ARE GENES INVOLVED IN CAUSING
ALZHEIMER DISEASE?
The cells of the body contain information, in the form of genes, for
the body to make all the necessary structural components and
chemicals to ensure normal function (see Genetics Fact Sheet 1). The
information contains instructions that tell the cell the correct amount
and type of proteins that need to be produced. Changes to the genetic
information can mean that the proteins are not produced in the right
amount or with the correct structure and function. A change that
impairs the gene product is called a mutation. A mutation makes a
gene faulty (see Genetics Fact Sheet 2).
Genes have been implicated in Alzheimer disease in two ways.
· Some families have a form of Alzheimer disease that is
hereditary and is associated with one of several genes that are
faulty. This is commonly referred to as familial Alzheimer
disease. Individuals in such families who have inherited the
faulty gene usually are affected with the condition well before 65
years of age. This form of Alzheimer disease is very rare.
· Individuals with Alzheimer disease of any age are more likely
than others in the community to have a close relative (a
parent, brother or sister) who has, or has had, dementia or
Alzheimer disease. About 30% of individuals with Alzheimer
disease have such a family history, whereas only about 10% of
elderly people generally have a history of dementia in a close
relative. At least part of this increased frequency of having
close relatives affected with the condition is related to the
person's genetic make-up

Copied from: http://www.genetics.com.au

.