Why some people escape Alzheimer’s despite carrying a high-risk gene
Researchers have identified a rare genetic mutation in the fibronectin gene that protects the brain's blood vessels from damage in people carrying the high-risk Alzheimer's gene APOE 4. This discovery provides a potential new target for developing Alzheimer's treatments.
Why it matters
Understanding how some individuals naturally resist Alzheimer's could lead to breakthrough therapies that mimic this protection in high-risk patients.
Some people carry one of the strongest genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease yet never develop it, remaining mentally sharp well into their 80s. For years, scientists have wondered what protects these individuals despite their increased genetic vulnerability.
Now, researchers at Columbia University have uncovered a biological mechanism that could help explain this remarkable resistance. Their findings point to a rare genetic mutation that protects the brain's blood vessels from damage, potentially opening a new path toward Alzheimer's treatments.
The discovery builds on research the team published two years ago involving APOE 4, a gene variant strongly associated with Alzheimer's risk. The scientists found that some people carrying APOE 4 also possess a rare protective mutation in the fibronectin (FN1) gene.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in