Yeni Alzheimer Risk Genleri Keşfedildi Araştırması: Genç bir Gazeteci
Alzheimer’s disease is a challenging condition that affects millions of people worldwide. However, recent research has shed new light on this debilitating disease. Scientists from Mass General Brigham conducted a groundbreaking study that discovered 16 new susceptibility genes associated with Alzheimer’s disease. This study, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, marks a significant advancement in our understanding of the disease, particularly in underrepresented groups.
Led by Julian Daniel Sunday Willett, MD, PhD, and Mohammad Waqas, the research team used whole-genome sequencing to analyze 49,149 individuals, including those clinically diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and those with a family history of the condition. What sets this study apart is its inclusion of participants from diverse ancestries, with nearly half coming from non-European backgrounds. This approach allowed researchers to identify 16 novel genetic signals associated with Alzheimer’s disease, emphasizing the importance of studying diverse populations to gain a comprehensive understanding of the disease.
Looking ahead, co-senior author Dmitry Prokopenko, PhD, shared that the team plans to expand their analysis by doubling the sample size and conducting a gene-based rare variant analysis. By combining the signals of rare variants within genes, the researchers hope to further refine their understanding of the genetic underpinnings of Alzheimer’s disease.
In a statement, co-senior author Rudolph Tanzi, PhD, expressed his optimism about the study’s findings, highlighting the potential for more accurate risk predictions and the discovery of new treatment targets for Alzheimer’s disease in diverse populations. The study’s implications extend beyond scientific research, offering hope for improved care and prevention strategies for individuals of various ancestries.
The publication of this study in Alzheimer’s & Dementia represents a significant milestone in Alzheimer’s research, paving the way for future investigations into the genetic factors influencing the disease. By embracing diversity and inclusivity in their research, the team at Mass General Brigham has opened new avenues for understanding and combating Alzheimer’s disease on a global scale.
As we continue to unravel the complexities of Alzheimer’s disease, studies like this serve as beacons of hope, guiding us towards a future where effective treatments and preventive measures are within reach for all individuals, regardless of their genetic background. The journey towards a world free of Alzheimer’s disease is long and challenging, but with each new discovery, we move one step closer to that goal.
