Cognitive Performance in Adolescence, APOE and AD

Researchers have suggested that there is a relationship between cognitive performance early in life and the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) later in life, but few studies have directly tested this relationship. Also, there have been no investigations to examine whether the genetic factor, apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4), modifies the possible relationship. There are two main goals of this investigation by Dr. Fritsch. First, he will use information from archived school records and yearbooks to study relationships between cognitive performance, grades and participation in school activities in adolescence and the development of AD in adulthood. Second, he will collect genetic material in order to study the possible modifying role of ApoE. These studies should lead to understanding the early roots of AD and help evaluate whether AD is a developmental process or a long-term chronic disorder.