Roche and Decode Genetics map Alzheimer's gene

Decode Genetics, Reykjavik, Iceland, and Basel, Switzerland-based F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. announced that scientists at Decode have successfully mapped a novel gene that contributes to the occurrence of the common form of Alzheimer's disease.

Roche plans to initiate discovery and development programs for new diagnostics and therapeutics building on this genetic information. Decode Genetics has received an undisclosed milestone payment from Hoffman-La Roche for this accomplishment.

"We have made significant progress towards finding a novel gene that, depending on the presence of certain molecular variations, contributes to the common form of Alzheimer's disease," said Kari Stefansson, chief executive officer of Decode Genetics. "This work underscores the feasibility and power of studying common complex diseases using Iceland's unique resources."

Jonathan Knowles, head of global research at Hoffman-La Roche, added, "We are very impressed by the rapid progress made by Decode Genetics towards identifying genes that play important roles in the molecular pathology of common diseases." PR