However, the exact role of these structures is not known, and it remains unclear if they cause the disease or if they are a byproduct. What’s the DifferenceĪmyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles are unique structures in the brain tissue that are suspected to be involved in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease. This reduces the stability of the microtubule support to the neurons and can lead to the formation of tau threads and then paired helical filaments, which can then become tangled inside the cell.Īs a result of this, the internal transport network of the neurons collapses and inhibits the ability of the neurons to work together. The tau protein threads with some phosphate molecules usually bind to the microtubules, helping to stabilize them.įor individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, there is a larger number of phosphate molecules bound to the tau protein than normal, known as hyperphosphorylation. They involve the twisting of tau protein threads of the nerve cells in the brain tissue.įor healthy individuals, microtubules are structures found in the nervous system that provide support to the neurons and assist in the transportation of nutrients and vesicles. Neurofibrillary tangles are another hallmark characteristic of the brain tissue associated with Alzheimer’s disease. However, there is some evidence to support the suggestion that some genetic mutations lead to an increase in beta-amyloid production, responsible for causing some forms of Alzheimer’s disease. It is evident that they are more prevalent in individuals with the disease, but it is unclear if they cause or are a by-product of the disease. The exact role of amyloid plaques in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease is not well understood. The hippocampus is important for the processing of memories from short-term to long-term and damages in this area of the brain is associated with symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. There are some regions of the brain that are particularly prone to the development of the plaques, such as in the hippocampus. Over time, some individuals develop amyloid plaques in the central nervous system as they age. Compilation of the top interviews, articles, and news in the last year.