There are genetic factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease. These genetic markers are identified at Washington University School of Medicine by Alison M. Goate and John C. Morris. The genes recently identified are called clustrin (APOJ) on chromosome 8 and PICALM on chromosome 11. The clustrin gene is thought to be associated with the tendency to accumulation of amyloid and plaques. The PICALM gene is thought to be related to the breakdown of synapses and could lead to amyloid deposits. This research encompassed DNA samples of 19000 individuals and 600,ooo markers. A gene called APOE4 was found to be related to the late onset form of the disease. Association with chronic sleep deprivation identified as a risk factor.
