Alzheimers Disease and toxicity exposure: a gene-environment interactions

 
   Lead Investigator:    Rhea Bhatta
   Institution      :    Lehigh University
   E-Mail           :    rbhatta@mail.med.upenn.edu
   Proposal ID      :    177


   Publications:


1  Bhatta R, Chou SY, Cantwell L, Schellenberg G, Wang LS
   Alzheimer's Disease and toxicity exposure: a gene-environment interactions analysis
   2012   Abstract  American Society for Health Economics Conference Minneapolis, MN June , 

   ACCEPTED





   Proposal Description:
   While the APOE gene is recognized as a genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's Disease (AD), it explains only a small proportion of AD. The inability of genetic risk factors by themselves to explain the cause of AD serves as the basis for our hypothesis regarding the role of gene-environment interactions.     For individuals subject to such genetic risk factors, we believe certain toxicants or pollutants in the environment may trigger the expression of these genes, resulting in AD onset.    Specific Aim #1: Identify which chemical compounds and compound groups are most highly correlated with AD.  To narrow the list of potential compounds, our focus will be on those recognized or suspected of having neurotoxic effects on humans as well as those associated with AD.  We will consider three broad categories of compounds: metals solvents commonly used in industry and pesticides.    Specific Aim #2: Use regression analysis to assess whether or not these toxicants interact with recognized AD genetic risk factors to trigger the disease.  These models will interact the toxicity variables with genetic risk factors (APOE) while controlling for individuals' demographic, health and medical, and family characteristics.