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New Delhi, India – March 1, 2025 – A groundbreaking study by US researchers has shed light on the complex relationship between Down syndrome and dementia, suggesting that genetic and lifestyle factors may play a crucial role in determining why some individuals with Down syndrome develop dementia while others do not.
It is well-established that people with Down syndrome have a significantly elevated risk—over 90 percent—of developing dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease as they age. However, the underlying mechanisms connecting these conditions have remained largely unknown.
The research, conducted by teams from the universities of Pittsburgh and California, focused on a unique case study involving a woman with Down syndrome who participated in the study for a decade and donated her brain for research post-mortem.
Jr-Jiun Liou, a postdoctoral scholar in the department of bioengineering at the University of Pittsburgh, utilized high-resolution MRI scans to image the participant’s brain. Despite her cognitive stability at the time of her death, the MRI scans revealed neuropathological changes indicative of Alzheimer’s disease.
“Before she passed away, all the clinical assessments in our years of studying her indicated that she was cognitively stable, which is why this case is so fascinating,” Liou explained. “Despite her brain’s pathology indicating Alzheimer’s, we think that her cognitive stability could have been attributed to her high education level or underlying genetic factors.”
The study, published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia, offers a rare opportunity to explore potential protective factors. The researchers believe that identifying genetic or lifestyle components that contributed to the woman’s cognitive preservation could lead to strategies that benefit others with Down syndrome.
“If we can identify the genetic underpinnings or lifestyle factors that allowed her brain to function well despite the pathology, we may uncover strategies that could benefit others,” the team stated.
The findings emphasize the need for further research to understand the complex interplay between Down syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease, and other factors that influence cognitive health.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information available at the time of publication and reflects the findings of a specific study. Scientific research is ongoing, and further studies may provide additional insights or modify current understandings. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individuals with Down syndrome or concerns about dementia should consult with qualified healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and care.
