Role of Fractalkine (CX3CL1) in Regulating Neuron-Microglia Interactions: Development of Viral-Based CX3CR1 Antagonists

Blocking the effects of fractalkine therapeutically may regulate microglia cell activation and provide neuroprotection in the AD brain. A human herpesvirus 8-encoded chemokine, termed vMIP-II is a non-selective chemokine receptor antagonist (binding multiple chemokine receptors, including CX3CR1). By comparing vMIP-II and FKN, we have generated molecules that selectively antagonize CX3CR1 activation. The results from these studies will guide future development of therapeutic agents designed to modulate microglial activation with the goal of preventing or slowing the progression of AD.