RESEARCH: ALZHEIMERS
FOLDING PROJECT #18215 PROFILE

Alzheimer's disease is a serious problem with no cure. The project relates to ApoE, a protein linked to Alzheimer's. Different versions of ApoE can protect against or increase the risk of Alzheimer's. Scientists are using computer simulations to understand how these different ApoE versions work and hope to find new ways to treat Alzheimer's.

Alzheimer's disease is a significant cause of death in the USA and there are no effective treatments to halt or reverse disease progression.

Genetic polymorphisms (changes to the amino acids that comprise the protein) in apolipoprotein E (ApoE) are one of the strongest predictors of Alzheimer’s disease.

There are three dominant alleles (versions) of ApoE that are found in humans.

Each ApoE allele differs only by a single amino acid substitution.

ApoE3 is most common and carries a neutral risk for AD.

Carriers of ApoE2 (R158C) appear protected from Alzehimer's disease, whereas ApoE4 (C112R) carriers are 12-fold more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease.

Finally, a recent variant in ApoE3, ApoEchristchurch (R136S) has emerged which also appears to protect from Alzheimer's disease.

How these mutations in ApoE contribute to Alzheimer's disease, as well as how mutations in ApoE impact ApoE function, remains unclear. It is clear that ApoE isoforms can protect from Alzheimer's, suggesting that ApoE targeted therapeutics may be a means of reversing or preventing Alzheimer's disease progression.

Here, we will simulate how one varaiants of ApoE move in solution.

We hope these simulations will lead to a better understanding of how ApoE contributes to Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease

A progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline.

Alzheimer's disease is a serious brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills. It affects millions of people worldwide and has no cure. Scientists are working hard to understand the causes of Alzheimer's and develop effective treatments.

ApoE

Apolipoprotein E

ApoE is a protein that helps transport fats (lipids) in the body. It plays a role in brain health and different versions of ApoE can influence the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

Genetic polymorphisms

Variations in DNA sequences among individuals.

Genetic polymorphisms are slight differences in people's DNA. These variations can affect how our bodies work and influence our risk for certain diseases like Alzheimer's.

Alleles

Alternative forms of a gene.

Alleles are different versions of the same gene. For example, a person might inherit one allele for brown eyes and one allele for blue eyes from their parents.

Amino acids

The building blocks of proteins.

Amino acids are the small units that link together to form long chains called proteins. Proteins are essential for all living things and perform many important functions in the body.

Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence.

Mutations are alterations in the genetic code. They can be caused by errors during DNA replication or exposure to mutagens like radiation. Some mutations can have harmful effects, while others may be neutral or even beneficial.