Alzheimer genes discovery could herald new treatments
14 September 2009
This discovery offers great potential for future research into a condition that affects so many people in the UK. 
Dr Karen Woo, associate medical director, Bupa
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 Karen Woo, associate medical director for Bupa 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 Karen Woo, associate medical director for Bupa, commented: "This discovery offers great potential for future research into a condition that affects so many people in the UK. However it's important to remember that Alzheimer's is a complex disease, and while genetics may play a part in your risk of getting the condition, it's certainly not the only factor."
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