Washington DC, July 31 -- A gene involved in the brain's overnight cleaning system may change how strongly poor sleep affects Alzheimer's-related brain changes. The findings point toward more personalised prevention strategies based on both genetics and sleep habits.

New research from Edith Cowan University (ECU) suggests that sleep habits and genetics may interact to influence subtle brain and cognitive changes associated with Alzheimer's disease years before noticeable symptoms develop.

The study, conducted by ECU's Centre for Precision Health (CPH), examined the aquaporin-4 (AQP4) gene. This gene helps control the movement of fluid through the brain, a function that supports the organ's natural waste-clearing system.

The Brain's Ove...