SENILE PLAQUE Meaning and
Definition
-
Senile plaque refers to an abnormal deposit of proteinaceous material that forms in the brain tissue of individuals affected by neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease. It is a defining characteristic of the neuropathology associated with the condition. Senile plaques consist mainly of a protein called beta-amyloid, along with other molecules like proteins, lipids, and cellular debris. These substances accumulate in and around the brain cells, especially in areas that are crucial for memory and cognitive functioning.
The formation of senile plaques is believed to be a result of an imbalance between the production and clearance of beta-amyloid in the brain. Beta-amyloid is a fragment of a larger protein called amyloid precursor protein (APP). In healthy individuals, this protein is efficiently broken down and eliminated, preventing its accumulation and subsequent plaque formation. However, in Alzheimer's disease, beta-amyloid production is increased or its clearance is impaired, leading to its accumulation and the formation of senile plaques.
These plaques are considered a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease and are often found alongside another characteristic brain abnormality called neurofibrillary tangles. Together, these structures contribute to the progressive cognitive decline and memory impairment seen in affected individuals. Research is ongoing to better understand the role of senile plaques in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis and to develop potential therapies targeting the amyloid cascade.
In summary, senile plaque is an abnormal deposition of beta-amyloid protein and other substances in the brain tissue, particularly associated with Alzheimer's disease. These plaques disrupt normal brain functioning and contribute to the cognitive decline and memory impairment observed in affected individuals.
Common Misspellings for SENILE PLAQUE
- aenile plaque
- zenile plaque
- xenile plaque
- denile plaque
- eenile plaque
- wenile plaque
- swnile plaque
- ssnile plaque
- sdnile plaque
- srnile plaque
- s4nile plaque
- s3nile plaque
- sebile plaque
- semile plaque
- sejile plaque
- sehile plaque
- senule plaque
- senjle plaque
- senkle plaque
- senole plaque
Etymology of SENILE PLAQUE
The word "senile plaque" is derived from two sources:
1. Senile: The term "senile" comes from the Latin word "senilis", which means "pertaining to old age". In English, "senile" is used to describe conditions or characteristics associated with old age, such as physical or mental deterioration. In the context of senile plaque, it refers to the fact that these plaques are most commonly found in the brains of elderly individuals.
2. Plaque: The word "plaque" is derived from the Latin word "placca", which means "flat, thin plate". In the medical field, "plaque" generally refers to an abnormal accumulation of substances, such as proteins, lipids, or other materials, that form deposits on or within various tissues or organs.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
