Protein in eyes of people with Down’s syndrome linked to dementia

Researchers have discovered that the protein that forms plaques in the brain in Alzheimer's disease also accumulates in the eyes of people with Down's syndrome according to research published in May issue of the journal PLoS ONE.The research has been led by Boston University Alzheimer's Disease Center, and the Molecular Aging & Development Laboratory. Scientists hope the discovery could lead to new ways of diagnosing Alzheimer's disease. Early diagnosis is an important target for research as it could work hand in hand with other potential treatments such as vaccines to offer people hope for the future.

People with Down's syndrome make up the second largest group of people with dementia under the age of 60, and Down's syndrome is the leading cause of dementia for people under 50.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'Is this an exciting study? The eyes have it! This study is the first of its kind to link specific cataracts found in the eyes of people with Down's syndrome with changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer's disease. Studies like this one offer hope for finding new ways of detecting Alzheimer's disease before symptoms become apparent. This could help with developing treatments such as vaccines to help transform people's lives.'

'However, this research was carried out post-mortem. Much more research is now needed to find ways of measuring the development of these cataracts in living people and to establish if there is a link to the way cataracts develop in other people with Alzheimer's. Yet, dementia research is drastically underfunded. We urgently need more investment if we are to tackle this devastating condition. Anyone concerned about dementia should talk to their GP.'

Dr Susanne Sorensen
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society

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Research paper reference: Moncaster JA, Pineda R, Moir RD, Lu S, Burton MA, et al. (2010) Alzheimer's Disease Amyloid-b Links Lens and Brain Pathology in Down Syndrome. PLoSONE 5(5): e10659. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0010659

Read the full paper

Notes to editors:

• If carers are concerned about a person with Down's syndrome it's important not to worry unnecessarily. Alzheimer's Society advice is for people to talk with their GP about their concerns and ask how to notice the symptoms of dementia.
• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia.
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them. 
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk