Genetic Modifiers of Presenilin

This project is aimed at the identification of genes that may modify the susceptibility to, or severity of, Alzheimer’s disease. The model organism Drosophila (the fruit fly) is being used to perform a screen for genes that interact genetically with the Drosophila presenilin gene. Dr. Boulianne is also screening for proteins that physically interact directly with presenilin. Candidate genes identified through these approaches will be evaluated in transgenic mice for their ability to contribute to the development of an Alzheimer’s disease phenotype. The results of this study could further the goal of creating a more useful animal model for the discovery of additional Alzheimer’s-related genes.