Your brain controls everything you do. It helps you think, breathe, move and feel. But what happens when things go wrong? Some brain diseases, like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis (MS), can change the way your brain works.
Scientists believe that genetics may play a role in these diseases. But does that mean you will get one if it runs in your family?
Read on to learn how genes affect brain health and what you can do to protect yourself.
What are genes?
Genes are like instructions for your body. They tell your cells how to grow and work. You inherit genes from your parents. They determine things like your eye color, hair type and even some health risks.
Sometimes, genes carry mutations or changes. Some of these mutations lead to diseases, including brain disorders. But genes are not the only factor. Your lifestyle and environment also affect brain health.
How genetics affect brain diseases
Certain gene mutations (changes in your DNA) can increase your risk of neurological diseases.
“Scientists have found links between genetics and conditions like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and MS, but having a family history does not always mean you will get the disease,” said Jessica Langbaum, PhD, senior director of research strategy at the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute.
Dr. Langbaum explains how genetics can impact each condition:
Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s affects movement. People with Parkinson’s may have shaky hands, stiff muscles and trouble balancing. Some cases of the disease are linked to gene mutations, but others happen randomly and aren’t directly inherited.
“For Parkinson’s diseases, genetic risk factors include LRRK2 (for both familial Parkinson’s and sporadic Parkinson’s), though many other genes are being discovered, such as PARK7, PRKN, SNCA and PINK1,” Dr. Langbaum noted.
Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s is a disease that affects memory and thinking and gets worse over time. Scientists have found genes that increase the risk of the disease. One important gene is APOE ε4. People with one or two copies of this gene have a higher chance of getting Alzheimer’s, but not everyone with it develops the disease.
"For familial Alzheimer’s, mutations to the PSEN1, PSEN2 or APP gene typically lead to early-onset Alzheimer’s, whereas the ε4 variant of the APOE gene –especially having two copies of APOE4 – is associated with an increased risk of developing the more common form of Alzheimer’s disease in later life,” Dr. Langbaum said.
Multiple sclerosis
MS is a disease that affects the nerves. It can cause weakness, numbness and trouble walking.
“Multiple sclerosis is thought to be partially heritable, but scientists do not think there is a single gene that causes it,” Dr. Langbaum said.
Genetics play a role but MS is not directly inherited. If a close family member has MS, your risk is slightly higher but other factors also play a part.
Should I get genetic testing?
If you have a family history of neurological diseases, you might wonder if you should get tested. Genetic testing can tell you if you have certain risk genes, but it’s not always necessary. Knowing your risk can help you make healthier choices but may also cause unnecessary worry.
Some genes may increase your risk of developing the disease, but the presence of the gene doesn’t mean with 100% certainty that you will develop the disease. You have to decide whether the results are worth the worry they could bring.
“If you’re interested in learning whether you have a genetic predisposition, consider doing genetic testing through a genetic counselor or your health care provider,” Dr. Langbaum said. “They can help you understand the results and next steps.”
Can I prevent genetic brain diseases?
You can’t change the genes you were given but you can take steps to protect your brain health. Here are some ways to lower your risk for neurological diseases:
- Eat a healthy diet: The Mediterranean diet, rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and healthy fats, helps keep your brain strong.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity improves blood flow to the brain and may slow disease progression. "More research is needed in this area, but things like aerobic exercise and good cardiovascular health are associated with a decreased risk of the disease even in the presence of a genetic risk factor,” Dr. Langbaum said.
- Manage stress: High stress can damage brain cells over time. Meditation and mindfulness can help.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: These can harm your brain and increase disease risk.
- Stay mentally active: Read, do puzzles and learn new skills to keep your brain sharp.
- Get enough sleep: Quality sleep helps your brain heal and remove toxins.
The future of brain health research
Scientists are working hard to find ways to prevent or delay diseases like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and MS.
“Clinical trials are examining whether drugs and lifestyle changes may delay the onset of these diseases in people at a greater genetic risk,” Dr. Langbaum said. The Banner Alzheimer’s Institute and other research centers are leading studies on how genes and lifestyle interact.
If you have a family history of neurological diseases, the best thing you can do is take care of your brain health now. Even small changes can have a big impact over time. The AARP Global Council on Brain Health also has resources to protect your brain as you age.
Takeaway
Your genes may influence your risk but they don’t define your future. Take charge of your brain health. Make healthy choices and lifestyle changes to help protect your brain and improve your overall well-being.
Talk to your health care provider, a genetic counselor or a Banner Health specialist if you are concerned about your brain health. They can guide you on testing and ways to stay healthy.
