Figure (IMAGE) National Institutes of Natural Sciences Caption (A) On the neuronal cell membrane, Aβ molecules adopt a "U"-shaped conformation, allining alternately on the membrane surface to form two layers: the β1 layer, distal from the membrane, and the β2 layer, closer to the membrane. This assembly of Aβ acts as a "catalytic platform," accelerating the fibrillation of surrounding Aβ molecules. (B) In previously reported Aβ amyloid fibrils, Aβ molecules align in the same direction. Credit Maho Yagi-Utsumi Usage Restrictions Credit must be given to the creator. Only noncommercial uses of the work are permitted. No derivatives or adaptations of the work are permitted. License CC BY-NC-ND Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.