Journal of Undergraduate Research
Keywords
Tau protein, CSF, Alzheimer's Disease, AD, cerebrospinal fluid
College
Life Sciences
Department
Biology
Abstract
Alzheimer’s Disease, the most common form of dementia, affects nearly 6 million Americans. Its effects on the individual range from mild impairment of memory to the complete destruction of the victim’s identity and their ability to perform everyday tasks. They become a heavy burden on their family, requiring constant medical care that often leaves the family with not only emotional problems, but financial stress as well. A study involving a clinical diagnosis of the disease, or case-control study, is limited by the accuracy of a psychiatrist’s judgment of the severity of the disease. This is obtained by a verbal and visual memory test. Classic case-control studies have limited statistical power since a diagnosis can only result in one of five levels of severity for each individual, and are subject to the bias of a psychiatrist.
Recommended Citation
Patty, David and Kauwe, Dr. John S. K.
(2014)
"Genetic Factors that Influence Tau Protein Levels in CSF and Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease,"
Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014:
Iss.
1, Article 726.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/726