Unlock the Impact of Immune Protein on Neuronal Protein Synthesis

Impact of Immune Protein on Neuronal Protein Synthesis

A recent study conducted by Beth Stevens , PhD at Boston Children 's Hospital has revealed that an immune protein , C1q , plays a significant role in neuronal protein synthesis in the aging brain . This groundbreaking research led by Nicole Scott - Hewitt and published in Cell , showed that neurons can internalize C1q , impacting protein production within the cells . The accumulation of C1q in neurons over time indicates its potential involvement in age - related cognitive changes and neurodegenerative conditions.

Key Findings from the Study

The study , titled " Microglial C1q accumulates in neuronal ribonucleoprotein ( RNP ) complexes across aging , " highlighted several key findings . In adult mice lacking the C1q protein , there was a notable increase in protein production within neurons , leading to a shift in the balance of proteins in the brain . This suggests that C1q plays a crucial role in regulating protein levels in the aging brain , with specific changes observed in adult mice compared to younger ones.

Neurons have the ability to uptake C1q protein from their surroundings through a process called endocytosis , where cells internalize molecules . The study emphasized the importance of a specific domain of C1q , known as the collagen - like domain , in facilitating this uptake by neurons.

The absence of C1q in microglia in adult mice had a significant impact on their ability to forget fear memories , indicating the protein 's role in learning and memory processes . This suggests that C1q plays a vital role in memory and brain flexibility by interacting with specific neuronal complexes that influence protein production within neurons.

C1q 's Influence on Aging Brain Functions

Previous research has shown an increase in C1q levels in the aging brain , raising questions about its functions in the context of aging . While C1q is known for its roles in brain development and disease , its specific functions in the aging brain were previously unclear . This study revealed that C1q interacts with RNA - binding proteins in aging brains , highlighting its presence inside neurons in older brains . This unexpected discovery indicates that immune proteins produced by brain macrophages , such as microglia , can impact internal neuronal functions.

Moreover , the study investigated the effects of C1q depletion on protein production and memory in aging brains . The results showed an increase in protein production in neurons of adult mice lacking C1q , impacting their ability to forget fearful experiences . This underscores the unique role of C1q in the adult brain , distinct from its known functions in synapse pruning.