sb-258585 and Cognition-Disorders

Growing evidence suggests that a compromised serotonergic system plays an important role in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We assessed the expression of 5-HT(1B/1D) and 5-HT(6) receptors and cholinacetyltransferase (ChAT) activity in post-mortem frontal and temporal cortex from AD patients who had been prospectively assessed for cognitive function using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and behavioral changes using the Present Behavioral Examination (PBE). 5-HT(1B/1D) and 5-HT(6) receptor densities were significantly reduced in both cortical areas. 5-HT(1B/1D) receptor density was correlated to MMSE decline in the frontal cortex, supporting its implication in memory impairment. The best predictor for lowered 5-HT(6) receptor density in the temporal cortex was the PBE measure of overactivity. The 5-HT(6)/ChAT ratio was related to aggression both in the frontal and temporal cortex. Therefore, antagonists acting at 5-HT(6) receptors could be useful in the treatment of non-cognitive symptoms associated to AD.

Topics: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Alzheimer Disease; Benzamides; Binding Sites; Choline O-Acetyltransferase; Cognition Disorders; Female; Frontal Lobe; Humans; Isotopes; Male; Memory Disorders; Mental Status Schedule; Neuropsychological Tests; Piperazines; Pyridines; Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT1B; Receptors, Serotonin; Serotonin Antagonists; Serotonin Receptor Agonists; Statistics as Topic; Sulfonamides; Temporal Lobe