Genetic Secrets: How Old Your Brain Really Is!

Genetic Secrets: How Old Your Brain Really Is!

A new study by the Humboldt University in Berlin is investigating the genetic causes and modifiable risks of the so-called Brain Age Gap (BAG). This term describes the difference between the chronological age and the biological age of the brain, which is determined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The study aims to understand why some brains age faster and what factors play a role. The basis for the research is the British UK Biobank, which provides data from over 56,000 participants.

The results were published in the scientific journalNature agingpublished. Researchers identified 59 gene regions that influence the rate of brain aging, with 39 of these regions linked to brain aging for the first time. Particularly well-known genes such as MAPT and APOE, both of which are associated with the risk of Alzheimer's disease, were also examined. These findings expand understanding of how genetics and environmental risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking and alcohol consumption are related.

Relationships between genetics and risk factors

The research shows that high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes are genetically linked to an increased risk of premature brain aging. In addition, genetic correlations with mental and physical health factors as well as social aspects have been identified. This underlines the close connection between genetic factors and modifiable risks.

The importance of these findings lies in the possibility of contributing to the prevention of dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases through a better understanding of risk factors. The study was not only carried out by the Humboldt University, but also in collaboration with the Charité, the University of Leipzig and the Max Planck Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences.

International perspectives on genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease

The analysis of the genetic risks for Alzheimer's is complemented by an international study carried out inNature Geneticswas published. This study, coordinated by the European Alzheimer's and Dementia Biobank (EADB) consortium, is the first in the world to examine polygenic risk scores (PRS) in relation to Alzheimer's disease. The study involved researchers from different parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America and Australia.

The research identified two genetic signatures for complex forms of Alzheimer's disease: a signature strongly associated with apolipoprotein E (APOE) and a second that includes about 75 genetic variants. Interestingly, the second signature shows consistency across populations, suggesting a common biological mechanism for the disease.

This research has the potential to advance precision medicine by making it possible to tailor treatments specifically to genetic characteristics. The PRS values ​​are based on a recent Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) on Alzheimer's disease and could help improve clinical trials by identifying individuals at high genetic risk.

In summary, genetic factors play a crucial role in understanding and combating neurodegenerative diseases. The dialogue between these different research approaches promises to gain deeper insights into the complexity of the human brain and the challenges in aging research.

You can find more information in the studies: Humboldt University of Berlin, PubMed, IDW Online.