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- Glossary
Neurofibrils
Neurofibrils are fine fibrous structures in nerve cells that consist mainly of neurofilaments (a form of intermediate filaments) and other components of the cytoskeleton. They run in bundles through the cell body and the extensions of neurons and contribute significantly to the stabilization and shaping of the nerve cell. They appear as characteristic features of neurons even in the early embryo. Alzheimer's disease causes profound changes in cytoskeletal structures: the protein tau, which normally stabilizes microtubules, becomes excessively phosphorylated, detaches from the microtubules, and aggregates to form the typical neurofibrillary tangles (fibrillary bundles). These are a central pathological feature of the disease.
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- Glossary
Microtubules
Microtubules are one of the main components of the cytoskeleton, which gives cells stability and support. They consist of many copies of the proteins alpha- and beta-tubulin, which pair up to form tubes with a diameter of 20 to 30 nanometers. In addition to their supporting function, microtubules play an important role in transporting messenger substances through the cell. In neurons, for example, vesicles filled with neurotransmitters move along them to the synapses. In the nerve cells of the brains of Alzheimer's patients, a protein called tau can no longer stabilize the microtubules properly. As a result, they disintegrate, which contributes significantly to the development of dementia.
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- Diseases
- Alzheimer's disease
A Slow Descent into Forgetfulness
After a long asymptomatic phase, Alzheimer's disease progresses through three stages
18.03.2026
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- Diseases
- Multiple sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis – a Medical Challenge
Multiple sclerosis is incurable, but there are a variety of treatment options available.
20.02.2026
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Glossary
15.03.2017
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- Diseases
- Successful aging
The Old, Healthy Brain
Some people seem to be unaffected by aging. Research is currently being conducted to find out why this is the case.
01.02.2026
