amyloid beta precursor protein

Normal function

The APP gene provides instructions for making a protein called amyloid precursor protein. This protein is found in many tissues and organs, including the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). Little is known about the function of amyloid precursor protein. Researchers speculate that it may bind to other proteins on the surface of cells or help cells attach to one another. Studies suggest that in the brain, it helps direct the movement (migration) of nerve cells (neurons) during early development.

Amyloid precursor protein is cut by enzymes to create smaller fragments (peptides), some of which are released outside the cell. Two of these fragments are called soluble amyloid precursor protein (sAPP) and amyloid beta (β) peptide. Recent evidence suggests that sAPP has growth-promoting properties and may play a role in the formation of neurons in the brain both before and after birth. The sAPP peptide may also control the function of certain other proteins by turning off (inhibiting) their activity. Amyloid β peptide is likely involved in the ability of neurons to change and adapt over time (plasticity). Other functions of sAPP and amyloid β peptide are under investigation.

Conditions referring to this gene or chromosome

• Alzheimer disease

• Hereditary cerebral amyloid angiopathy

Other names

A4_HUMAN

AAA

ABETA

ABPP

AD1

amyloid beta (A4) precursor protein

amyloid beta-peptide

amyloid beta-protein precursor

amyloid precursor protein

APPI

cerebral vascular amyloid peptide

CVAP

PN-II

PN2

protease nexin 2

protease nexin-II