
Aβ plaques
Aβ plaques, or amyloid-beta plaques, are clumps of protein that accumulate in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. They form when fragments of a protein called amyloid-beta stick together and create sticky deposits. These plaques disrupt communication between brain cells and trigger inflammation, contributing to the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's. Scientists study Aβ plaques to understand their role in the progression of the disease and to explore potential treatments that can target or reduce these harmful buildups in the brain.