Dysregulation of protein kinase A signaling in the aged prefrontal cortex: New strategy for treating age-related cognitive decline

Brian P. Ramos, Shari G. Birnbaum, Isabelle Lindenmayer, Samuel S. Newton, Ronald S. Duman, Amy F T Arnsten

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

209 Scopus citations

Abstract

Activation of the cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) pathway has been proposed as a mechanism for improving age-related cognitive deficits based on studies of hippocampal function. However, normal aging also afflicts prefrontal cortical cognitive functioning. Here, we report that agents that increase PKA activity impair rather than improve prefrontal cortical function in aged rats and monkeys with prefrontal cortical deficits. Conversely, PKA inhibition ameliorates prefrontal cortical cognitive deficits. Western blot and immunohistochemical analyses of rat brain further indicate that the cAMP/PKA pathway becomes disinhibited in the prefrontal cortex with advancing age. These data demonstrate that PKA inhibition, rather than activation, is the appropriate strategy for restoring prefrontal cortical cognitive abilities in the elderly.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)835-845
Number of pages11
JournalNeuron
Volume40
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 13 2003

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience

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