Genetic research identifies Alzheimer's risk factor and regional health predispositions

Researchers from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and other institutions have identified a genetic variant that may significantly increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease. The study, published in Nature Neuroscience, found that longer repetitions of a DNA sequence known as CCG are associated with the disease and increased activity of the FAM193B gene, which is linked to cellular damage.

In a study of Chinese cohorts, individuals with at least 18 repetitions in the longest copy of this segment showed approximately double the statistical chance of having the disease compared to those with up to 11 repetitions. This association was also observed in participants of European ancestry.

Separately, an analysis of 650,000 genetic tests conducted by Genera (Dasa) revealed regional differences in genetic predisposition to various diseases within Brazil. The study found that high-risk proportions vary by region: the North shows higher indices for glaucoma and prostate cancer; the South for melanoma and migraines; and the Southeast for breast cancer. Experts noted that these genetic risk scores must be considered alongside environmental, behavioral, and social factors.