Columbia University researchers discover a gene mutation in FN1 that reduces Alzheimer's risk by 70% by preventing fibronectin build-up at the blood-brain barrier.

Columbia University researchers have discovered a gene mutation in the FN1 gene that reduces the risk of Alzheimer's disease by up to 70%. The "protective" variant in the FN1 gene, which codes for fibronectin, prevents excess fibronectin build-up at the blood-brain barrier, potentially offering a strong defense against Alzheimer's. The FN1 variant could lead to new therapies or drugs that mimic the gene's protective effect, targeting fibronectin to prevent or treat Alzheimer's disease.