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Most Alzheimer's Cases Linked to Single Gene
9 Jan
Summary
- A specific variant of the APOE gene is linked to most Alzheimer's cases.
- The common APOE ε3 variant, previously thought neutral, is now implicated.
- Targeting APOE offers potential for preventing a majority of Alzheimer's.
Scientists have discovered that a common gene variant, APOE ε3, plays a significant role in almost all cases of Alzheimer's disease. Previously, attention focused on the ε4 variant, but new research indicates that without the ε3 variant, most Alzheimer's cases would not develop. This finding, stemming from analysis of 450,000 participants, suggests that 72 to 93 percent of Alzheimer's cases are associated with APOE ε3 and ε4.
The APOE gene, essential for clearing amyloid-beta proteins, has three common types: ε2, ε3, and ε4. While ε4 is known to increase risk, the ε3 variant, once thought harmless, is now recognized as critical. Researchers estimate that approximately 45 percent of all dementia cases would also be preventable if the risk conferred by these APOE variants could be mitigated.
This research highlights the APOE gene as a powerful target for future Alzheimer's drug development and prevention. While not the sole cause, understanding its significant contribution offers hope for strategies that could potentially prevent a majority of the disease. Further clinical trials are needed to explore treatments specifically for individuals with higher genetic risk.
