What are neurofibrillary tangles associated with?

Neurofibrillary tangles are primarily associated with damaged proteins within nerve cells in the brain. These tangles are made up of aggregates of hyperphosphorylated tau protein, which becomes misfolded and forms insoluble structures inside neurons. This process disrupts normal cellular function and is commonly linked to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. As these tangles accumulate, they lead to the death of nerve cells and contribute to the cognitive decline associated with these conditions.

The presence of neurofibrillary tangles is considered a hallmark of neurodegeneration, making their identification critical in understanding and diagnosing various forms of dementia and other neurodegenerative disorders. This association reflects the detrimental effects that protein misfolding can have on neural health and cognitive function.