Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is one of the most complex neurodegenerative diseases to diagnose. Its similarity to conditions such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s leads to diagnostic delays that directly impact clinical management.
In this context, genetic research is becoming a key tool to improve early diagnosis and move towards precision medicine in dementia.
Within the framework of EADC 2026 (European Alzheimer’s Disease Consortium), held in Copenhagen on April 16 and 17, Clàudia Olivé, researcher at Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona, presented the center’s advances in the genetics of dementia with Lewy bodies.
Her oral presentation took place on April 17, strengthening Ace’s presence at one of the main European forums for research in neurodegenerative diseases.
Results that enable further progress
The study presented is part of a research line focused on the genetic characterization of DLB, based on a cohort of:
- 725 diagnosed patients.
- More than 2,500 healthy volunteers.
This work has made it possible to identify key factors in disease risk, including:
- The role of the APOE gene, widely known for its involvement in Alzheimer’s, as a major risk factor also in DLB.
- New research lines in genes such as TMEM175, linked to Parkinson’s disease.
The results reinforce the idea that dementia with Lewy bodies lies at an intermediate point between Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, sharing biological mechanisms with both conditions.
This approach enables progress towards a better understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and opens the door to more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatments.
Collaborative research at the European level
Ace’s participation in this congress is also framed by its role as a founding member of the Genetics Hub of the European Dementia with Lewy Bodies Consortium.
This initiative, led by Prof. Alfredo Ramírez (University of Cologne) and Dr. Victoria Fernández (Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona), aims to promote large-scale collaborative research across Europe.
Translational research with real impact
Through initiatives like this, Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona strengthens its commitment to translational research, connecting clinical practice with scientific progress.
The goal is clear: to transform knowledge into real improvements in diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for people with dementia.
Do you have questions about dementia diagnosis or neurodegenerative diseases?
At Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona we are specialists in diagnosis and research.
