An international study coordinated by the European Alzheimer’s and Dementia Biobank (EADB) consortium has for the first time investigated genetic risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease in different population groups worldwide. The results, published in Nature Genetics, reveal both universal and population-specific genetic predispositions and pave the way for more precise, inclusive treatment approaches. The team of Prof. Dr. Dr. Alfredo Ramirez from the University Hospital of Cologne and the Cluster of Excellence CECAD was involved in the study.

The researchers analyzed genetic data from Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America and Australia and calculated polygenic risk scores (PRS) that reflect genetic susceptibility to Alzheimer’s disease. They identified two genetic signatures: one is largely determined by the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene, the influence of which varies depending on the population. The second is based on around 75 other genetic variants that uniformly influence the risk of Alzheimer’s worldwide and point to a common biological mechanism.

The study shows that PRS is specific to Alzheimer’s disease and does not apply to other forms of dementia, which underlines the need for precise diagnoses. In addition, PRS could improve clinical trials by identifying individuals at high genetic risk. The importance of including previously underrepresented population groups, such as those from Latin America, where Ramirez’s team has been conducting research for years, is particularly emphasized.

The findings promote the understanding of the biological basis of Alzheimer’s and support the development of targeted therapies. They emphasize the need for global cooperation in order to take genetic diversity into account and create equal health opportunities.

Original Paper:

Transferability of European-derived Alzheimer’s disease polygenic risk scores across multiancestry populations | Nature Genetics

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