Synaptic scaffold protein PSD-95: a therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder marked by gradual cognitive deterioration and distinct neuropathological characteristics. The abnormal accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) are the hallmarks of AD. In fact, synaptic loss and damage occur earlier than amyloid plaques and NFTs in the progression of AD and are most closely associated with the cognitive deficits exhibited by AD patients. In this review, we discuss the expression level, localization, posttranslational modification and interaction proteins of PSD-95, as well as their roles in synaptic plastisity. We also review the mechanisms through which PSD-95 contributes to synaptic dysfunction in AD. Moreover, the potential of PSD-95 as an early biomarker for AD is also discussed, along with the therapeutic approaches that target PSD-95 for patients afflicted with the disease. The objective of this review is to offer comprehensive insights into the early pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease and to aid in the development of novel diagnostic and treatment methodologies grounded in this understanding.