People with and without dementia can take part in dementia research, to help us understand more about how our genes are linked to dementia.
To find out more about taking part in clinical trials and other research studies visit Join Dementia Research or click the button below.
Read about volunteer experiences of taking part in research.
Our research
Alzheimer’s Research UK have funded more than £8.5 million of research focused on understanding the genetic underpinnings of dementia.
Discovering new genes and understanding how they work provides vital clues about the causes and development of diseases like Alzheimer’s. These genes also provide clues to how cells start to misfunction and become damaged, meaning researchers can target these processes by developing new treatments.
Researchers have already discovered over 75 risk genes for Alzheimer’s disease. In 2012 our researchers discovered that changes to a gene called TREM2 were linked to Alzheimer’s, opening the door to new treatments that slow the disease down being tested in trials today.
Find out more about taking part in research.
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 5111
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.
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