The Multifactorial Brain: Why Dementia Isn’t Just About Genetics

Taking a closer look at the underlying causes of cognitive decline

AI Image generated by Leonardo.ai

Cognitive decline, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are NOT inevitable destinations for those with the APOE4 allele.

What is the APOE4 allele, you ask?

The APOE gene provides the blueprint for building the apolipoprotein E. One function this lipoprotein has is to shuttle fat and cholesterol around the body.

It has particular importance in the brain, where fat and cholesterol are needed in high demand for brain cell repair and remodelling.

Please see the diagram below for the three main alleles (genetic variation) and their influence on Alzheimer’s risk.

Image screenshotted from AI Overview on Google

Those with the e4 allele carry a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, but it is not deterministic. So you can have this allele and make it through life with no Alzheimer’s.

Plenty of genetic testing exists out there for those looking to see their APOE status. I have partnered with and recommend The DNA Company because of the amount of detail and…