US scientists examined the effects of the gene APOE, which encodes the protein responsible for transporting fat into and out of cells. They found that the APOE4 gene was associated with higher levels of a specific enzyme that, in turn, helps fat accumulate more easily.
The research provides further insight into how Alzheimer's disease could be combated and possibly even prevented. However, scientists say further studies are needed to determine the exact cause of the disease and how best to treat it. The study was published in the specialist magazine ‘Nature’, which is published by the University of Pennsylvania and the journal of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. For confidential support call the Samaritans in the UK on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org for details. In the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255 or click here for information on how to get in touch.