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Review
. 2017;57(2):317-330.
doi: 10.3233/JAD-161149.

Recent Progress in Alzheimer's Disease Research, Part 2: Genetics and Epidemiology

Affiliations
Free PMC article
Review

Recent Progress in Alzheimer's Disease Research, Part 2: Genetics and Epidemiology

Morgan Robinson et al. J Alzheimers Dis. 2017.
Free PMC article

Erratum in

Abstract

This is the second part of a three-part review series reviewing the most important advances in Alzheimer's disease (AD) research since 2010. This review covers the latest research on genetics and epidemiology. Epidemiological and genetic studies are revealing important insights into the etiology of, and factors that contribute to AD, as well as areas of priority for research into mechanisms and interventions. The widespread adoption of genome wide association studies has provided compelling evidence of the genetic complexity of AD with genes associated with such diverse physiological function as immunity and lipid metabolism being implicated in AD pathogenesis.

Keywords: APOE; Alzheimer’s disease; amyloid precursor protein; epidemiology; factors; genetics.

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Figures

Fig.1
Fig.1
Genetic risk factors for AD and their general role in physiological function. High risk genes are associated with increased severity of the disease and earlier age of onset, with low risk genetic factors age of onset is delayed and disease severity is less. The area of each circle is proportional to each genes’ population attributable fraction (PAF). “Larger” genes have a greater influence of AD within the population. Figure adapted with permission [64].

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