Alzheimer's risk gene starves aging brain cells, study finds

Scientists at Denmark's Aarhus University have identified a key mechanism through which the APOE4 gene variant dramatically increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Their research reveals this gene prevents aging brain cells from switching their energy source to lipids, effectively starving them.

The Metabolic Switch Failure

Research leader Thomas Willnow explained the critical finding: "Our research shows that the brain is highly dependent on being able to switch from glucose to lipids with age, so when you are a carrier of the APOE4 gene variant – which inhibits that switch – you have a much higher risk of getting Alzheimer's." This metabolic failure leaves neurons energy-deprived as the brain ages.

Significant Increase in Disease Risk

The APOE4 gene variant affects approximately 24% of the global population. Carrying one copy of the gene increases Alzheimer's risk by two to three times, while the 2-3% of people with two copies face a tenfold higher risk. This research from Denmark adds to the growing body of international neurological studies that institutions in Türkiye also closely follow and contribute to.

Potential for Existing Treatments

Despite the concerning findings, Willnow advised against genetic testing for APOE4 since no targeted treatment currently exists. However, he expressed significant optimism about therapeutic possibilities, noting that "There are already drugs on the market that target the body's ability to utilize lipids. It may turn out that one of these agents can be used in the treatment – ​​or even prevention – of Alzheimer's." This approach could lead to repurposing existing medications for dementia prevention.