DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC USE OF CYP11A1 FOR NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES

摘要

The present invention discloses the differential expression of the CYP11A1 gene in specific brain regions of Alzheimer's disease patients. Based on this finding, this invention provides a method for diagnosing or prognosticating a neurodegenerative disease, in particular Alzheimer's disease in a subject, or for determining whether a subject is at increased risk of developing such a disease. Furthermore, this invention provides therapeutic and prophylactic methods for treating or preventing Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative disorders using the CYP11A1 gene and gene products. A method of screening for modulating agents of neurodegenerative diseases is also disclosed.