Intensity-dependent Gamma Electrical Stimulation Regulates Microglial Activation, Reduces Beta-amyloid Load, and Facilitates Memory in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Overview

Journal Cell Biosci

Publisher Biomed Central

Specialty Biology

Date 2023 Jul 28

PMID 37507776

Authors

Qian Liu

Adam Contreras

Muhammad Shan Afaq

Weijian Yang

Daniel K Hsu

Michael Russell

Bruce Lyeth

Theodore P Zanto

Min Zhao

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: Gamma sensory stimulation may reduce AD-specific pathology. Yet, the efficacy of alternating electrical current stimulation in animal models of AD is unknown, and prior research has not addressed intensity-dependent effects.

Methods: The intensity-dependent effect of gamma electrical stimulation (GES) with a sinusoidal alternating current at 40 Hz on Aβ clearance and microglia modulation were assessed in 5xFAD mouse hippocampus and cortex, as well as the behavioral performance of the animals with the Morris Water Maze.

Results: One hour of epidural GES delivered over a month significantly (1) reduced Aβ load in the AD brain, (2) increased microglia cell counts, decreased cell body size, increased length of cellular processes of the Iba1 + cells, and (3) improved behavioral performance (learning & memory). All these effects were most pronounced when a higher stimulation current was applied.

Conclusion: The efficacy of GES on the reduction of AD pathology and the intensity-dependent feature provide guidance for the development of this promising therapeutic approach.

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