People with Down syndrome are genetically predisposed to develop dementia at earlier ages, according to scientific evidence gathered over recent decades.
At Ace, we work to unravel these biological mechanisms with a clear goal: to improve early diagnosis and personalize care and support for individuals and their families.
“Studying Alzheimer’s in people with Down syndrome allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the disease and to develop more precise and personalized diagnostic strategies,” highlights Ace’s research team.
A Key Genetic Link
Down syndrome is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, where the APP gene (amyloid precursor protein) is located. Having three copies of this gene leads to an overproduction of beta-amyloid protein, one of the main neuropathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.
This process often begins decades before clinical symptoms appear, making this group a priority in preventive research.
The Challenge of Early Diagnosis
It is estimated that a large proportion of people with Down syndrome will develop dementia symptoms from the age of 50 onwards. However, detecting cognitive decline at early stages remains a scientific challenge, as conventional tools are not always adapted to their specific needs.
At Ace, we promote the development of tailored biomarkers and diagnostic tools to identify these changes accurately and at an early stage.
Our research team analyzes clinical and genetic data to understand why some individuals show greater resilience to the disease. Studying the link between Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s is not only relevant for this group but also represents a unique opportunity to advance the overall understanding of the disease.
Through international collaborations and excellence-driven projects, Ace reaffirms its commitment: generating knowledge that contributes to improving quality of life and promoting healthy aging.
