Scientists Study Genetics' Part in Alzheimer's Disease
Scientists are carrying out what is thought to constitute the biggest ever probe into the role genes play in the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Spearheaded by a team based at Cardiff University, the study will assess samples of DNA amassed from 14,000 US and UK Alzheimer's patients. In order to make a comparison between the samples provided, the researchers will survey the whole human genetic framework.
In doing this, they will aim to detect genetic code alterations that indicate a person's susceptibility to developing dementia, or his/her protection from it.
The 14,000 sets of data will comprise 6,000 samples from patients with advanced Alzheimer's, alongside 8,000 from those without the condition.
Alzheimer's Researchers to Probe Disease's Genetic Cause
Through establishing genetic variations common to the two groups, the scientists aim to discover uncharted mutations that assist in the development of Alzheimer's.
The head of the Cardiff team is Professor Julie Williams. "Alzheimer's...", she said, "...is a genetically-complicated story involving many genes, so we need large sample sizes to make sure any genetic links that we find are not mere coincidence."
She continued:"With access to 14,000 DNA samples, our study is the largest genetic study ever to look at Alzheimer's and will undoubtedly produce some valuable insights into what causes this devastating illness. It's very likely that we will find some unexpected associations. We know already that certain genes are involved in more than one form of dementia and that even genes that affect cholesterol level can be a risk factor for Alzheimer's.
"We need to build a complete picture of the different pathways that lead to the disease.
"With this knowledge...", she concluded: "...we should, in time, be able to derive tangible clinical benefits."
According to the Alzheimer's society, dementia is a condition currently affecting over 700,00 people across the country. In line with extended life expectancy, the society said, the number affected will leap to 1.4 million by 2027.
Source - Pharmaceutical International's Research and Development Analyst
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