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Alzheimer's / Dementia

Plaques

From , former About.com Guide

Updated March 04, 2008

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Definition: Deposits of the protein beta-amyloid that accumulate in the spaces between nerve cells. Plaques interfere with the nerve cells' ability to communicate with each other and perform important brain functions. Plaques, along with neurofibrillary tangles, are a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.

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