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How can neurofibrillary tangles affect brain function?

Neurofibrillary tangles are abnormal twisted fibers that form inside the brain cells, specifically in neurons. They are primarily composed of a protein called tau, which is essential for maintaining the structure and stability of neurons. However, in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, tau proteins become hyperphosphorylated and clump together, forming neurofibrillary tangles.

The presence of neurofibrillary tangles can have a significant impact on brain function. Here are some ways in which they can affect the brain:

1. Disruption of neuronal communication: Neurofibrillary tangles can interfere with the normal functioning of neurons, disrupting the transmission of signals between brain cells. This disruption can lead to impaired communication within neural networks, affecting various cognitive processes such as memory, attention, and problem-solving.

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2. Neuronal death: As neurofibrillary tangles accumulate, they can cause damage to neurons and eventually lead to their death. This neuronal loss can result in the shrinking of brain regions and the overall reduction in brain volume. The death of neurons further exacerbates the cognitive decline associated with neurodegenerative diseases.

3. Impaired synaptic function: Synapses are the connections between neurons where information is transmitted. Neurofibrillary tangles can disrupt the normal functioning of synapses, impairing synaptic transmission and reducing the efficiency of communication between neurons. This can contribute to cognitive impairment and decline in brain function.

4. Inflammation and oxidative stress: The presence of neurofibrillary tangles triggers an inflammatory response in the brain, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory molecules. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress can further damage neurons and contribute to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

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5. Formation of other pathological structures: Neurofibrillary tangles are often accompanied by other pathological structures, such as amyloid plaques, which are another hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. The interaction between neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid plaques can have synergistic effects, further impairing brain function and accelerating disease progression.

In summary, neurofibrillary tangles can have a detrimental impact on brain function by disrupting neuronal communication, causing neuronal death, impairing synaptic function, triggering inflammation and oxidative stress, and interacting with other pathological structures. Understanding the mechanisms through which neurofibrillary tangles affect brain function is crucial for developing effective treatments and interventions for neurodegenerative diseases.

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Keywords: neurofibrillary, tangles, function, neurons, neuronal, neurodegenerative, diseases, communication, between