Researchers and genes

Researchers suspect that many more genes that haven't been identified yet affect the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Such information may prove vital in the development of new ways to treat, or even prevent, Alzheimer's disease in the future.

Researchers are also studying genes that may protect against Alzheimer's disease. One variant of the APOE gene, called APOE Christchurch, appears to be protective, with an effect similar to that of APOE e2. More research is needed to understand this variant's effect on Alzheimer's disease risk.

The Alzheimer's Disease Genetics Study, sponsored by the National Institute on Aging, is examining genetic information from families that have at least two living family members who have developed Alzheimer's after age 65. If your family is interested in participating in this study, visit the website for the National Cell Repository for Alzheimer's Disease.

A number of other studies are evaluating the genetics of people with Alzheimer's disease and their family members. To learn more about these studies, and whether or not they're recruiting volunteers, visit the National Institute on Aging's Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center website, or ask your doctor what trials might be available.