Dementia with Lewy bodies is the third most common disease that causes dementia. Both risk genes and faulty genes can be involved in dementia with Lewy bodies.
Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is caused by a build-up of an abnormal protein which clumps together to form Lewy bodies in the brain. The protein is called alpha-synuclein.
It can have symptoms similar to those seen in people with Parkinson’s disease.
Age is currently the biggest known risk factor for DLB, but several risk genes may also be involved. These risk genes include:
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APOE
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GBA
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APOE
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GBA
One variation of the APOE gene, called APOE4, increases the risk of developing DLB. This risk gene is also associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Research is ongoing to understand the link between this variation and an increased risk of developing DLB.
Variations of the GBA gene are thought to affect how alpha-synuclein is disposed of in the brain. Certain variations can increase the risk of alpha-synuclein clumping together into Lewy bodies.
Research has shown that faulty genes can also directly cause dementia with Lewy bodies. These genes are called SNCA and SNCB, and can cause alpha synuclein protein to clump together.
Genes and dementia
The booklet gives an overview of what genes are and how they are involved in the different diseases that cause dementia, along with information on genetic testing and current research.
Order health information
Alzheimer’s Research UK has a wide range of information about dementia. Order booklets or download them from our online form.
Dementia Research Infoline
Do you have questions about genes and dementia? Or are you keen to get involved in research studies?
Contact the Dementia Research Infoline
9am-5pm, Monday to Friday
0300 111 5 111
This information was updated in November 2024 and is due for review in November 2026. It does not replace any advice that doctors, pharmacists, or nurses may give you. Please contact us if you would like a version with references.
This information is produced with support from The Perfume Shop who had no input into the content.
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