Early Risk Of Alzheimer's May Be Identified By Combining Brain Imaging And Genetic Analysis

This article discusses a study in which researchers may have discovered a  variation of a specific gene that may play a role in late-onset Alzheimer's.  The participants were genotyped to see who carried the  variation of the BDNF gene called val66met, a gene important in maintaining healthy brain functioning.  The researchers then used two types of brain imaging techniques (MRI & DTI) to measure the physical structures of the brain.  This study found that the BDNF val66met gene variation influenced exactly those brain structures and connections that deteriorate at the earliest phases of Alzheimer's disease.

This new technique for detecting Alzeihmer's before patients display outward symptoms can help in delaying the progression of Alzheimer's and can also save the healthcare system money in the longrun.