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Dying neurons that contain accumulations of amyloid and twisted protein filaments are called?

1) neurofibrillary tangles
2) neuritic plaques
3) free radicals
4) beta amyloid precursor proteins
5) amyloid plaques

User Shiblon
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Final answer:

Dying neurons with accumulations of amyloid and twisted protein filaments are referred to as neurofibrillary tangles, which are comprised of hyperphosphorylated tau proteins that disrupt the neuron's transport system, leading to cell death and contributing to Alzheimer's disease symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The dying neurons that contain accumulations of amyloid and twisted protein filaments are called neurofibrillary tangles. This term describes the twisted strands of tau protein that are found within brain cells of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. As tau protein functions normally in microtubule stabilization within healthy neurons, when these proteins become hyperphosphorylated, they tangle and cause the neuron's transport system to collapse leading to cell death.

This process is often observed in the hippocampus, a critical region for memory formation. Such tangles, alongside amyloid plaques (another hallmark of Alzheimer's), significantly impair the structure and function of the affected neurons, contributing to the symptoms of dementia.

User Sohlae
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