| Background |
Amyloid Beta (Aβ or Abeta) is a multi-functional peptide of 36-43 amino acids, processed from the Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP). It is most commonly known to be associated with Alzheimer's disease since it is the main component of amyloid plaques found in the brains of the diseased subjects. However, it also plays a role in multiple non-disease activities including protection against metal-induced reactive oxidizing species (ROS), modification of cholesterol transport, and potential activity as a transcription factor. It is secreted by platelets into the blood serum and its levels elevate with age.
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