Affiliations: Center for Neuroscience Discovery, Institute for Healthy Aging, University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Fort Worth, TX, USA
Correspondence:
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Correspondence to: Eric B. Gonzales or Nathalie Sumien, Center for Neuroscience Discovery, Institute for Healthy Aging, UNT Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA. Tel.: +1 817/735 2755 or 2389; E-mails: [email protected] (E.B. Gonzales); [email protected] (N. Sumien).
Abstract: Alzheimer’s disease prevalence has reached epidemic proportion with very few treatment options, which are associated with a multitude of side effects. A potential avenue of research for new therapies are protons, and their associated receptor: acid-sensing ion channels (ASIC). Protons are often overlooked neurotransmitters, and proton-gated currents have been identified in the brain. Furthermore, ASICs have been determined to be crucial for proper brain function. While there is more work to be done, this review is intended to highlight protons as neurotransmitters and their role along with the role of ASICs within physiological functioning of the brain. We will also cover the pathophysiological associations between ASICs and modulators of ASICs. Finally, this review will sum up how the studies of protons, ASICs and their modulators may generate new therapeutic molecules for Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases.
