The findings were published in the journal Nature Genetics on November 21. Researchers from around the world compared data from 32,558 genetic codes, of which 16,036 had Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and 16,522 did not.
New mutations that could cause Alzheimer’s
The study discovered several new genes and mutations within those genes that can lead to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. The new gene encodes mutations that are rare but detrimental. These mutations were discovered in the genes ATP8B4 and ABCA1, both of which may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. They also discovered a genetic alteration — a gene abnormality — in the ADAM10 gene.
The study, according to the researchers, will allow them to assess variation in the immune system and brain processing. These findings point to very specific brain processing, such as differences in the brain’s immune system and how the brain processes cholesterol. These differences have an impact on brain functioning and contribute to the development of AD.
The future and determining who is at risk for Alzheimer’s disease
This study’s researchers used exome sequencing data to identify Alzheimer’s disease-causing variants. In current scenario, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, researchers believe that gene mutation discoveries will bring them closer to discovering treatment options and preventative measures. Although older age is a risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s disease, younger people are beginning to develop the disease, which occurs between the ages of 30 and the mid-60s
This study adds to our understanding of who is at risk of developing this type of dementia. These genetic discoveries also allow us to better understand the mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s disease and to develop genetic models of the disease in order to develop targeted therapies in the future—whether through new drug-based treatments or even gene therapy.
