SQSTM1/ p62 oligomerization contributes to AO-induced inhibition of Nrf2 signaling

SQSTM1/p62, also known as sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1) or p62, is an intracellular protein induced by stress and functions as an adaptor molecule in diverse cellular processes. Oxidative damage induced by overproduction of amyloid-beta (A beta) and the impairment of endogenous antioxidant Nrf2 signaling have been documented in the brains of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. The causes of the inactivation of Nrf2 signaling under A beta-induced oxidative stress are unclear, and p62 might be involved in this process. In this study, APP/PS1 transgenic mice, A beta intrahippocampal injection rat model, and SH-SY5Y cells were used to reveal that the alterations in the oligomeric state of p62 participated in the regulation of Nrf2 signaling under A beta insult. The present in vivo and in vitro studies revealed that short-term treatment of A beta activated Nrf2 signaling, while long-term A beta treatment inhibited it through either canonical or noncanonical Nrf2 activation pathway. p62 oligomerization was largely attenuated under long-term A beta treatment. The reduction of p62 oligomerization weakened p62 sequestration to Keap1, leading to Nrf2 signaling inhibition. Our findings provide a better understanding of p62-mediated modulation on Nrf2 activity and highlight a potential therapeutic target of p62 in AD. (c) 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study revealed that alterations in the oligomeric state of p62 participate in the regulation of Nrf2 signaling under A beta insult, affecting the activation or inhibition of Nrf2 signaling. Under long-term A beta treatment, p62 oligomerization is weakened, leading to reduced sequestration of p62 to Keap1 and subsequent inhibition of Nrf2 signaling.