Understanding genes that change Alzheimer's risk linked to APOE
Genetic modifiers of APOE-related risk for AD
This project looks at existing genetic information to find other genes that might change when Alzheimer's disease starts for people with different APOE gene types.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Jacksonville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Jacksonville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11105833 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that the APOE gene strongly influences a person's risk for Alzheimer's disease, with some versions increasing risk and others decreasing it. However, even among people with the same APOE gene type, the age at which Alzheimer's symptoms appear can vary by many years. This suggests that other genes might be at play, either protecting against or increasing the risk of earlier onset. Researchers are carefully examining large sets of existing genetic data to pinpoint these additional genes that modify Alzheimer's risk and the age of onset.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is based on analyzing existing data from individuals aged 21 and older with or without Alzheimer's dementia, particularly those with specific APOE gene variations.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have Alzheimer's disease or are not interested in genetic risk factors for the condition may not directly benefit from this specific genetic analysis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of why Alzheimer's disease affects people differently, potentially opening doors for new ways to predict risk or develop personalized treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary analyses have already identified specific gene variants (TREM2 and EIF2B3) as potential modifiers, suggesting a promising direction for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Jacksonville, United States
- Mayo Clinic Jacksonville — Jacksonville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goate, Alison M — Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
- Study coordinator: Goate, Alison M
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.