What is the Impact of Neurodegenerative Diseases on Synaptic Connectivity?
Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, have profound effects on synaptic connectivity. In Alzheimer's disease, there is a loss of synapses and alterations in synaptic proteins, leading to impaired neuronal communication. Histological studies often reveal the presence of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, which are associated with synaptic dysfunction and neuronal loss.