Family History of Alzheimer's Disease and Brain Activity in Older and Younger Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Seago Elayna, Chen Ya-Yun, Lee Tae-Ho, Katz Ben
Primary Institution: Virginia Tech
Hypothesis
Is family history of Alzheimer's Disease linked to locus coeruleus activity in healthy adults?
Conclusion
The study found that having a family history of Alzheimer's Disease is associated with increased activity in a specific brain region related to attention.
Supporting Evidence
- The locus coeruleus is critical for attention and is affected by aging.
- Family history of Alzheimer's Disease may influence brain activity related to attention.
- No main effect of age on left LC activation was found.
Takeaway
If someone has a family history of Alzheimer's, their brain might work a little differently when paying attention, no matter how old they are.
Methodology
Functional MRI scans were used while participants completed the Attentional Network Task.
Limitations
The study did not find significant effects of age or right LC activation.
Participant Demographics
Participants aged 18 to 74, with 23 out of 77 having a family history of Alzheimer's Disease.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.289; p = 0.088; p = 0.180
Statistical Significance
p = 0.088
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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