Population-based next generation sequencing to elucidate the complex genetics of Alzheimer dementia.

Alzheimer dementia (AD) is a very common, incurable disease. Because of changing demographics, the prevalence of AD increases rapidly. Recently, nine novel genes were identified that contribute to the risk to develop AD, and due to large scale international collaborations, several more are in the pipeline. This PhD project aims to identify the genetic polymorphisms in these genes that cause the increase in AD risk. To this end, next generation sequencing will be performed on a study population that counts >2200 patients and control individuals. Once the true genetic risk factors have been identified, a translational characterization will be performed, including genotype-phenotype correlation studies on existing and novel phenotypes, to enable translation of findings into progress in the treatment of and care for AD patients.

Keywords:RISK GENES, GENETIC EPIDEMIOLOGY, NEXT GENERATION SEQUENCING, ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE