A new mechanism of toxicity in Alzheimer’s disease revealed by the 3-D structure of protein

A new mechanism of toxicity in Alzheimer's disease revealed by the 3D structure of Aβ protein
The amyloid precursor protein (APP) is inserted into the cell membrane of neurons. After sequential cleavage by β- and ?-secretases, the Aβ protein (in green) is released.The membrane oligomers are formed by 4 or 8 copies of the Aβ protein. The physicochemical properties of the edges of these oligomers form a path for passage of water and ions (in red) through the membrane, thus disrupting ion cell homeostasis. Credit: Benjamin Bardiaux.

The brains of people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are slowly and inescapably being depleted of neurons, which leads to the characteristic loss of memory and cognitive function associated with this condition. However, the cause of neuronal death is still unknown. The treatments available are aimed at slowing down the development of dementia and only help to improve quality of life…

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