What it is
Tau normally helps stabilize microtubules, but abnormal changes in Alzheimer disease can lead tau to form tangles inside neurons.[1]
Why it matters
Tau tangles can interfere with neuronal transport systems and synaptic communication.[1]
What it affects
- Abnormal tau tends to accumulate in memory-related brain regions and can spread as Alzheimer disease progresses.[1]
Interpretation traps
- Alzheimer disease is not only tau or only amyloid; NIA describes a complex interplay among tau, beta-amyloid, and other factors.[1]