Post-translational regulation of the β-secretase BACE1

• BACE1 is considered a viable therapeutic target for Alzheimer’s disease.
• The post-translational regulation of BACE1 is closely associated with both physiological and pathological conditions.
• Recent studies have revealed several mechanisms underlying such BACE1 regulation.
• The significance of BACE1 modulation is highlighted from pathogenetic and therapeutic viewpoints.

β-Secretase, widely known as β-site APP cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), is a membrane-associated protease that cleaves amyloid precursor protein (APP) to generate amyloid β-protein (Aβ). As this cleavage is a pathologically relevant event in Alzheimer’s disease, BACE1 is considered a viable therapeutic target. BACE1 can be regulated at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, translational, and post-translational levels. Elucidation of the regulatory pathways of BACE1 is critical, not only for understanding the pathological mechanisms of AD but also developing effective therapeutic strategies to inhibit activity of the protease. This mini-review focuses on the post-translational regulation of BACE1, as modulation at this level is closely associated with both physiological and pathological conditions. Current knowledge on the mechanisms underlying such BACE1 regulation and their implications for therapy are discussed.