Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular disease have long been associated, with past research indicating a possible genetic link between the two conditions. Researchers from Edith Cowan University in Australia recently discovered a potential genetic connection between Alzheimer’s disease and several coronary artery disease-related disorders and lipids, such as cholesterol. Previous studies have linked heart conditions like high blood pressure, dyslipidemia, coronary artery disease, and atrial fibrillation to an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. A study published in November 2018 also found common genetics in some individuals between coronary artery disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Lead author Artika Kirby and her team conducted a study focusing on seven traits of coronary artery disease and 13 different lipids associated with the condition.
The research used a three-way cross-traits genetic analysis to investigate a potential genetic link between Alzheimer’s disease and coronary artery disease traits. They found a notable genetic connection between the seven coronary artery disease traits assessed, as well as triglycerides, suggesting individuals with genetic predispositions to elevated levels of these traits may have an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, a genetic overlap was discovered between Alzheimer’s disease and high-density lipoproteins (HDLs), low-density lipoproteins (LDLs), and total cholesterol, as well as shared genome-wide significant genes across Alzheimer’s disease, lipids, and coronary artery disease traits.
Cheng-Han Chen, MD, a board-certified interventional cardiologist, found the study interesting in its examination of the underlying genetics of Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular conditions. However, Chen cautioned that the identified genes are not yet fully understood in their functions and relationships to each condition. Heather M. Snyder, PhD, senior vice president of medical and scientific operations at the Alzheimer’s Association, noted that while the study found shared genes of interest, a causal link between Alzheimer’s disease and coronary artery disease through these genes was not established. Further research is needed to better understand the genetic underpinnings of both conditions.
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The connection between Alzheimer’s disease and coronary artery disease raises questions about shared genetic risk factors or potential unknown genetic connections between the two conditions. Current research indicates that individuals with cardiovascular disease may be at an increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of cognitive decline. Studies such as SPRINT-MIND have shown that aggressively reducing systolic blood pressure can decrease the likelihood of mild cognitive impairment and dementia, reinforcing the importance of addressing brain health in clinical interactions with patients.
Moving forward, further investigation into the shared biology underlying coronary artery disease, lipids, and Alzheimer’s disease is necessary to advance our understanding of how these conditions may interact at a genetic level. By identifying common mechanisms and pathways that link the two diseases, researchers may gain insights into possible treatment methods or targets, potentially leading to improved therapeutic interventions for both Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular diseases. Overall, the study highlights the importance of exploring the genetic connections between Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular conditions to better understand the onset and progression of these diseases.
