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Alzheimer genes discovery could herald new treatments
10 September 2009: Scientists have identified three new genes that may play a role in the development of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
The findings could pave the way for research into new treatments. However, Dr Sneh Khemka, medical director of Bupa International warns that it’s still too early to say how much of an impact these genes will have on the treatment of the disease.
French and British scientists carried out two separate studies comparing the genes of people who had Alzheimer’s disease with people who didn’t. Together, the studies analysed the entire genetic sequences (genomes) of around 30,000 people. The scientists looked for any common differences in the genetic sequences of people with Alzheimer’s disease that could be responsible for the development of the disease. Up until now, the only gene to be identified as having a link with late-onset Alzheimer’s disease is the APOE (apolipoprotein E) gene.
The studies confirmed the association of the APOE gene with Alzheimer’s disease, and also identified three new genes that seem to be related to the condition: CLU, PICALM and CR1. The scientists estimate that the CLU and PICALM genes have a role in the development of the disease in nearly one in 10 people with Alzheimer’s, whereas the CR1 gene may be a factor in one in 20 people with the disease.
The CLU and CR1 genes are thought to produce proteins that help protect the brain, whereas the PICALM gene is thought to be important at the connections between brain cells (synapses). Changes in these genes may lead to alterations in the brain that are found in people with Alzheimer’s disease.
The identification of these genes opens up new areas for research into potential treatments. However, it could be many years before the role of these genes in Alzheimer’s disease is fully understood.
Dr Sneh Khemka, medical director for Bupa International, commented: “This research is a significant step in the global effort to understand the complexities that surround Alzheimer’s disease. However, more research is needed before scientists can fully understand the importance of these genes and how they interact with other genes and lifestyle factors.”
Related information
Key facts: Alzheimer's disease and genetics
- In people with Alzheimer’s disease, changes in the brain result in cells becoming damaged and eventually dying. These changes include plaques (deposits of a protein called beta amyloid) and tangles (twisted fibres of another protein called tau).
- It’s not completely understood why these changes develop, however, both genetics and lifestyle factors are thought to play a part.
- The CLU and CR1 genes – as well as the previously identified APOE gene – help to protect the brain by getting rid of beta amyloid.
- The PICALM gene is important for normal functioning of the nerve connections (synapses) in the brain.
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