What genetic differences do Vanderbilt University's super agers have?

Vanderbilt University's super agers are less likely to carry the APOE-ε4 Alzheimer's risk gene and more likely to carry the protective APOE-ε2 gene.

How does the APOE-ε4 gene affect Alzheimer's risk?

The APOE-ε4 gene variant is the strongest known genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's disease.

What is the Alzheimer's Disease Sequencing Project Phenotype Harmonization Consortium?

This consortium is a collaboration that analyzed genetic and cognitive data from 18,080 participants to study aging and Alzheimer's.

Home / Health / Super Agers' Genes Hold Alzheimer's Secrets

Super Agers' Genes Hold Alzheimer's Secrets

19 Jan

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Summary

Super agers have genetic differences protecting against Alzheimer's.
They carry fewer high-risk APOE-ε4 genes and more protective APOE-ε2 genes.
Study analyzed 18,080 participants from eight national aging studies.

Super Agers' Genes Hold Alzheimer's Secrets

Scientists have uncovered that individuals maintaining exceptional cognitive function into their eighties often share specific genetic traits that may shield them from Alzheimer's disease. Researchers identified these 'super agers' as individuals over 80 with memory and thinking abilities comparable to much younger adults.

The study revealed that super agers are significantly less prone to carrying the APOE-ε4 gene, a known Alzheimer's risk factor. Conversely, they are more likely to possess the APOE-ε2 gene, which is believed to offer protection against the disease. These findings emerged from an analysis of 18,080 participants across eight national aging studies.

This research deepens the understanding of cognitive resilience and highlights the potential of super agers as a model for future Alzheimer's research. Scientists anticipate that by studying these genetic advantages, new strategies for preventing and treating Alzheimer's disease may eventually be developed.