The etiology, or cause of Alzheimer’s is idiopathic, or unknown. Scientists do not yet fully understand what causes the changes in the brain to take place resulting in cognition problems. However, it is found that there is a genetic link in some cases of early onset, familial Alzheimer’s. Familial Alzheimer’s is caused by single gene mutations on chromosomes 21, 14, and 1 (Disease Genetics). These mutations cause formation of abnormal proteins which eventually can lead to the plaques and tangles that form in the brain. Mutations on chromosome 21 cause the formation of abnormal amyloid precursor protein, or APP (Disease Genetics). Normal APP plays an essential role in neural growth and repair. Abnormal APP, on the other hand, destroys nerve
