Question: How does neurodegeneration with Brain iron accumulation occur? Also, how does iron accumulate in the brain?

Mobeen Ali answered on 9 Mar 2016:

As we get older, the amount of iron in our brains increases and is linked to a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The neurons in the brain require a small amount of iron to function properly. Too much iron can damage the neurons which negatively affects the brains ability to process information and store memories.

In Alzheimer’s disease, plaques built up in the brain which are basically formed from proteins and contain iron. The body becomes less efficient at breaking down the plaques with age. Iron can also be released from dead cells.