Abstract
Introduction The neurovascular unit (NVU), comprising vascular and glial cells along with neurons, is vital for maintaining the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and cerebral homeostasis. Dysfunction of the NVU is implicated in key neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Monomeric C-reactive protein (mCRP), the dissociated form of native, pentameric C-reactive protein (pCRP), is associated with enhanced pro-inflammatory responses in the vascular system, leading to increased permeability and potential NVU disruption. Methods This study utilized ApoE-/- mice receiving a high-fat diet which were injected intraperitoneally with either mCRP or mCRP together with a small molecule inhibitor (C10M) and investigated the deposition of mCRP and CD105 expression in the brain parenchyma and its localization within the microvasculature. Results Histological analysis revealed significant mCRP deposition in brain microvessels and neurons, indicating potential disruption of the BBB and neuronal damage. Moreover, co-administration of C10M effectively blocked mCRP accumulation in the brain parenchyma, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for effectively inhibiting inflammation-associated degenerative changes. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated co-localization of mCRP with CD105, indicating potential angiogenic activation and increased susceptibility to inflammatory insult. Discussion These findings provide evidence supporting the potential role of mCRP as a contributor to neuroinflammation in individuals with chronic systemic inflammation. Conclusion Further studies in human subjects should help validate the efficacy of C10M in preventing or halting neurodegeneration in conditions such as AD and stroke-associated dementia.