How a Rare Genetic Mutation Spared This Woman's Mind From Alzheimer's

Researchers investigated the case of a Colombian woman whose rare APOE genetic mutation helped protect her against Alzheimer's disease.

By Alex Orlando
Nov 22, 2019 4:50 PMAug 21, 2023 6:15 PM
Yarumal, Columbia - Shutterstock
The town of Yarumal, Colombia. Some people from the town carry a rare mutation that makes them highly susceptible to early-onset Alzheimer's. (Credit: Oscar Garces/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Her genetic makeup indicated that she would almost certainly get Alzheimer’s disease by the age of 50. But one woman escaped that fate. She lived into her 70s before experiencing any issues with thinking skills, and even then avoided the worst of the condition.

Could this woman’s rare genetic mutation shift our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease?

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2025 LabX Media Group