Unlocking the Link: How Genetic and Lifestyle Factors Connect Down Syndrome to Dementia – A New Study

New Delhi, March 1 (IANS)—A new study from US researchers sheds light on why some people with Down syndrome develop dementia while others do not. It turns out that both genetic makeup and lifestyle choices may play a major role in this issue.

People with Down syndrome face a high risk—over 90%—of developing dementia, mostly due to Alzheimer’s disease as they age. Yet, the exact reasons behind this connection remained unclear until now.

Down syndrome occurs when people have an extra copy of chromosome 21, which affects brain and body development. Alzheimer’s, on the other hand, is a progressive brain disorder that gradually disrupts memory and thinking skills.

In a groundbreaking study from the universities of Pittsburgh and California, researchers observed the progression of Alzheimer’s in a woman with Down syndrome over a decade. After she passed away, she donated her brain for further research.

Jr-Jiun Liou, a postdoctoral scholar at the University of Pittsburgh, highlighted the importance of merging neuroimaging with neuropathology. They want to link these studies to enhance diagnosis and treatment for individuals with Down syndrome. Using high-resolution MRI scans, Liou examined her brain.

Interestingly, this woman appeared cognitively stable right until her death. However, the brain scans showed signs of Alzheimer’s disease. “All our assessments indicated that she was cognitively stable, making this case especially intriguing,” Liou noted.

The researchers propose that her cognitive stability may have stemmed from her high level of education or unexplored genetic factors. The findings, published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia, present a unique chance to identify what contributes to cognitive preservation.

“If we can pinpoint the genetic traits or lifestyle choices that helped her brain function well despite the presence of Alzheimer’s markers, we might discover helpful strategies for others,” the research team stated.

Source link