According to a team of Toronto researchers, a gene that plays a role in memory and learning also shapes the architecture of the aging brain in ways that may make people more vulnerable to Alzheimer’s disease.

The gene causes subtle weaknesses in areas of the brain that are the first to be affected by Alzheimer’s has been founded by Aristotle Voineskos of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. He also stated that it is a common variant, carried by well over half the population, and is probably one of many risk factors related to the disease.

According to a research, it was revealed that this gene produces an essential protein that helps keep neurons alive and healthy, particularly in the memory centres of the brain. It also helps new brain cells to form.

Dr. Voineskos and his fellow members plan to investigate any method of boosting the production and to keep the brain cells alive for a long time.

“If we can manipulate it, we might be able to keep brain cells healthy for longer”, he said.

According to a statistic record, there are 500,000 Canadians suffering from Alzheimer's and related dementias and that number is expected to double within 20 years.