Brain Cells: Alzheimer’s Clues

July 7, 2004 | Source: Reuters

The genetic mutations that lie behind most cases of Alzheimer’s disease may be found in mitochondrial DNA.

Several mutations have been linked to early-onset Alzheimer’s, but it has been difficult to pin down a cause of the most common form, known as late-onset, sporadic Alzheimer’s.

The mutations are associated with reductions in the total amount of mitochondrial DNA. It could be that they impair energy production in the cells, increase the generation of free radicals that can damage cells, and destroy the connections between brain cells. Or they could be a symptom rather than a cause.