The rs140668532 SNP in GSK-3β gene as a potential biomarker for Alzheimer’s disease: Insights from computational modeling

Glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β) is well recognized for its role in diverse physiological processes, including apoptosis, mitochondrial function, and gene transcription regulation. The precise regulation of GSK-3β activity is critical for maintaining neuronal health, and dysregulation may result in disturbances in neurological functions. Polymorphisms in the GSK-3β gene may increase susceptibility to neurodegenerative disorders. To assess the structural and functional consequences of deleterious SNPs in GSK-3β, various in silico approaches was utilized. Analysis identified 27 deleterious SNPs in the GSK-3β gene, among which 10 were classified as damaging by SIFT, PolyPhen-2, and MutPred2. The Project Hope software simulated ten harmful mutations in the GSK-3β gene. The pathways associated with neurodegeneration involving the GSK-3β gene and its interacting genes were identified through the KEGG and GeneMANIA databases, respectively. The V317F mutation was shown to reduce GSK-3β inhibition by highly selective inhibitory ligand PF04802367 (PF-367) and impair the GSK-3β-Tau interaction. The influence of GSK3β on Aβ formation suggests that the V317F mutation has a tau-independent neurodegenerative impact. The experimental investigation of the V317F mutant GSK-3β's effect on neurodegeneration may enhance the understanding of the biomarker potential of rs140668532 in Alzheimer's disease.