What is plaque on the brain?

Plaque, or amyloid plaques, are abnormal clusters of proteins that form between nerve cells in the brain. They are a characteristic of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. Plaque is made up of a protein called beta-amyloid, which is produced by the breakdown of a larger protein called amyloid precursor protein (APP).

Plaques are thought to play a role in the development of Alzheimer's disease by disrupting communication between nerve cells and eventually leading to their death. They may also trigger inflammation and damage to the brain's blood vessels.

plaques are made up of many layers of beta-amyloid protein. The plaques can be from 20 to 200 microns in diameter. This is large enough to cause disruption in the brain. These plaques are often around blood vessels in the brain, and the smaller plaques are associated with blood vessels.

The presence of plaques is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, but they are not the only factor that contributes to the disease. Other factors, such as genetics, inflammation, and vascular disease, are also thought to play a role.

There are currently no treatments that can remove or prevent the formation of plaques, but there are some drugs that can help to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease and improve symptoms.