# amyloid

/ˈæmɪˌɫɔɪd/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/amyloid
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a type of protein that can build up in the body and cause serious health problems, like in Alzheimer's disease.

For teachers: a protein that can aggregate into insoluble fibrils, often associated with various neurodegenerative and systemic diseases.

## Examples

- Scientists are studying how amyloid builds up in the brain.
- Researchers are developing new drugs to prevent the formation of amyloid plaques that lead to memory loss.
- The accumulation of amyloid-beta peptides in the extracellular matrix is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, leading to the disruption of neuronal communication and eventual cell death.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.