A research team has discovered that the two key pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's -- tau protein and beta-amyloid -- affect brain circuits in distinct yet synergistic ways, particularly those linked to memory and emotions. The study, using a new animal model of Alzheimer's disease, suggests a potential breakthrough in treatment strategies. Current therapies mainly focus on blocking just one of the toxic proteins associated with the disease, but this discovery could pave the way for more comprehensive approaches.