Chan Zuckerberg Initiative on Instagram: "⬇️ 4 facts about the brain and neurodegeneration for #WorldBrainDay! 1️⃣ Our brains remain adaptable throughout life, reshaping and relearning in response to new experiences and damage. This is called neural plasticity. 2️⃣ Many neurodegenerative diseases are caused by misfolding of proteins in the brain. Alzheimer’s involves the accumulation of Tau proteins forming neuron-clogging tangles that disrupt communication and cause cognitive decline. 3️⃣ The gut may play a role in brain health. Parkinson’s is linked to toxic clumps of alpha-synuclein proteins, which might start accumulating in the gut before spreading to the brain. 4️⃣ Genetic factors can increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Certain genes have been linked to conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease. Understanding fundamental biology is key to solving neurodegeneration. We support new research approaches & technologies to advance our unde...