Many neurodegenerative conditions are characterized by the aggregation of altered proteins, such amyloid-β, α-synuclein, tau, and others. Once altered they can form solid deposits with a halo of surrounding biochemistry that is toxic and disruptive to the normal function of cells in the brain. Why do these protein aggregates only become significant in later life? There is some pace at which they are created, and some pace at which they are cleared by various mechanisms. For example, amyloid-β is an antimicrobial peptide, a component of the innate immune system. M…
The Importance of the Glymphatic System in Clearing Metabolic Waste from the Brain
Many neurodegenerative conditions are characterized by the aggregation of altered proteins, such amyloid-β, α-synuclein, tau, and others. Once altered they can form solid deposits with a halo of surrounding biochemistry that is toxic and disruptive to the normal function of cells in the brain. Why do these protein aggregates only become significant in later life? There is some pace at which they are created, and some pace at which they are cleared by various mechanisms. For example, amyloid-β is an antimicrobial peptide, a component of the innate immune system. M…