Expressing miR-282 mitigates Aβ42-induced neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's model in Drosophila

Alzheimer's disease is a complex neurodegenerative condition characterized by the accumulation of amyloid beta plaques, leading to memory loss, cognitive decline, and impaired autonomous behavior. Despite extensive research, an effective treatment remains elusive. The buildup of amyloid beta plaques (Aβ42) in the brain causes oxidative stress and disrupts normal molecular signaling, adversely affecting neuron function. Previous research has identified factors that can either exacerbate or mitigate neurodegenerative diseases. Our study aimed to uncover new factors involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Using Drosophila as a model organism, we employed the Gal4/UAS system to express human Aβ42 in the flies' retinal neurons which led to neurodegenerative changes in their compound eyes. To identify genetic modifiers, we conducted a screen by co-expressing microRNAs and found that miR-282 acts as a suppressor. Overexpressing miR-282 in the GMR > Aβ42 background reduced Aβ42-induced neurodegeneration. Further analysis using prediction tools and RNA interference experiments identified three potential downstream targets of miR-282: calpain-B, knot, and scabrous. Downregulating these genes via RNA interference in the GMR > Aβ42 background mitigated neurodegeneration. Our research highlights miR-282 as a novel molecule that may influence the progression of Alzheimer's disease, offering potential avenues for future therapeutic or diagnostic developments.