Abstract: The present disclosure relates to genetic markers and methods of diagnosing and screening for late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD). As such, the disclosure encompasses a whole-genome association analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of which a number are located within the GRB2-associated binding protein 2 (GAB2) gene as well as other markers associated with other genes. The disclosure identifies two novel haplotypes within the GAB2 gene, i.e., a LOAD risk-enhancing and a LOAD risk-decreasing haplotype. These haplotypes modify LOAD risk differentially in combination with APOE alleles. Further encompassed are therapeutic methods and agents of decreasing the deterioration of cells associated with LOAD.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to genetic markers and methods of diagnosing and screening for late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD). As such, the disclosure encompasses a whole-genome association analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of which a number are located within the GRB2-associated binding protein 2 (GAB2) gene as well as other markers associated with other genes. The disclosure identifies two novel haplotypes within the GAB2 gene, i.e., a LOAD risk-enhancing and a LOAD risk-decreasing haplotype. These haplotypes modify LOAD risk differentially in combination with APOE alleles. Further encompassed are therapeutic methods and agents of decreasing the deterioration of cells associated with LOAD.

Abstract: Analogues of the tridecapeptide hormone, .alpha.-melanotropin (a-melanocyte stimulating hormone, .alpha.-MSH) of the formula:Ac-Ser.sup.1 -Tyr.sup.2 -Ser.sup.3 -Y.sup.4 -Glu.sup.5 -His.sup.6 -X.sup.7 -Arg.sup.8 -Trp.sup.9 -Gly.sup.10 -Lys.sup.11 -Pro.sup.12 -Val.sup.13 -NH.sub.2wherein X and Y are amino acid residues and X is in a D-isomeric configuration. Preferred analogues, e.g. [Nle.sup.4, D-Phe.sup.7 ]-.alpha.-MSH, display increased in vitro and in vivo potency, prolongation and serum stability characteristics and may be covalently bonded to other elements or compounds (e.g., radioisotopes of iodine) without significant loss of biological activity.