As we described previously (Parihar and Brewer, 2010), Aβ has a dual role in the brain. This study reports the interesting finding of an antioxidant role for Aβ, including aggregated forms of the protein. However, the benefit and/or toxicity depends on the amount of Aβ and its continuous presence in the brain for a long period of time.

Mitochondria play a significant role in Aβ functions in the brain. While determining the latter, mitochondrial parameters should be kept in mind.

References:
Parihar MS, Brewer GJ. Amyloid-β as a modulator of synaptic plasticity. J Alzheimers Dis. 2010;22(3):741-63. Abstract

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