Alzheimer'S Pathology

Alzheimer's disease is characterized by the accumulation of two main types of abnormal structures in the brain: amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Amyloid plaques are made up of beta-amyloid protein fragments that clump together between nerve cells, disrupting communication and triggering inflammation. Neurofibrillary tangles, on the other hand, are twisted fibers of tau protein that build up inside nerve cells, disrupting nutrient transport and cell function.

These pathological changes lead to the progressive degeneration of brain cells, particularly in areas crucial for memory, thinking, and eventually, basic bodily functions. The exact cause of Alzheimer's pathology remains unclear, but genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors likely play significant roles. Research continues to explore ways to detect, prevent, and treat these underlying mechanisms to ultimately slow down or halt the progression of this devastating disease.