Researchers Study Gene Possibly Helpful against Alzheimer's Disease

People with a gene linked to long life and good health are also less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease, U.S. researchers said on Tuesday.

Photo: Researchers Study Gene Possibly Helpful against Alzheimer's Disease

They said people with two copies of a certain version of the cholesteryl ester transfer protein or CETP gene had significantly slower memory declines compared with people who had different versions of the gene.

Most studies have sought to identify genetic variations that increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, such as APOE4.

An estimated 26 million people globally have Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia. The disease starts out with mild memory loss and confusion but escalates into complete memory loss and an inability to care for oneself.

Scientists examined a variant of the CETP gene that is already associated with exceptional longevity and cardiovascular health.

They analyzed the DNA of more than 500 people who did not have dementia at the start of the study. The researchers also did annual memory tests.

After at least three years of follow up, 40 people developed dementia.

It is not exactly clear how this gene could protect the brain, but people with the longevity variant of the CETP gene tend to have high levels of high density lipoprotein or HDL, the so-called "good" cholesterol that protects against heart disease.

One possibility is the longevity gene promotes successful brain aging by preventing vascular disease, acording to scientists' analysis. The gene may also have a direct protective effect against Alzheimer's.

Drug companies are already targeting the CETP gene in the hopes of raising levels of HDL or good cholesterol. Pfizer's drug torcetrapib showed early promise, but the drug had excessive side effects, and Merck & Co now has a drug in late-stage clinical trials.

Despite decades of research, doctors still have few effective treatments for Alzheimer's disease, which is expected to affect 100 million people by 2050.

Reuters has contributed to the report.