1 DNA and proteins are key molecules of the cell nucleus. 2  One gene makes one protein. 3  A gene is made of DNA. 4  Bacteria and viruses have DNA too. 5  The DNA molecule is shaped like a twisted ladder. 6  A half DNA ladder is a template for copying the whole.  RNA is an intermediary between DNA and protein.
1 Another theory holds that depression may directly damage the brain, leading to dementia. âSimply put, chronic stress and/or depression may result in the release of cortisol,â Gorman says. Over time, this stress hormone can harm the brain, she says.  A third theory points to reduced brain volume.
Both conditions are associated with impairments of thinking ability (e.g. including memory difficulties) and with diminished interest in activities (e.g. including lack of initiative). Both in dementia and depression, the symptoms can be disruptive to daily activity performance. Moreover, depression is more common than dementia in older people. Ruling out depression is an important step in diagnosing dementia.