New Genetic Markers for Alzheimer’s Disease Identified in Korean Population, Paving Way for early Detection & Targeted Treatments
Seoul, South Korea – In a meaningful breakthrough for Alzheimer’s research, a team of Korean scientists has identified several genetic factors uniquely linked to the development of Alzheimer’s disease within the Korean population. the findings, published recently in Nature Communications, promise to improve early disease prediction and open doors to more personalized treatment strategies.
For decades, Alzheimer’s research has largely focused on genetic data from European populations. This has presented a challenge in accurately assessing risk and developing effective therapies for individuals of Asian descent,where genetic predispositions can differ significantly. This new research directly addresses that gap.
Researchers at the National Institute of Health, Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in collaboration with teams from Sungkyunkwan University and korea University, analyzed both the complete genetic information (full-length genome) and brain imaging data from korean dementia patients. This integrated approach allowed them to pinpoint three key genetic factors – SORL1, APCDD1, and DRC7 - that play a crucial role in the disease’s progression.
“Our research identified genetic factors that directly link beta-amyloid accumulation – a hallmark of Alzheimer’s – with cognitive decline in Korean patients,” explained a lead researcher involved in the project. “This provides compelling new evidence for early disease prediction and the discovery of targeted treatment options based on precision medicine.”
The study highlights the importance of considering genetic diversity when studying complex diseases like Alzheimer’s. Genetic factors are estimated to account for 60-80% of an individual’s overall risk of developing the disease. Previous genome-wide association studies (GWAS) frequently enough relied solely on clinical diagnoses, failing to account for actual amyloid accumulation in the brain.
Specifically, the research team found that the SORL1 gene plays a critical role in suppressing beta-amyloid accumulation. This gene regulates the transport and breakdown of amyloid precursor protein (APP). Reduced SORL1 function leads to increased amyloid buildup,thereby elevating the risk of Alzheimer’s.
The South Korean government has announced its commitment to leveraging these findings to build a foundation for early disease prediction and customized treatment plans. This research represents a vital step forward in the fight against Alzheimer’s, offering hope for more effective prevention and intervention strategies tailored to the Korean population – and potentially informing research globally.
Keywords: Alzheimer’s Disease, dementia, Genetics, Korea, Research, SORL1, APCDD1, DRC7, Beta-Amyloid, Precision Medicine, Brain Imaging, Genomics, Nature Communications, National Institute of Health.
