Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease DNA Test (e4 Detection)

Does late-onset Alzheimer’s disease run in your family? Find out if you are at risk with this Test.

  • Detects the APOE e4 allele strongly linked to late-onset Alzheimer’s disease
  • Individuals with this allele have a 3X to 15X increased risk of the disease
  • 100% private and confidential online results

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Detailed Description

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys memory and other important mental functions. It is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 50 – 70% of approximately 44 million dementia cases worldwide in 2015.

Most people affected by Alzheimer’s disease do not show any symptoms until after 65 years of age. This is known as late-onset Alzheimer’s disease and occurs in more than 90% of cases. The rare early-onset Alzhimer’s cases often cluster within families and symptoms appear before 65 years of age.

This test detects the e4 allele associated with Alzheimer’s disease risk. You may wish to upgrade to the DNA Alzheimer’s Disease test, which includes an additional variant to improve your test results.

The Genetics

One strong genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer’s is the e4 form (allele) of the APOE gene. The APOE gene encodes apolipoprotein E, a protein involved in injury repair and transporting fats between brain cells.

Individuals that have one copy of the e4 allele have a 3-fold increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s, while e4 homozygotes (two copies of e4) have up to a 15-fold increased risk. 

Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

  • Memory loss that disturbs daily life
  • Challenges in planning or solving problems
  • Difficulty performing familiar tasks
  • Confusion with time or place
  • Trouble understanding visual images or spatial relationships
  • New problems with words in speaking or writing
  • Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
  • Decreased or poor judgement
  • Withdrawals from work or social activities
  • Changes in mood or personality

How It Works

Step 1: Sign up for a free DNA Access account.
Step 2: Upload your DNA markers to DNA Access.
Step 3: Log in to your account to access your results when they are ready.