APP gene

The APP gene provides instructions for making a protein called amyloid precursor protein, which is involved in the growth, maintenance, and repair of nerve cells in the brain. However, when this gene mutates or malfunctions, it can lead to the abnormal production of protein fragments called amyloid-beta. These fragments can accumulate and form sticky plaques in the brain, which are associated with the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Understanding the APP gene helps researchers explore how Alzheimer’s develops and develop potential treatments targeting these processes.