The Discovery of TDP 43 Dementia and How It Strikes the Oldest Ages

TDP 43 Dementia is a neurological disorder characterized by the abnormal accumulation of protein in the brain. Learn how it was discovered.

By Linda Marsa
Dec 23, 2019 10:00 PMAug 10, 2023 2:04 PM
Dementia Neuropathologist, Peter-Nelson
Neuropathologist Peter Nelson analyzed dementia patients’ brains postmortem. (Credit: Mark Cornelison)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

So many older people experience the tell-tale symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, like forgetfulness and muddled thinking. Yet post-mortem autopsies often find none of the amyloid plaques or tau tangles that are hallmarks of the mind-robbing illness.

Now, scientists may have solved this perplexing mystery: These patients are probably affected by a newly identified degenerative disorder that mimics Alzheimer’s and could be just as prevalent among older adults.

LATE Dementia

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.