I chose this topic as I find it amazing that scientists can pick the EXACT gene that causes such a dominant disease in our society. Anything that can help put a stop or help us control this, is more than welcome research.
There are two types of Alzheimer's Disease: early-onset and late-onset both of which have genetic links, however, the study of the APP gene is mostly on late-onset.
The new discovery of the APP gene has made some causes of late-onset Alzheimer's clearer.
Gene mutation on chromosomes which cause chromosome proteins is the major cause. APP makes the protein A-beta, which form together in the brain and block functions such as speech and memory leading to Alzheimer's.
In terms of heredity, if only one copy of the mutated APP gene is inherited from both parents, less A-beta proteins can form therefore making the occurrence of Alzheimer's Disease less likely; forming a sort of protection against the disease.
The discovery of this A-beta protein means that the conditions that occur in the 'one copy' brain can be mimicked using drugs. This means that the body can form its own 'protection' even if a person has two copies of the mutated gene.
Whether this treatment works or not, the discovery of the APP mutation changes the way Alzheimer's Disease is looked at even though it is known that even one copy of the gene is enough to cause the disease.
References:
1. http://kclmlc.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/dna_alzheimers.jpg
2. http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn16750-paradoxical-gene-causes-and-protects-against-alzheimers.html?full=true&print=true
3.http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/geneticsfs.htm
4. http://www.topnews.in/health/files/alzheimers-brain.jpg4.
