Could the Key to Good Memory be Found in Our Genes?

This study was conducted by Professor Ian Deary of the University of Edinburgh in the UK. His goal was to find small genetic variants that contribute to memory. Data was collected from previous studies and 30,000 patients over the age of 45 were dementia free for the experiment. Low memory scores were associated with a gene called Apolipoprotein E. Previous research has linked this gene to increased cases of dementia. A mutation in the gene involved with immune responses played a role as well. Scientists hope to conduct further studies accounting for age and how the immune system lacking contributes as well.

This study interested me greatly, considering how often Alzheimer's and other memory related health issues occur in humans. Patients that have these problems are truly helpless at a certain stage, and if more is known about how you can receive this the chances of receiving them could be much less frequent and even save lives. Prevention could also take place, another way to avoid suffering from memory related issues.

Main Article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/286106.php

Genes Could be the Key to a Good Memory

A study was conducted to find a connection between genetic variants and the ability to remember stories and lists. This study is the first of its kind.

The researchers had participants who were all free of dementia take memory tests. The tests consisted of remembering stories and words after a certain period of time.

The researchers analyzed the results of the tests in conjunction with individual genome information. They then determined which genetic variants were linked with lower memory test scores. The results for individuals who possessed certain genetic variants showed early signs of Alzheimer’s disease.

The individuals found to have lower scores were found to have variants near the Apolipoprotein E gene, which is involved in immunity. Some previous research has shown that a number of forms of Apolipoprotein E are connected to a higher risk for dementia and related diseases.

The researchers also studied over 700 postmortem brain tissue samples. After studying the samples, they determined that individuals with the genetic variants studied in this experiment were more likely to have signs of Alzheimer’s.

They hope that their discoveries can help scientists understand the link between genes, immune systems, and memory loss due to age.

This article was interesting to read but not surprising to me. It's clear that our genes affect nearly everything about us, so it always seemed likely that genes would affect memory and aging as well. Hopefully, this helps scientists and clinical professionals better understand the exact sources of problems to either fix them or help improve treatment options for aging patients.

Article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/286106.php
Secondary Link: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/265432.php

Researchers Find Genetic Linkage to Memory

Researchers of a study have found that a gene that can cause dementia also can impair memory ability.  In the study of 30,000 people that did not have dementia, each person was put through multiple memory tests and each person's entire genome was sequenced.  The Apolipoprotein E gene was linked to poor memory, especially the older participants.  There were also two other genetic linkages to the immune system that also affect the ability to recall word lists.

This huge study of 30,000 people is unprecedented, so more research is needed to confirm the genetic linkages.

This research will help pave the way for people to take preventative action if they are susceptible to memory loss and/or dementia.   In addition, the inheritability of memory function can be more closely researched.