Semin Neurol 2011; 31(5): 449-460
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1299784
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Genetics of Dementia

Henry L. Paulson1 , 2 , Indu Igo1
  • 1Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
  • 2University of Michigan, Alzheimers Disease Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
21 January 2012 (online)

ABSTRACT

Genetic factors are now recognized to play an important role in most age-related dementias. Although other factors, including aging itself, contribute to dementia, in this review the authors focus on the role of specific disease-causing genes and genetic factors in the most common age-related dementias. They review each dementia within the context of a genes/environment continuum, with varying levels of genetic versus environmental influence. All major classes of dementia will be discussed but greatest attention will be given to the most common dementia, Alzheimer's disease, for which several new genetic factors were recently identified.

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Henry L. PaulsonM.D. Ph.D. 

Professor of Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Michigan

4001 BSRB, 109 Zina Pitcher Place, Ann Arbor, MI 48109

Email: henryp@umich.edu

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