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Arsenic and Tau Phosphorylation: a Mechanistic Review

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Abstract

Arsenic poisoning can affect the peripheral nervous system and cause peripheral neuropathy. Despite different studies on the mechanism of intoxication, the complete process is not explained yet, which can prevent further intoxication and produce effective treatment. In the following paper, we would like to consider the idea that arsenic might cause some diseases via inflammation induction, and tauopathy in neurons. Tau protein, one of the microtubule-associated proteins expressed in neurons, contributes to neuronal microtubules structure. Arsenic may be involved in cellular cascades involved in modulating tau function or hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, which ultimately leads to nerve destruction. For proof of this assumption, some investigations have been planned to measure the association between arsenic and quantities of phosphorylation of tau protein. Additionally, some researchers have investigated the association between microtubule trafficking in neurons and the levels of tau protein phosphorylation. It should be noticed that changing tau phosphorylation in arsenic toxicity may add a new feature to understanding the mechanism of poisonousness and aid in discovering novel therapeutic candidates such as tau phosphorylation inhibitors for drug development.

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  1. Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran

    Saba Ariafar, Sajjad Makhdoomi & Mojdeh Mohammadi

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  1. Saba Ariafar
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  2. Sajjad Makhdoomi
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SA participated and was involved in drafting of the manuscript. SM was involved in helping to revise the manuscript and final check of the draft. MM, the supervisor of the study, was involved in the concept, design, drafting, and final checking of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

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Ariafar, S., Makhdoomi, S. & Mohammadi, M. Arsenic and Tau Phosphorylation: a Mechanistic Review. Biol Trace Elem Res 201, 5708–5720 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12011-023-03634-y

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