Scientists identify Alzheimer's gene in study

Scientists have identified a new gene that may raise the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, a discovery that may help scientists develop new treatments. After analyzing DNA from over 6,000 patients, researchers identified SORL1 as a candidate. It’s too soon, however, to make any conclusive decisions. Dr. Sam Gandy doubts that this new gene is as significant in Alzheimer’s development as the previous discovery of the gene APOE. After analyzing patient history, lab studies were also done. Researchers found that when they suppressed the activity of SORL1, cells made greater amounts of amyloid beta, a substance thought to play a key role in causing Alzheimer's. This is a promising development in Alzheimer’s research and may lead to a better understanding of the disease.

http://www.cnn.com/2007/HEALTH/conditions/01/14/alzheimers.gene.ap/index.html