Scientists recently discovered a stronger link between a specific gene and Alzheimer’s disease.
People who inherit two copies of this gene, called APOE4, are much more likely to get a particular kind of Alzheimer’s than those with different versions of the gene. This finding could change how we research, diagnose, and treat Alzheimer’s in the future.
For decades, scientists knew APOE4 increased the risk of Alzheimer’s, but this study suggests it might be a completely different type altogether, not just a risk factor.
Only 2-3% of people have two copies of APOE4, but they make up about 15% of all Alzheimer’s cases.
People with two APOE4 copies are likely to develop Alzheimer’s symptoms much earlier, around 65 years old, compared to others.
The study looked at brain scans and spinal fluid from thousands of people. They found that by age 65, almost all those with two APOE4 copies had signs of Alzheimer’s in their brains.
Some scientists aren’t convinced this is a separate type of Alzheimer’s, but the findings are significant. This new understanding could impact how we treat the disease. For example, a new Alzheimer’s drug called Leqembi seems to cause more side effects in people with two APOE4 copies. This might mean some patients wouldn’t be able to take this medication.
Overall, this research offers a deeper understanding of how genes influence Alzheimer’s and paves the way for more targeted treatment approaches in the future.