Now, scientists and researchers can use information from the Human Genome Project (HGP) to have a better understanding of the disease so we can figure out what is causing the disease and learn how to efficiently treat it.

Gene Testing

What is it?

It allows scientists to scan and identify mutated genes. Therefore, researchers can know exactly what to treat and what would actually work. Also, disease prevention and survival rates would increase.

Even though, an invasion of privacy is the one negative outcome, because the testing is targeted at healthy patients that may carry the mutated genes, but not necessarily activate the disease. (4a)

Gene Therapy

What is it?

It corrects the mutated genes that may cause diseases.

How is it used?

  1. A normal and healthy gene is inserted to replace a nonfunctional gene.
  2. Abnormal gene is switched with a normal gene through homologous recombination.
  3. Abnormal gene is repaired through reverse mutation.
  4. The regulation (what turns the gene on or off) is altered.

 (4b)

This technique are carried out by using vectors to insert the genes. Vectors are usually viruses.

Medications

Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease just yet. So far, doctors are prescribing drugs that will only slow down the disease.

Two drugs have proven to work:

Cholinesterase inhibitors [donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon) and galantamine (Razadyne)]

It improves the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. Unfortunately, cholinesterase inhibitors do not work for everyone, because only half the patients show improvements. Side effects include diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. (4c)

Memantine (Namenda)

Treats moderate to severe stages of Alzheimer's and protects brain cells from the chemical messenger glutamate (causes damages). Side effects include dizziness (some people show increase agitation and delusional behavior). (4c)

 

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