| Scientists link genetic mutations to the progression of Alzheimer's |
| Wednesday, 01 June 2011 10:11 |
|
Recently, researchers from Spain and the U.S. examined a group of genes called the MS4A cluster, located on chromosome 11. They combined their data and took a closer look at some of the small genetic defects that may occur in this region of the genome. "We were able to confirm the presence of mutations known to be associated with Alzheimer's disease, including those within the MS4A cluster, and we also found a novel site," lead investigator Agustin Ruiz explained. He added that several of the genes in this group have been implicated in the activities of the immune system, and that this finding provides new evidence for the role of the body's defensive response to disease in the progression of Alzheimer's. |

Americans who are turning 65 or older may face an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, the only condition on the list of top ten causes of death in the U.S. that has no known cure, according to the Alzheimer's Association.
