What Happens To Your Brain In Alzheimer's Disease? 

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Globally, an estimated 44 million people are living with Alzheimer's and dementia and by 2050, the number of people age 65 or older with Alzheimer's dementia is projected to reach increase by 68 per cent and will be reported in low and middle-income countries.

The human brain contains billions of neurons that communicate through electrical and chemical signals. Alzheimer's disease disrupts this communication, leading to cell death.

In this article, we will look at the effects of Alzheimer's on the brain. Read on...

Neuron Structure and Function

Neurons have three main parts: a cell body, dendrites, and an axon. The cell body contains the nucleus, while dendrites collect information from other neurons. The axon transmits messages to other neurons.

Biological Processes for Neuron Health

Neurons rely on communication, metabolism, repair, remodeling, and regeneration for their function and survival. They constantly send signals to neighboring cells and require energy from oxygen and glucose for metabolism.

Role of Glial Cells

Glial cells outnumber neurons in the brain by about 10 to 1. They support neuronal function and protect them from damage. Microglia clear foreign substances while astrocytes help regulate brain balance.

Effects of Alzheimer's on the Brain

Alzheimer's disease causes widespread damage to neurons, disrupting processes like communication, metabolism, and repair. It initially affects memory-related areas before spreading throughout the brain.

Characteristics of the Alzheimer's Brain

Amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles are key features of the Alzheimer's brain. Beta-amyloid protein forms plaques between neurons, while tau proteins accumulate inside neurons as tangles.

Chronic Inflammation and Alzheimer's

Chronic inflammation may result from glial cell buildup that fails to clear waste and toxins, including beta-amyloid plaques. Abnormal genes like TREM2 contribute to plaque formation and inflammation.

Vascular Contributions to Alzheimer's

Vascular issues can coexist with Alzheimer's, affecting blood flow, oxygen supply, and the blood-brain barrier. This leads to inflammation and further damage to the brain.

Loss of Neuronal Connections in Alzheimer's

As neurons die, connections between networks break down, leading to brain atrophy. The loss of neuronal volume is a significant characteristic of advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

Resources for Information on Alzheimer's Disease

The NIA ADEAR Center provides information on dementia for families and professionals. Alzheimers.gov offers resources on Alzheimer’s from various government agencies.