PRAS40 alleviates neurotoxic prion peptide-induced apoptosis via mTOR-AKT signaling

SummaryAims The proline-rich Akt substrate of 40-kDa (PRAS40) protein is a direct inhibitor of mTORC1 and an interactive linker between the Akt and mTOR pathways. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is considered to be a central regulator of cell growth and metabolism. Several investigations have demonstrated that abnormal mTOR activity may contribute to the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative disorders and lead to cognitive deficits. Methods Here, we used the PrP peptide 106-126 (PrP106-126) in a cell model of prion diseases (also known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, TSEs) to investigate the mechanisms of mTOR-mediated cell death in prion diseases. Results We have shown that, upon stress caused by PrP106-126, the mTOR pathway activates and contributes to cellular apoptosis. Moreover, we demonstrated that PRAS40 down-regulates mTOR hyperactivity under stress conditions and alleviates neurotoxic prion peptide-induced apoptosis. The effect of PRAS40 on apoptosis is likely due to an mTOR/Akt signaling. Conclusion PRAS40 inhibits mTORC1 hyperactivation and plays a key role in protecting cells against neurotoxic prion peptide-induced apoptosis. Thus, PRAS40 is a potential therapeutic target for prion disease.