History of dementia in families could increase the chances of developing disease in later life
Study suggests that a family history of Alzheimer's may alter the gene that increases chances of developing the condition
DEMENTIA runs in families, according to new research.
The study suggests that a family history of Alzheimer's may alter the gene that increases chances of developing the disease.
MOST READ IN HEALTH
Study leader Dr Auriel Willette, of Iowa, US, said his team found a "dramatic difference" in the gene's impact on memory, general cognitive function and risk based on a family history of Alzheimer's disease and the length of a specific section of the gene.
Dr Willette said: "It was kind of a shot in the dark, but we found if you don't have a family history of Alzheimer's disease, then having a longer version of the gene is a good thing.
"It is related to better memory up to 10 years later and about one-fifth of the risk for developing Alzheimer's disease.
"However, if your mum or dad has Alzheimer's, then having a long version is bad. It's a complete polar opposite."
The study found late middle-aged people with a family history of Alzheimer’s and a longer version of the gene encountered twice as much memory loss as someone with a family history and a short version of the gene.
Dr Willette said: “As researchers it feels like we're on a train with a thousand different levers and buttons.
"We are trying to pull every lever and push every button to see which one is the brake.”
The findings were published online by the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia.