amyloid cascade theory

The amyloid cascade theory suggests that Alzheimer’s disease begins when abnormal proteins called amyloid-beta accumulate in the brain, forming sticky plaques. These plaques disrupt normal cell function and trigger a chain reaction, leading to nerve cell damage and death. As this process progresses, it causes memory loss, confusion, and other cognitive problems characteristic of Alzheimer’s. The theory posits that these amyloid plaques play a central role in starting and driving the disease, making them a key focus for research and potential treatments aimed at preventing or reducing their buildup.