Data Sharing Uncovers Five New Risk Genes for Alzheimer's Disease

A study published in Nature Genetics detailed five new risk genes for Alzheimer's and verified 20 known others, reports the National Institutes of Health . The findings add credibility to evidence that groups of genes lined to specific biological processes, such as cell trafficking, lipid transport, inflammation, and the immune response, are "genetic hubs" that play a key role in the disease process. "This continuing collaborative research into the genetic underpinnings of Alzheimer's is allowing us to dig deeper into the complexities of this devastating disease," said National Institute on Aging Director Richard J. Hodes. "The size of this study provides additional clarity on the genes to prioritize as we continue to better understand and target ways to treat and prevent Alzheimer's." The researchers analyzed genetic data from more than 94,000 individuals with late onset Alzheimer's. Once the functions of the five genes newly associated with the disorder — IQCK, ACE, ADAM10, ADAMTS1, and WWOX — are understood and examined in conjunction with the functions of the 20 known genes, scientists will be in a better position to identify where the genetic hubs of Alzheimer's are clustering. This could enable them to more deeply probe these genetic hubs to reveal disease mechanisms and potential drug targets.