Final answer:
Amyloid beta 42 interferes with neurotransmitter reuptake by presynaptic neuron via glia, mainly astrocytes, impacting neuron signal transmission, which might lead to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. It can also lead to ion channel blockage, altering the neuron's firing capability.
Step-by-step explanation:
Amyloid beta 42, a peptide involved in Alzheimer's disease, can interfere with neurotransmitter reuptake by glia, specifically astrocytes. This process is the reuptake of neurotransmitters by the presynaptic neuron, following their release and activity, to terminate and reset for the next signal. It's a critical function in neuron communication.
Such blockage can impact the normal functioning of the neuron's signal transmission, leading to the commencement of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's. For example, Alzheimer's drugs work by inhibiting enzymes such as acetylcholinesterase to increase neurotransmission. Moreover, high concentrations of amyloid beta 42 can lead to ion channel blockage, changing the neuron's ability to fire.
Amyloid beta 42 remarkably alters the astrocyte's function, a star-shaped cell that contributes to the uptake or breakdown of neurotransmitters, which significantly imposes a quieting effect on the brain, similar to when GABA neurons are activated.
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