AMYLOID PLAQUE Meaning and
Definition
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Amyloid plaque refers to an abnormal accumulation of insoluble proteins known as amyloid in the interstitial spaces of the brain, commonly associated with various neurodegenerative disorders. The term "amyloid" pertains to a specific type of protein that undergoes misfolding, forming insoluble fibers or fibrils, which then aggregate into plaques. These plaques primarily consist of β-amyloid peptides, derived from a larger precursor protein called amyloid precursor protein (APP).
The formation of amyloid plaques is a significant pathological hallmark observed in conditions like Alzheimer's disease, where extensive buildup of β-amyloid plaques occurs within the brain tissue. These plaques progressively accumulate in regions responsible for memory and cognition, leading to the disruption of normal brain function. They can also trigger immune responses and inflammation, further exacerbating neurotoxicity.
Amyloid plaques are composed of dense clusters of β-amyloid peptides, which can vary from a few nanometers to several micrometers in size. These plaques tend to distort the surrounding brain tissue, interfering with neuronal communication and accelerating neuronal damage. Additionally, amyloid plaques may induce the formation of neurofibrillary tangles, another hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, which consists of abnormal aggregates of a protein called tau.
Detecting and quantifying amyloid plaques can aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of neurodegenerative disorders, providing insights into the progression and severity of the disease. Different imaging techniques, such as positron emission tomography (PET) scans, can help visualize and measure the presence of amyloid plaques in the brain. Targeting and reducing amyloid plaque formation is a key focus of research and drug development to combat neurodegenerative diseases.
Common Misspellings for AMYLOID PLAQUE
- zmyloid plaque
- smyloid plaque
- wmyloid plaque
- qmyloid plaque
- anyloid plaque
- akyloid plaque
- ajyloid plaque
- amtloid plaque
- amgloid plaque
- amhloid plaque
- amuloid plaque
- am7loid plaque
- am6loid plaque
- amykoid plaque
- amypoid plaque
- amyooid plaque
- amyliid plaque
- amylkid plaque
- amyllid plaque
Etymology of AMYLOID PLAQUE
The word "amyloid" originates from the Greek word "amylon", meaning "starch" or "amylum". It was first used to describe a type of substance that resembles starch and accumulates in various tissues of the body. The term "amyloid" was coined by the German pathologist, Rudolf Virchow, in 1854.
The word "plaque" comes from the Latin word "placca", meaning "plate". In the context of medicine, "plaque" refers to a usually thickened, hardened, or inelastic patch on a tissue or organ.
Therefore, the term "amyloid plaque" refers to the abnormal accumulation of amyloid proteins in tissues, typically seen in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. These plaques are composed of insoluble amyloid-beta peptides and other molecules, forming deposits between nerve cells in the brain.
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