Abstract: Provided herein according to some embodiments is a method for detecting a short tandem repeat (STR) variant in the SOD1, TARDBP or C9orf72 gene region comprising measuring the length of the STR variant. In some embodiments, the method V includes obtaining a biological sample containing genomic DNA from a subject, optionally isolating the genomic DNA from the sample. Also provided is a method for determining a diagnosis or a prognosis for a neurodegenerative disease, including: measuring a length of a short tandem repeat (STR) variant in the SOD1, TARDBP or C9orf72 gene region, and determining the diagnosis or prognosis based upon the length. Further provided is a method of treatment for a neurodegenerative disease including: administering a therapeutic agent to a subject based upon a length of a short tandem repeat (STR) variant in the SOD1, TARDBP or C9orf72 gene region in the subject. Also provided is a kit for detecting a (STR) variant in the SOD1, TARDBP or C9orf72 gene region.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for improving cognitive function in a subject suffering from or susceptible to MCI, Alzheimer's disease or other dementias, which subject is not homozygous for the APOE4 allele, comprising the steps of: (i) screening the subject to determine that the subject is not homozygous for the APOE4 allele; and then (ii) administering a safe and effective amount of a PPAR-gamma agonist to said subject.

Abstract: Disclosed is a pharmaceutical composition comprising both rosiglitazone or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and donepezil or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof which is of use in the treatment or prophylaxis of Alzheimer's disease or other dementias and mild cognitive impairment. Also disclosed is an oral dosage forms comprising rosiglitazone or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and donepezil or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

Abstract: A method of combatting Alzheimer's disease which comprises increasing the binding of the tau protein in nerve cells of that subject, and/or the binding of MAP2c protein in nerve cells of that subject, to either Apolipoprotein E or an Apolipoprotein E fragments capable of binding tau and/or MAP2c. In one embodiment, the method comprises administering the ApoE or ApoE fragment to the subject; in another embodiment, the method comprises administering to the subject a vector capable of entering nerve cells, which vector then upregulates the expression of an ApoE or an ApoE fragment capable of binding tau and/or MAP2c in nerve cells. Compositions useful for carrying out these methods are also disclosed.