Kegg pathway analysis of over 400 Alzheimer's disease susceptibility genes

Over 400 Alzheimer’s disease susceptibility genes have been recorded in association studies.This Kegg pathway analysis shows that these genes trace out a number of signalling networks that are highly relevant to the sub-pathologies of Alzheimer’s disease. These genes are colour-coded yellow while genes also involved in the herpes simplex life cycle are coded red.

These pathways include the APP processing pathway as well as apoptosis and oxidative stress related networks. Pathways involved in glycolysis, the Krebs cycle and oxidative phosphorylation are also implicated, a testament to the problems in cerebral energy metabolism, observed in Alzheimer’s disease.
Numerous immune and pathogen defence pathways are involved, as are a number of clearly defined pathogen entry pathways. Some of the more exotic pathways, for example Chaga’s disease and amoebiasis should perhaps be considered as generic rather than specific, indicating general routes for pathogen entry. These pathways tie in with the diverse viral, bacterial and other pathogens that have been implicated as Alzheimer’s disease risk factors( e.g. Chlamydia , C.Neoformans, herpes simplex or helicobacter pylori) See database

Despite the problems of replication, these genes, collected over decades of genetic association studies, tell a story that illustrates the aetiology of Alzheimer’s disease. The pathways etched out by these genes are relevant to many of the processes known to be disrupted in this disorder, and also to the pathogenic environmental risk factors.

Other Kegg pathways