Researchers have discovered a crucial genetic link between Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and various disorders related to coronary artery disease (CAD) as well as lipid classes, which may lead to better health outcomes for two of Australia’s leading causes of death.
Researchers at Edith Cowan University’s (ECU’s) Centre for Precision Health have discovered a crucial genetic link between Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and various disorders related to coronary artery disease (CAD) as well as lipid classes, which may lead to better health outcomes for two of Australia’s leading causes of death.
The recent study identified that several factors related to heart disease, including angina, arteriosclerosis, ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, and CAD, along with lipids such as cholesterol, triglycerides, and both high- and low-density lipoproteins (HDL and LDL), might stem from similar biological origins as AD.
This indicates that certain genes are involved or associated across these different conditions.
Lead researcher and PhD candidate at the Centre for Precision Health, Ms. Artika Kirby, stated, “There is substantial evidence from observational studies indicating a link between these conditions. However, we still have limited understanding of the complex biological mechanisms of AD, and its connection to lipids and CAD traits is not yet clear.”
“Our research utilized genetic methods to explore the complex interrelations of these coexisting conditions, providing new insights into the shared biological foundations of these issues. I believe our findings can pave the way for new research opportunities that could positively impact millions globally.”
Professor Simon Laws, Director of the Centre for Precision Health and co-supervisor of the project, commented, “The Centre for Precision Health’s advanced statistical genetics techniques are significantly enhancing our comprehension of the interconnections among many prevalent health issues — this study highlights the effectiveness of this approach.”
Dementia, primarily caused by AD, and coronary artery or heart disease are the leading causes of death in Australia. Researchers suggest there may be deeper connections between these conditions than merely their link to adverse health outcomes.
Growing evidence associates CAD with cognitive decline and an increased risk for dementia, indicating that individuals diagnosed with CAD may experience a faster decline in cognitive function, with CAD patients having a 26% higher chance of developing dementia. However, the exact nature of the relationship and the underlying mechanisms linking CAD, AD, and cognitive impairments remain uncertain.
The ties between CAD and AD might be influenced by shared risk factors, such as dyslipidaemia and inflammation. Both lipid disorders and CAD greatly affect health and are known significant risk factors for AD, similar to the reported association between CAD and AD.
Additionally, there could be shared genetic risk factors among all these elements.
Dr. Emmanuel Adewuyi, NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellow and project co-supervisor, noted, “By applying genetic techniques to better understand the relationship between AD and coronary heart disease — the two primary causes of death in Australia — we have gained new insights into the fundamental mechanisms linking these conditions.”
“These insights could lead to enhancements in patient care and outcomes for these two major health concerns, not just in Australia, but globally.”
The study titled “Investigating Genetic Overlap Between Alzheimer’s Disease, Lipids and Coronary Artery Disease” has been published in the International Journal of Molecular Science.
