Gene Variant in Colombian Family Delays Alzheimer's Symptoms

progressive, neurodegenerative disease characterized by memory loss

Highlights

Scientists studying a Colombian family affected by early-onset Alzheimer's discovered a rare gene variant.
This gene variant appears to delay the initial symptoms of Alzheimer's by approximately five years.
The findings provide new insights into potential ways to delay the onset of Alzheimer's symptoms.

Story

Scientists studying a family affected by early-onset Alzheimer's discovered a genetic anomaly that delays initial symptoms by five years. This rare gene variant offers potential insights into combating Alzheimer's if its protective mechanisms can be understood. The discovery of 27 family members carrying this variant suggests modifying it could help delay the disease. Alzheimer's typically affects individuals over 65, with the APOE gene playing a significant role in risk. The Christchurch variant may impede the progression of tau protein, a key factor in Alzheimer's development. Further research is needed to understand how this variant influences the disease process.

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