| The presence of the Abeta protein in the blood is considered to be a marker for Alzheimer?s disease. In this project, we want to use this biomarker to find new genetic variants involved in the disease. We propose a family-based study, in which we will try to find genes that are explaining levels of the Abeta protein. The study will be embedded in the Erasmus Rucphen Family (ERF) study, which is situated in a genetically isolated population. As the 3000 participants of the ERF study are related within 5-7 generations, new genes can be identified using a small number of markers in a genome wide search. Another advantage of the ERF study is that all participants have been characterized already genetically. For the present study, we only need determine the levels of the Abeta protein in the blood. |
