Tau protein

Definition

Tau protein is a microtubule-associated protein that stabilizes microtubules in neurons, playing a critical role in maintaining the structure and function of axons. In Alzheimer's disease, tau becomes hyperphosphorylated, leading to the formation of neurofibrillary tangles, which contribute to synaptic degeneration and neuronal death.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tau protein is normally involved in stabilizing microtubules, which are essential for maintaining neuronal structure and transporting nutrients and signals.
2. In Alzheimer's disease, the abnormal phosphorylation of tau leads to its detachment from microtubules, disrupting their stability and function.
3. The aggregation of hyperphosphorylated tau into neurofibrillary tangles is correlated with the severity of cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients.
4. Studies have shown that reducing tau levels or preventing its aggregation may have potential therapeutic benefits for slowing down the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
5. Imaging techniques like PET scans can detect tau pathology in living patients, providing insights into disease progression and aiding in early diagnosis.

Review Questions

• How does the normal function of tau protein change in the context of Alzheimer's disease?
  • Under normal circumstances, tau protein stabilizes microtubules within neurons, which are vital for maintaining cell structure and facilitating intracellular transport. However, in Alzheimer's disease, tau becomes hyperphosphorylated, causing it to detach from microtubules. This loss of attachment leads to destabilization of the microtubules, resulting in impaired neuronal function and ultimately contributing to neurodegeneration.
• What is the relationship between hyperphosphorylated tau protein and neurofibrillary tangles in Alzheimer's pathology?
  • Hyperphosphorylated tau protein aggregates to form neurofibrillary tangles, which are one of the key pathological features observed in Alzheimer's disease. These tangles disrupt normal cellular processes by blocking communication between neurons and impairing synaptic function. The presence of these tangles is associated with the extent of cognitive decline experienced by individuals suffering from Alzheimer's.
• Evaluate potential therapeutic strategies targeting tau protein to combat Alzheimer's disease progression.
  • Research has focused on developing therapies aimed at reducing tau levels or preventing its aggregation into neurofibrillary tangles as a way to slow down Alzheimer's disease progression. Strategies include small molecules that inhibit tau phosphorylation or promote its clearance from neurons. Additionally, immunotherapy approaches are being explored to generate antibodies against pathological forms of tau. These strategies highlight a promising avenue for treatment by addressing one of the core features driving neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's patients.

Related terms

Neurofibrillary Tangles: Abnormal aggregations of hyperphosphorylated tau protein that disrupt neuronal function and are a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.

Microtubules: Cylindrical structures made of tubulin that form part of the cytoskeleton, providing structural support and transport pathways within cells.

Phosphorylation: A biochemical process involving the addition of a phosphate group to a protein, which can alter the protein's function and activity.