Researchers uncover a new gene tied to Alzheimer's risk, revealing exciting implications for future treatments.
The ADAMTS2 gene shows a 1.5x higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
The first large-scale genetic study of African American brain tissue with confirmed Alzheimer's cases.
This gene regulates collagen formation, vital for maintaining brain structure.
Overactive ADAMTS2 disrupts Reelin, crucial for brain protection against tau tangles.
Disruption leads to faster accumulation of tau and amyloid, hallmark features of Alzheimer's.
The study analyzed 212 African American brain samples, leading to significant findings.
Results confirmed in European ancestry studies, showing consistent findings across populations.
65 genes showed consistent changes in both African American and European groups.
Targeting ADAMTS2 could pave the way for new Alzheimer's treatments.
Lowering ADAMTS2 activity may delay Alzheimer's symptoms in early-stage patients.
U.S. Alzheimer's cases expected to rise from 7M today to nearly 14M by 2060.
The study emphasizes the need for diverse populations in research for effective treatments.