Abnormal forms of Tau, a brain phosphoprotein, make up part of the structure of neurofibrillary tangles, while Aß42, which is formed from beta amyloid precursor protein, is associated with the creation of senile plaques. While the formation of neurofibrillary tangles and senile plaques is a normal part of aging, in people with AD they are present in greater numbers than in people without AD.
The roles of beta amyloid precursor protein (and Aß42) and tau protein in the development of AD are not fully understood; however, this is an active area of research. The measurement of these two proteins in CSF is being evaluated for potential roles in diagnosis and monitoring of AD.
How is the sample collected for testing? Cerebrospinal fluid samples are collected using a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) procedure. This procedure is usually done in a hospital or clinic.
This article was last reviewed on December 6, 2004.
This page was last modified on June 1, 2009.
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