As someone who has been given the diagnosis of Alzheimer's, I am, of course, more than just a little interested in items that may point at a way out of this mentally crippling disease. One item follows (Where the article, and more, of course, may be found is at the address at the top.) Anyone having any concern about this disease should find it just a bit interesting.
| from: | Alzheimer's Prevention Registry <info@endalznow.org> |
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Dear readers,
Although we don’t know exactly what causes Alzheimer’s disease, we do know that specific genes come with an elevated risk — and in some cases, these genes define whether a person will get Alzheimer’s. The early onset markers — APP, PSEN1 and PSEN2 — carry the highest risk. But this week we learned about a woman from Columbia, carrying PSEN2. This gene should have almost guaranteed her fate... but she defied the odds.
As Being Patient reports, Aliria Rosa Piedrahita de Villegas, despite carrying PSEN2, lived into her 70’s, when she died of cancer, leaving scientists with a very important mystery to solve: PSEN2 is an early onset marker linked to a high likelihood of Alzheimer’s at a very young age, 40’s and 50’s. Scientists were astounded that she didn’t get Alzheimer’s. An autopsy even confirmed she did indeed have the presence of beta-amyloid plaque in her brain. But they did find something else: a genetic mutation that could have counteracted the risk of PSEN2.
As the daughter of a geneticist, I find this particular aspect of research fascinating. There are several biotech firms looking for ways to re-engineer our genes in order to make risky genes act more like those that offer us additional protection. As genetic testing becomes more common and accessible, this field of research is getting more attention.
Few things are certain when it comes to Alzheimer’s. but genetic research could unlock a new world of answers.
With hope,
Deborah
Just a little something you might want to sign in for if Alzheimers is something you are a bit interested in knowing more about. Thanks---Steve
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