What causes Alzheimer’s disease?

The underlying cause of Alzheimer’s is not known for certain, but several explanations have been proposed. The most common theory is that Alzheimer’s disease is the result of neurodegeneration and a buildup of misfolded proteins called amyloid plaques and tau tangles, which are almost always found in the brains of people with the disease. However, this “amyloid hypothesis” has been criticized. Regardless of the cause of Alzheimer’s disease, various modifiable and nonmodifiable factors, including aging, depression, diabetes, and genetics, have been linked to a higher risk of the disease.