Silencing NRBP1 Gene with shRNA Improves Cognitive Function and Pathological Features in AD Rat Model.

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative condition in the elderly, characterized by complex pathogenesis, and a current absence of specific treatment. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of silencing the NRBP1 gene using siRNA technology to improve cognitive function and pathological features in an AD rat model. An AD rat model was induced by intraperitoneal injections of D-galactose and oral AlCl₃ administration over 90 days, thus replicating early-stage AD pathology. The rats were randomly assigned to the Blank control (Blank), AD model (AD), AD model + shRNA negative control (AD + Neg), and AD model + NRBP1-shRNA groups (AD + shRNA), initiating experiments at 30, 60, and 90 days.Cognitive function was assessed through the Morris water maze test, revealing that rats in the AD + shRNA group showed significantly reduced latency, swim time, swim distance, and crossing times compared to the AD and AD + Neg groups (P < 0.05), with no significant difference from the Blank group. Thioflavin-S fluorescence staining demonstrated a significant reduction in the number, average area, and burden of plaques in the hippocampal tissue of the AD + shRNA group compared to the AD and AD + Neg groups (P < 0.05). ELISA assays confirmed a notable decrease in Aβ1-42 levels in the hippocampal tissue of the AD + shRNA group compared to the AD and AD + Neg groups (P < 0.05). Fluorescence quantitative PCR analysis revealed a significant downregulation of NRBP1 gene expression in the hippocampal tissue of the AD + shRNA group (P < 0.05).In conclusion, using siRNA to silence the NRBP1 gene demonstrates potential in enhancing cognitive function and reducing pathological features in an AD rat model. This provides preliminary evidence that justifies further investigation into its mechanistic and therapeutic implications.