Gene variation 'predicts mental decline'
Tuesday 25th October 2011
Gene variation is able to predict the rate of age-related decline in cognitive performance, researchers have found.
A study published in journal Translational Psychiatry revealed that having one version of a single gene doubled the rate at which the participants' mental performance declined over time, compared to those with a different coding of the gene.
While this genetic variation has been linked to several psychiatric disorders in previous studies, this is the first time it has been studied with regards to a healthy, ageing brain.
The study also found a significant age-related decline in the size of key brain region the hippocampus in participants carrying this polymorphism.
While the study was carried out on experienced airline pilots, the results do not apply only to those in this occupation, according to senior study author Ahmad Salehi.
"This gene-associated difference may apply not only to pilots but also to the general public, for example in the ability to operate complex machinery," he said.
Written by James Puckle
Related articles
Chemical to tackle breast cancer found in celery
Doctors and those in biomedical science jobs have long been searching for a definitive treatment to help treat breast cancer, but...
Thursday 17th May 2012
Prostate cancer drug set to be approved
A prostate cancer drug is set to be approved and put into use across NHS services after previously being rejected. The...
Wednesday 16th May 2012
Blindness could be treated with diabetes drug
Blindness is one condition that many people fear, the debilitating effect that it has can change a person's life forever. ...
Wednesday 9th May 2012
Related Biomedical-Science Jobs
Job Title: BMS Histologist Job City of London Brief Details Experienced Histologist BMS needed for a on going permanant...
Full infoBiochemistry Locum BMS needed for exclusive job placements in Manchester.Experienced locum BMS in Biochemistry required for an on-going...
Full infoMediplacements are currently seeking experienced Biomedical Scientists for both locum and permanent vacancies across the Scotland,...
Full info