Convergence of Synapses, Endosomes, and Prions in the Biology of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Figure 1

Schema of synaptic biology relating to Alzheimer’s disease. APP is present in endosomes, including early and late/MVB endosomes, as well as at the cell surface. A𝛽 is associated with MVBs and other endosomes, as well as being secreted from the cell surface, also via exosomes. The relative proportions of A𝛽 peptides and APP processing in the pre- versus postsynapse remain uncertain. The cellular mechanism(s) of A𝛽 transmission from or to the pre- and postsynapse is also not yet clear. MVB: multivesicular body; EE: early endosome; SV: synaptic vesicle.