Age Related Differences in Cognitive and Olfactory Functioning in the onset of Alzheimer's Disease:The role of the ApoE ε4 allele and Cerebrovascular disease

Previous research has shown that the Apoe allele has an important role in the central nervous system synaptic function and repair by its ability to mobilize and redistribute lipids. However, individuals with the ApoE e4 allele seem to be less effective in this process. The present study examines the role of the e4 allele in combination with cerebrovascular disease in the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. It is expected that those with a combination of both will show a transition to Alzheimer’s disease at an earlier age and demonstrate a greater if not more rapid rate of decline in both olfaction and cognitive functioning. Olfaction and Cognitive functioning will be measured through the use of different neuropsychological tests. Such tests include the MMSE, DRS attention and odor tests for memory, threshold, and identification. In order to validate the presence of cerebrovascular disease or other ischemic related changes, the participants’ chosen will have gone through MRI scanning. To analyze this potential relationship, the study will compare 16 Probable Alzheimer’s (PAD) individuals with the presence of cerebrovascular disease (CBD) and 16 PAD with no presence of CBD. The control group will be separated into two groups: first with 16 nondemented individuals with no history of CBD; the second with 16 non demented individuals with the presence of CBD.  Understanding this relationship could ultimately be important in contributing to early diagnosis of Alzheimer's and in creating more effective treatments that could target those with vascular disease that are at risk for developing Alzheimer's.