Decreased SREBP2 of the striatal cell relates to disrupted protein degradation in Huntington’s disease

Abstract

This study delineated the intricate relation between cholesterol metabolism, protein degradation mechanisms, and the pathogenesis of Huntington’s disease (HD). Through investigations using both animal models and cellular systems, we have observed significant alterations in cholesterol levels, particularly in the striatum, which is the primary lesion site in HD. Our findings indicate the dysregulation of cholesterol metabolism-related factors, such as LDLR and SREBP2, in HD, which may contribute to disease progression. Additionally, we uncovered disruptions in protein degradation pathways, including decreased neddylated proteins and dysregulated autophagy, which further exacerbated HD pathology. Moreover, our study highlighted the potential therapeutic implications of targeting these pathways. By restoring cholesterol levels and modulating protein degradation mechanisms, particularly through interventions, such as MLN4924, we observed potential improvements in cellular function, as indicated by the increased BDNF levels. These insights underscore the importance of simultaneously addressing cholesterol metabolism and protein degradation to alleviate HD pathology. Collectively, this study provides a basic understanding of the interplay between the decrease of SREBP2 and the dysfunctional protein degradation system derived from disrupted cholesterol metabolism in HD and HD cells.