ERBB4 molecular switch linked to various Alzheimer's pathologies

Researchers at the Institute for Basic Science (IBS) have identified a molecular switch called ERBB4 that may drive a wide range of Alzheimer's disease pathologies. Led by Associate Director Chung Won-Suk, the team discovered that the aberrant expression of ERBB4 in excitatory neurons acts as an early driver of the disease.

While ERBB4 is typically associated with inhibitory neurons, its appearance in excitatory neurons can trigger a destructive chain reaction. This process includes neuronal hyperactivity, abnormal loss of synapses, reactive gliosis, increased amyloid accumulation, and cognitive impairment. The findings suggest that the various abnormalities seen in Alzheimer's—such as the disruption of brain circuits and the activation of glial cells—may be orchestrated by this misplaced molecular signal.