Beyond Wolfram Syndrome 1: The Gene's Role in Alzheimer's Disease and Sleep Disorders.

The gene was first identified in Wolfram Syndrome 1 (WS1), a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized by severe and progressive neurodegenerative changes. 's role in various cellular mechanisms, particularly in calcium homeostasis and the modulation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, suggests its potential involvement in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and sleep disorders. Because it is involved in maintaining ER balance, calcium signaling, and stress responses, plays a multifaceted role in neuronal health. Numerous studies have shown that the absence or improper expression of disrupts these cellular processes, leading to neurodegeneration and making neurons more vulnerable. In AD, dysfunction is thought to contribute to the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques and tau tangles, thereby accelerating disease progression. Additionally, plays an essential role in sleep regulation by influencing neuronal excitability and neurotransmitter release, which may explain the sleep disturbances frequently observed in neurodegenerative diseases. Due to its involvement in the pathological mechanisms of AD and sleep disorders, is regarded as a potential early diagnostic marker for these diseases. Further research is required to fully elucidate 's role in the cellular pathway, perhaps facilitating the development of new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease and sleep disorders.