New gene linked to fronto-temporal dementia

A new gene has been linked to a form of dementia which affects thousands.

Researchers from the University of Cambridge's Brain Repair Centre discovered that the breakthrough could help lead to future treatments for the condition, noting that there is an increased risk of suffering from fronto-temporal dementia in middle-age.

The team studied the brains of 515 people with the condition before discovering the gene on chromosome 7.

Maria Grazia Spillantini, a professor from the University of Cambridge and a co-author of the study, explained: "We found a specific genetic change that was associated with an increased risk of the disease. We also suggest how this gene could be having its effects.

"A better understanding of how the gene is involved could identify a new approach to tackle this disease."

It follows news that a pill being developed for Alzheimer's disease - Dimebon - has helped people with Huntington's disease in thought, learning and memory skills.

Read more about Barchester's dementia care homes.