Is Alzheimer's disease hereditary

Answer 1

Familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD) or early-onset Alzheimer's is an inherited, rare form of the disease, affecting less than 10 percent of Alzheimer's disease patients. FAD develops before age 65, in people as young as 35. It is caused by one of three gene mutations on chromosomes 1, 14 and 21. If even one of these mutated genes is inherited from a parent, the person will almost always develop FAD. All offspring in the same generation have a 50/50 chance of developing FAD if one parent has it. The majority of Alzheimer's disease cases are late-onset, usually developing after age 65. Late-onset Alzheimer's disease has no known cause and shows no obvious inheritance pattern. However, in some families, clusters of cases are seen. Although a specific gene has not been identified as the cause of late-onset Alzheimer's disease, genetic factors do appear to play a role in the development of this form of the disease. A gene called Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) appears to be a risk factor for the late-onset form of AD. There are three forms of this gene: ApoE2, ApoE3 and ApoE4. Roughly one in four Americans has ApoE4 and one in twenty has ApoE2. While inheritance of ApoE4 increases the risk of developing AD, ApoE2 substantially protects against the disease. Scientists believe that several other genes may influence development of Alzheimer's disease. Two of these genes, UBQLN1 and SORL1, are located on chromosomes 9 and 11. Researchers have also identified three genes on chromosome 10, one of which produces an insulin degrading enzyme that may contribute to the disease. Genetic risk factors alone are not enough to cause the late-onset form of Alzheimer's disease, so researchers are actively exploring education, diet and environment to learn what role they might play in the development of this disease.

Answer 2

resent research has shown that there is an increased risk of Alzeimers the APOE4 gene and increased production of amyloid. Amyliod is a protean found in the brain that scientists believe is connected with Alzheimer's and dementia.

Answer 3

Unfortunately, yes this is one of the diseases that is hereditary that can be passed from our grandparents, parents, etc. etc down to us. My grandmother had it on my moms side and it was just as miserable for us and I am sure it may have been for her when she was coherent. Lots of Prayer~

Answer 4

Yes, if your relatives had it, you have a higher risk of getting it yourself. But a person can still get it even if noone else in their family has ever had it.

Answer 5

Yes, unfortunately the disease, Alzheimer's, is hereditary.

Answer 6

I cant remember..

Answer 7

It isn't