amyloid

noun

am·​y·​loid ˈa-mə-ˌlȯid 

: a waxy translucent substance consisting primarily of protein that is deposited in some animal organs and tissues under abnormal conditions (such as Alzheimer's disease) compare beta-amyloid

amyloid adjective

Examples of amyloid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

One of the hallmarks of Alzheimer's is the development of amyloid plaques in the brain, which occurs when a naturally occurring protein, beta-amyloid, clumps together to form plaques that disrupt nerve cell function, according to the NIH. —Lauren De Young, The Arizona Republic, 16 Nov. 2024

Typically, people will either get a positron emission technology (PET) scan of the brain or a spinal fluid test to look for evidence of amyloid. —Lisa Rapaport, EverydayHealth.com, 9 July 2024

This includes persons with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia and confirmed amyloid plaques. —Joshua P. Cohen, Forbes, 2 Nov. 2024

There can also be a reduction of amyloid plaques, which are associated with Alzheimer’s disease. —Allison Futterman, Discover Magazine, 30 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing amyloid

• amyloid beta
• amyloid beta peptide
• amyloid beta protein
• beta-amyloid
• beta-amyloid peptide
• beta-amyloid protein

Medical Definition

amyloid

noun

am·​y·​loid

ˈam-ə-ˌlȯid

1

: a nonnitrogenous starchy food

2

: a waxy translucent substance consisting primarily of protein that is deposited in some animal organs and tissue under abnormal conditions (as in Alzheimer's disease) see beta-amyloid

amyloid adjective