One of the best ways to understand the genetics underlying Alzheimer’s disease is through large DNA studies. These studies are known as genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and involve analysing the genetic make-up of people with and without Alzheimer’s or other causes of dementia, in great detail. GWAS studies have ‘flagged up’ different versions of certain genes that can affect a person’s risk of developing the disease and often end up in the headlines. However, we still have a lot to learn about how these genetic variations affect Alzheimer’s disease risk. Scientists are now also turning to more subtle genetic changes called epigenetics to look for clues. In this blog, we will explore how epigenetic changes may influence the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Read more at Alzheimer’s Research UK Blog.