Gosset Molecular Classification
Peptide, Amyloid
Other Names
Amyloid-beta 1-40, Abeta40, AB40
Disease Roles
Amyloid-beta peptide 40 Overview
Amyloid-beta peptide 40 (Aβ40) is a 40-amino acid peptide derived from the amyloid precursor protein (APP). It is a major component of amyloid plaques found in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. While Aβ40 has some physiological roles related to APP, its aggregation is closely linked to neurotoxicity and disease pathology, making it a therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease.
Mechanism of Action
Antibodies targeting amyloid-beta aggregates promote clearance of plaques; other mechanisms under investigation focus on inhibiting amyloid formation or promoting disaggregation.
Biological Functions
Cell adhesion (via APP)
Neuronal mobility regulation (via APP)
Aggregation
Neurotoxicity (when aggregated)
Disease Associations
Alzheimer's disease
Cerebral amyloid angiopathy
Safety Considerations
- Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities (ARIA) with anti-amyloid antibodies
- Potential for off-target effects due to APP's other functions
- Optimal timing of intervention remains unclear
Interacting Drugs
Aducanumab
Lecanemab
Donanemab
Associated Biomarkers
| Biomarker |
|---|
| Cerebrospinal fluid Aβ40 levels |
| Plasma Aβ40 levels |
| Amyloid PET imaging |