Unraveling the mystery of citrate transporters in Alzheimer’s disease: An updated review

Abstract

A key molecule in cellular metabolism, citrate is essential for lipid biosynthesis, energy production, and epigenetic control. The etiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), a progressive neurodegenerative illness marked by memory loss and cognitive decline, may be linked to dysregulated citrate transport, according to recent research. Citrate transporters, which help citrate flow both inside and outside of cells, are becoming more and more recognized as possible participants in the molecular processes underlying AD. Citrate synthase (CS), a key enzyme in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, supports mitochondrial function and neurotransmitter synthesis, particularly acetylcholine (ACh), essential for cognition. Changes in CS activity affect citrate availability, influencing energy metabolism and neurotransmitter production. Choline, a precursor for ACh, is crucial for neuronal function. Lipid metabolism, oxidative stress reactions, and mitochondrial function can all be affected by aberrant citrate transport, and these changes are linked to dementia. Furthermore, the two main pathogenic characteristics of AD, tau hyperphosphorylation and amyloid-beta (Aβ) aggregation, may be impacted by disturbances in citrate homeostasis. The goal of this review is to clarify the complex function of citrate transporters in AD and provide insight into how they contribute to the development and course of the illness. We aim to provide an in-depth idea of which particular transporters are dysregulated in AD and clarify the functional implications of these dysregulated transporters in brain cells. To reduce neurodegenerative processes and restore metabolic equilibrium, we have also discussed the therapeutic potential of regulating citrate transport. Gaining insight into the relationship between citrate transporters and the pathogenesis of AD may help identify new indicators for early detection and creative targets for treatment. This study offers hope for more potent ways to fight this debilitating illness and is a crucial step in understanding the metabolic foundations of AD.