We recently shared hopeful news that from 2000 to 2012 there was a decline in the rate of Dementia. We are excited to share some more encouraging news, provided by a recent 60-Minutes investigation called the Alzheimer’s Laboratory. Researchers have found an extended family in Colombia with a genetic mutation that causes Alzheimer’s. This discovery may help scientists prevent the disease someday, which could be a monumental shift in the future of Alzheimer’s worldwide.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
As described in a recent post about Alzheimer’s Disease, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Alzheimer’s Disease is “an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. In most people with Alzheimer’s, symptoms first appear in their mid-60s.” Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia among older adults and the risk of getting it increases with age.
Clinical Trial Summary
60 Minutes reported that years ago a young doctor and nurse in Colombia unraveled the mystery of many patients who were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in their mid-40s. The significant finding was that they were all a part of one large, extended family, connected generations back. As a result, a collaboration between public and private funding created a clinical trial study that scientists are hoping may help prevent the disease in others someday.
Why Is this Family Unique?
Many in this large family have a rare genetic mutation that causes early onset Alzheimer’s. A genetic test revealed which relatives have the mutation, and they have been taking part in a study that began three years ago.
What is the Clinical Trial?
Genentech, the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, and the National Institutes of Health are collaborating on the first-ever prevention trial to be conducted on cognitively healthy individuals who have a genetic history of Alzheimer’s Disease. The funding of the trial includes $15 million in research funding from NIH, $15 million from other philanthropists, and the remaining needs provided by a research and development (R&D) budget from Genentech. The Autosomal Dominant Alzheimer’s Disease (ADAD) trial is currently focused on Colombia.
The trial focuses on prevention by using an immunotherapy drug to remove amyloid plaque, which is a known cause of Alzheimer’s. From there, scientists place genetic biomarkers and have participants perform routine cognitive measurements to evaluate the participants before they show any symptoms of cognitive decline. As a result, the scientific community can monitor specific genes for changes and can mark those for continued study.
What is the Goal?
A simple genetic test could reveal which members of the family had the gene mutation that would guarantee they would get early-onset Alzheimer’s. “The question is,” said Sean Bohen, Genetech’s Senior Vice President of Early Development, “if we intervene before cognitive function deteriorates, can we prevent the disease?”
How Can You Actively Work to Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer’s?
There are actionable steps you can take to reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease today including:
- Taking care of your mental health
- Avoiding or quitting Smoking
- Eatting Healthier
- Getting More Exercise
To read more about each one in detail, check out our blog How to Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease.
As recommended by 60-Minutes, for more information, visit the Alzheimer’s Prevention Registry, a registry anyone 18 years or older can sign up for. Do you part and continue to follow and support Alzheimer’s research.
