LilrB2/PirB -A novel receptor for Aβ oligomers

Researchers in Dr. Shatz's lab have identified murine PirB and its human ortholog LilrB2 as receptors for β-amyloid (Aβ) oligomers. Aβ oligomers play a central role in a number of pathologies. They are thought to be mediators of cognitive dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease (AD) as well as Down syndrome (DS). Currently there are no effective therapies for arresting or reversing the cognitive impairment associated with these diseases and new therapeutics are needed. The inventors' findings provide a new avenue for therapeutic development for AD and other amyloidopathies including DS.

Stage of research
The inventors have identified LilrB2/PirB as receptors for Aβ oligomers and have identified the domains of LilrB2/PirB that mediate interaction with Aβ oligomers. Also included with this technology are PirB/LilrB2 peptides that can inhibit Aβ oligomer binding to PirB/LilrB2. In addition, using mouse models of AD, they identified signaling mediators downstream of the receptors and showed that Aβ oligomer activation of LilrB2/PirB sets in motion synaptic destruction.