Where is alzheimer located

Whether you are living with Alzheimer's or caring for someone with the disease, information and resources are available. We're Here to Help. Together, we are stronger! Explore the many ways to join the fight against Alzheimer's disease. Make an Impact. As the world's leading nonprofit funder of Alzheimer's research, the Association is accelerating the field toward solutions for the global Alzheimer's crisis. Efforts We Lead.

Donate Now. In the brains of people where this gene does not function normally, plaques build up between neurons. Astrocytes—another type of glial cell—are signaled to help clear the buildup of plaques and other cellular debris left behind. These microglia and astrocytes collect around the neurons but fail to perform their debris-clearing function. In addition, they release chemicals that cause chronic inflammation and further damage the neurons they are meant to protect.

Any number of vascular issues—problems that affect blood vessels, such as beta-amyloid deposits in brain arteries, atherosclerosis hardening of the arteries , and mini-strokes—may also be at play. Vascular problems may lead to reduced blood flow and oxygen to the brain, as well as a breakdown of the blood-brain barrier, which usually protects the brain from harmful agents while allowing in glucose and other necessary factors.

This results in inflammation, which adds to vascular problems in the brain. Learn more about Alzheimer's disease from MedlinePlus. ADEAR Center staff answer telephone, email, and written requests and make referrals to local and national resources. NIA scientists and other experts review this content to ensure it is accurate and up to date.

Key Biological Processes in the Brain Most neurons have three basic parts: a cell body, multiple dendrites, and an axon. Dendrites are branch-like structures that extend from the cell body and collect information from other neurons. The axon is a cable-like structure at the end of the cell body opposite the dendrites and transmits messages to other neurons. NIA supports efforts to evaluate programs, strategies, approaches, and other research to improve the quality of care and life for those living with dementia and their caregivers.

Becoming well-informed about the disease is one important long-term strategy. For example, staying physically active provides physical and emotional benefits. Some caregivers have found that joining a support group is a critical lifeline. These support groups enable caregivers to find respite, express concerns, share experiences, get tips, and receive emotional comfort. Read about this topic in Spanish. Receive weekly tips and resources on Alzheimer's disease and related dementias from NIA's Alzheimers.

ADEAR Center staff answer telephone, email, and written requests and make referrals to local and national resources. Eldercare Locator toll-free eldercarelocator n4a. MedlinePlus National Library of Medicine www. NIA scientists and other experts review this content to ensure it is accurate and up to date.

What Happens to the Brain in Alzheimer's Disease? On this page: How does Alzheimer's disease affect the brain? Support for families and Alzheimer's disease caregivers. Sign up for email updates Receive weekly tips and resources on Alzheimer's disease and related dementias from NIA's Alzheimers. Email Address. Related Articles. Beta-amyloid comes from a larger protein found in the fatty membrane surrounding nerve cells.

Beta-amyloid is chemically "sticky" and gradually builds up into plaques. The most damaging form of beta-amyloid may be groups of a few pieces rather than the plaques themselves. The small clumps may block cell-to-cell signaling at synapses. They may also activate immune system cells that trigger inflammation and devour disabled cells.

Tangles destroy a vital cell transport system made of proteins. This electron microscope picture shows a cell with some healthy areas and other areas where tangles are forming. Nutrients and other essential supplies can no longer move through the cells, which eventually die. Plaques and tangles shown in the blue-shaded areas tend to spread through the cortex in a predictable pattern as Alzheimer's disease progresses. The rate of progression varies greatly. On average, a person with Alzheimer's lives four to eight years after diagnosis, but can live as long as 20 years, depending on other factors.