AD/PD 2021 | Alzheimer’s disease and β-Amyloid: new revelations

Colin L. Masters, MD, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Australia, gives an overview of how amyloid beta (Aβ) is formed and cleared in the brain. Recent studies revealed that Aβ accumulation preferentially starts in the default mode network, and therefore these regions are affected first in preclinical disease. Prof. Masters highlights that as Aβ gradually accumulates in those areas of the brain, the first detectable signs of impartment are a defect in learning instead of memory deficits. This is particularly important as the brain areas first affected by Aβ deposition are involved in learning. Possibly the amyloid protein and its precursor, amyloid precursor protein (APP), are highly involved in the learning process. If that is demonstrated, it will help understand the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease. This interview took place during the AD/PD™ 2021 conference.