amyloid precursor protein
Amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a protein found in the cell membranes of neurons and other tissues. It plays a crucial role in neuronal growth, survival, and repair. APP can be processed in different ways, leading to the production of various fragments, some of which are involved in the formation of amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease.
When APP is improperly cleaved, it can produce beta-amyloid peptides, which aggregate to form plaques in the brain. These plaques are believed to disrupt cell communication and contribute to the neurodegenerative processes seen in Alzheimer's disease. Understanding APP and its functions is essential for developing potential treatments for this condition.