Abstract: Amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing which is activated by cell-surface neurotransmitter receptors, is described. An assay for testing an agent for the capacity to regulate, and particularly to stimulate, secretion of amyloid precursor protein (APP), a description of the characteristics of agents identified by the assay, and a method of altering APP processing in an individual are also disclosed. The assay, agents, and method of altering APP processing are particularly useful for the treatment and prevention of diseases involving APP processing, such as Alzheimer's disease.

Abstract: Stimulating non-amyloidogenic processing by the activation of cell surface serotonin receptors linked to phospholipase and protein kinase C is described. Activation of the cell surface serotonin receptors is accomplished by contacting the cell with an agent which is a serotonin agonist or which increases the intrasynaptic concentration of serotonin. Also described is the activation of cell surface serotonin receptors by dexnorfenfluramine. Agents which cause the activation of cell surface serotonin receptors can be administered to an individual to stimulate non-amyloidogenic processing in the brain of the individual, thereby inhibiting the deposition of amyloid in the brain of the individual.

Abstract: An antemortem diagnostic test for neurodegenerative disease, particularly Alzheimer's disease, is disclosed. The method of the invention involves the collection of a sample of bodily fluid; the analysis of the concentration of neuronal membrane phospholipids and phospholipid metabolites, or the ratio of a phospholipid to its metabolite, in the sample; and the correlation of the concentration or the ratio to the corresponding value from control samples. The method can be used to determine the presence or the possibility that an individual can develop a neurodegenerative disease, such as Alzheimer's disease; to follow the course of neurodegenerative disease in an individual; and to validate the efficacy of a drug used to treat a neurodegenerative disease.

Abstract: An antemortem diagnostic test for neurodegenerative disease, particularly Alzheimer's disease, involves the collection of a sample of bodily fluid; the analysis of the concentration of neuronal membrane phospholipids and phospholipid metabolites, or the ratio of a phospholipid to its metabolite, in the sample; and the correlation of the concentration or the ratio to the corresponding value from control samples. The method can be used to determine the presence or the possibility that an individual can develop a neurodegenerative disease, such as Alzheimer's disease; to follow the course of neurodegenerative disease in an individual; and to validate the efficacy of a drug used to treat a neurodegenerative disease.