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- Alzheimer's disease
How the plaques typical of Alzheimer's disease develop
Two cuts are necessary for the protein APP to form beta-amyloid.
23.09.2013
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- Diseases
- Alzheimer's disease
Alzheimer's – a Disease makes History
After more than 100 years, Alzheimer's disease is still incurable. Possible causes are emerging.
20.10.2025
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- Glossary
Plaques
Senile plaques accumulate in the gray matter of the brain when a protein – known as amyloid precursor protein – is not broken down correctly. Inflammation and disorders of fat or sugar metabolism can promote plaque formation. On average, the deposits reach a diameter of 50 micrometers. The appearance of plaques is one of several anatomical changes in the brain that pathologists can use to diagnose Alzheimer's disease after death.
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- News from the Institutes
Structure of clusterin: a key protein against neurodegenerative diseases
Crystallographic three-dimensional structure of human clusterin determined for the first time
08.09.2025
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- News from the Institutes
Protective Brain Immune Cell State Discovered
Discovery points to a potential new therapeutic pathway for Alzheimer’s disease
05.11.2025
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Graphics & photos
10.03.2017
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- Diseases
- Alzheimer's disease
Alzheimer's from the Inside
How do people live with Alzheimer's disease? A conversation with someone affected by the condition.
20.10.2025
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- Glossary
Beta-amyloid
A peptide consisting of 36 to 42 amino acids that is considered the main component of senile plaques and is believed to be responsible for the development of Alzheimer's disease. The starting product is the amyloid precursor protein (APP). Certain enzymes in the cell membrane cut the precursor protein into peptides of various sizes. Amyloids consisting of 40 and 42 amino acids are found in senile plaques, with the 42-amino-acid product forming aggregates particularly quickly, at least in the Petri dish. The normal function of beta-amyloid has not yet been conclusively clarified.
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- Diseases
- Alzheimer's disease
“And now he has Alzheimer's...” – A Guide for Relatives
Alzheimer's diagnosis: Find out what to expect and don't forget about yourself.
11.11.2025
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- Diseases
- Alzheimer's disease
“It's nerve-wracking”
Care at home or in a nursing home? For some dementia patients, shared accommodation can also be an alternative.
20.09.2013
