Investigating Genetic Status in Patients Presenting to Clinic

Investigating Genetic Status in Patients Presenting to Clinic

The causes of neurodegenerative dementias such as Frontotemporal Dementia, Lewy Body Disease and Alzheimer's disease are still largely unknown. While the contribution of some genetic mutations and polymorphisms is associated with autosomal dominant patterns of inheritance of these dementias, in many cases, the specific causative mutation in these families is not yet identified. Further, in many patients, polygenic risk is thought to give rise to pathophysiologic changes, but which specific genes affect risk are largely yet unknown. By examining genotypes in patients that present to our Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer's Research Clinic with suspected or confirmed neurodegenerative dementia, or have a history of a familial dementia, we aim to help identify and characterize genetic mutations or polymorphisms that give rise to neurodegenerative diseases.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Persons presenting to the cognitive clinic with a neurodegenerative disorder (for example, AD, FTD, LBD, ALSP, and related conditions);
• Biological family members of someone diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disorder, presenting to clinic;
• Age 18+ years old;
• Consenting to a blood draw.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Persons declining / unwilling / not able to have a blood draw.