Watch CBS News

Research finds Alzheimer's may be passed down more than previously thought

Research finds genetics plays bigger role in Alzheimer's than previously thought
Research finds genetics plays bigger role in Alzheimer's than previously thought 00:37

BOSTON - Alzheimer's disease may be passed down in families more than previously thought.

Genetic forms of Alzheimer's were thought to be incredibly rare and only occur at much younger ages. However, researchers in Spain and in the U.S. studied more than 3,000 brains and data from another 10,000 people and found that carrying two copies of a gene that has been linked to Alzheimer's is not just a risk factor but an underlying cause and could account for 1 in 6 cases of the disease.

Scientists said it has become crucial to develop treatments to target this particular gene.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.