Pyk2, synapses and Alzheimer's disease – ALZ-PYK

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most frequent neurodegenerative disease. Its burden on health and society is increasing and no treatment is validated. The study of genetic risk factors allows to identify pathways that may contribute to the pathophysiological process. This project focuses on the role of Pyk2, a non-receptor tyrosine kinase coded by a gene identified by Partner 2 as an AD risk factor. Partner 1 previously showed the importance of Pyk2 in synapse structure and plasticity. We shall join forces with physiologists (Partner 3) and protein chemists (Partner 4) to systematically explore the synaptic function of Pyk2, its role in the alteration and effects of two major proteins implicated in AD (Tau and beta-amyloid) and the consequences of manipulating Pyk2 on mouse models of AD. As a result of these studies combining multiple approaches we expect to precisely identify the role of Pyk2 in AD and determine whether it can be an interesting target for treatment.