APOE4 Gene May Shrink Brain Cells Years Before Alzheimer's Symptoms

Topic: Health

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes found that people carrying APOE4 gene variant may experience brain cell shrinkage and hyperactivity years before memory problems start. They identified a protein called Nell2 as the cause of this change, which could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

Millions of people around the world carry the APOE4 gene variant, which is the strongest known genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. Researchers at Gladstone Institutes wanted to understand how this gene affects brain cells and memory. They studied mouse models and found that APOE4 increases production of a protein called Nell2.

Higher levels of Nell2 caused neurons to become smaller and more active, leading to hyperactivity in the brain. Mice with high brain activity when they were young later developed severe memory problems. The researchers then reduced Nell2 production in adult mice carrying APOE4 and found that their neurons returned to normal size and behavior.

This study is a significant breakthrough for Alzheimer's research, as it shows how APOE4 affects brain cells at a young age and contributes to memory decline later in life. The researchers hope that this discovery will lead to new treatments that can block the detrimental effects of APOE4 early on.

Why It Matters

Alzheimer's disease is a major concern for India, with over 1 million people affected each year. Understanding how APOE4 affects brain cells could help develop new treatments and improve the lives of those living with Alzheimer's.

Key Facts

• Millions of people worldwide carry the APOE4 gene variant.
• APOE4 increases production of a protein called Nell2, leading to hyperactivity in brain cells.
• Reducing Nell2 production can reverse some of the changes caused by APOE4.
• The study was conducted by researchers at Gladstone Institutes and published in Nature Aging.
• Alzheimer's disease affects over 1 million people in India each year.

Key Terms

APOE4

A gene variant that increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease

Nell2

A protein that contributes to brain cell hyperactivity and memory decline

Implications

Alzheimer's disease is a major concern for India, with over 1 million people affected each year. Understanding how APOE4 affects brain cells could help develop new treatments and improve the lives of those living with Alzheimer's.