Neuropathology

Module Overview

This module covers the core of neuropathology. We parse these topics into AlzD vs. Other Dementias (combining the molecular and clinical stories). Thus, the two Slide Sets for this chapter are designated Chapter12-13: Part-1 and Chapter12-13: Part-2. Part-1 is for non-AlzD dementias (LBD and FTD mainly), while Part-2 is for AlzD. THIS PARSING might seem a bit odd, but the Chapters read better as parsed and the lectures/slide sets provide a complementary and reinforcing approach to the complexities of Neurodegenerative Disease!
  • Chapter 12 focuses on molecular pathology
  • Chapter 13 focuses on clinical aspects of neuropathology
  • Chapter 14 covers the potentially crucial yet fuzzy topic of Cognitive Reserve (slideset not available)
  • Chapter 15 has an assortment of deep dives into the neural system issues associated with several dementias (slideset not available)

Slidesets

Chapters 12-13 Part 1 Reviews clinical aspects of dementia - notably cognitive symptoms, differential diagnosis, treatments, and prognosis. Covers time course, progression, and imaging details of most prevalent non-AlzD neurodegenerative disorders (Lewy Body disease, Parkinson's, frontotemporal dementia). Includes cellular processes that may give rise to pathology, pernicious RNA-binding protiens, protein aggregates, and other microscoping pathological processes.
Chapters 12-13 Part 2 Explores the molecular core and clinical aspects if Alzheimer's Disease specifically. This involves cellular processes that may give rise to pathology including those involved in the dementias of part 1, as well as ApoE, dystrophic neurites, and transport, catabolism, concomitant protein aggregation, and disruption of normal neuronal operations. The prion-like spread of neurotoxic proteins along fiber bundles is also considered and ties into the tau-amyloid debate of the last 20 years, which is perhaps beginning to resolve as evidence grows in favor of a causal sequence.

Additional Resources

HOT OFF THE PRESS: An Article and Commentary were just published in Neuron (March 3rd, 2021) which provide a perfect dive into the heart of the Neurodegenerative Problem! [Many thanks to the student who shared this new article with me!]. Because this article provides such elemental, explanatory and timely info, both articles should be read and we will discuss them in our coursework. We will focus on these in an upcoming lecture after covering some Chapter 12 basics.
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