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Published on: November 14, 2017
Variation in the uric acid transporter gene (SLC2A9) and memory performance
Lorna M Houlihan1, Niki D Wyatt, Sarah E Harris
1Department of Psychology, The University of Edinburgh, Centre for Cognitive Ageing and Cognitive Epidemiology, 7 George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, UK.
Human Molecular Genetics
|March 4, 2010
Summary
This study suggests higher serum uric acid levels, influenced by SLC2A9 gene variants, may correlate with better memory performance in older adults. Further research is needed to confirm these findings in diverse populations.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Gerontology
Background:
- Cognitive ageing impacts the growing elderly population.
- Serum uric acid levels are linked to ageing illnesses and cognitive function, but the association direction is unclear.
- The urate transporter SLC2A9 influences serum uric acid levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between SLC2A9 gene variants, serum uric acid levels, and cognitive performance in ageing.
- To examine cognitive abilities including general cognitive ability, memory, and other cognitive tests.
Main Methods:
- Tested four SLC2A9 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in three cohorts: Lothian Birth Cohort 1936 (LBC1936), Lothian Birth Cohort 1921 (LBC1921), and Edinburgh Type 2 Diabetes Study (ET2DS).
- Cognitive abilities were assessed using general cognitive ability tests and diverse cognitive test batteries at various ages.
- Analyses were adjusted for age, gender, body mass index, and prior cognitive ability measures.
Main Results:
- Significant associations were found between SLC2A9 and a general memory factor in LBC1936.
- The association with logical memory replicated in the LBC1921 cohort across multiple ages.
- These associations were not replicated in the ET2DS cohort.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest a potential positive association between higher uric acid levels and enhanced memory performance.
- Replication in the ET2DS cohort was unsuccessful, indicating potential population-specific effects.
- Further investigation is warranted to confirm the link between uric acid, SLC2A9, and cognitive function in ageing.
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