Leptin-Sensitive JAK2 Activation in the Regulation of Tau Phosphorylation in PC12 Cells.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by two major hallmarks: the deposition and accumulation of β-amyloid (Aβ) peptide and hyperphosphorylated tau in intracellular neurofibrillary tangles. Sets of evidence show that leptin reduces Aβ production and tau phosphorylation. Herein, we investigated the signaling pathways activated by leptin, to extensively understand its mechanism.

METHODS: Western blotting was employed to assess the protein abundance of p-tau and BAX, MTT assay to decipher the cells viability.

RESULTS: Leptin decreased tau phosphorylation, an effect was dependent on the activation of JAK2.

CONCLUSION: The data suggest that JAK2 is involved in AD-related pathways.