Gene Variant Delays Inherited Alzheimer’s Disease

Variations in certain genes can modify the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other types of dementia. Some of the best-understood variants to date are in a gene called APOE. This gene plays a role in transporting cholesterol and other fatty molecules in the brain and body. People with a variant of APOE called APOE4 have an increased risk of developing AD dementia. In contrast, people with a variant called APOE2 appear to have some protection against developing dementia. Researchers are now performing additional studies to understand the mechanisms through which APOE3Ch protects the brain.