Significant genetic risk factor uncovered by research
Published 7 June 2007
A common gene has come into the research spotlight after being linked to a four-fold increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
The GAB2 gene was highlighted by a collaborative team of researchers, who published their findings in the latest issue of the journal Neuron.
Professor Clive Ballard, director of research at the Alzheimer's Society, says,
'This impressive research suggests a common gene could be responsible for a four-fold increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. It is the most important risk factor gene to be identified in relation to tangles, which develop in the brain in Alzheimer's disease.
The research found the process associated with the development of tau, the protein at the core of tangles, was triggered by a variant of the GAB2 gene. This is a traditionally protective gene, which if under active has a harmful effect. The results are some of the most significant finds for genetic risk factors since the discovery of ApoE4, which revolutionised treatment research.
Genes and DNA are a common research tool for understanding causes and identifying possible cures for dementia. This study pinpoints important new treatment targets for Alzheimer's disease, which will create a key focus for future research.'
