Alzheimer's disease might damage the brain in two distinct phases, a new study suggests. An early phase that occurs slowly and silently appears to lay the groundwork for a second, more widely destructive phase of Alzheimer's, according to sophisticated brain scans.

"The results fundamentally alter scientists' understanding of how Alzheimer's harms the brain," researchers say.

An analysis of the genetic activity of brain cells in individuals who have died with Alzheimer's disease has revealed the condition progresses in two stages; a slow increase in inflammation, followed by a more rapid degeneration.

New research suggests the disease occurs in two phases, including one in which changes happen gradually – and 'quietly.'

Alzheimer’s disease may damage the brain in two phases, according to new research published in Nature Neuroscience on Monday.

Alzheimer's disease may progress in two distinct phases, with the early phase affecting specific brain cells before symptoms appear, and the later phase marked by rapid deterioration.

A recent study supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and published in Nature Neuroscience found that Alzheimer’s disease might cause brain damage in two stages. The researchers analysed the brains of 84 people.

Alzheimer’s Disease May Damage the Brain in Two Phases - NIH Study Uncovers Which Cell Types May Be Harmed First

Alzheimer’s disease might damage the brain in two distinct phases, a new study suggests. An early phase that occurs slowly and silently appears to lay the groundwork for a second, more widely destructive phase of Alzheimer’s,

Alzheimer’s disease is life-threatening and some of the common symptoms don’t appear until the condition has significantly damaged the brain. Neuroscientists are desperately trying to help people prevent the condition,