This leads to the possibility that on the one hand, reduced VAMP1 expression can lead to a global dysfunction in neuronal transmission, which in turn may lead to muscle wastage, ataxia or schizophrenia, while on the other hand, when resulting in a specific reduction in neuronal Aβ secretion, may be protective against Alzheimer’s disease. This evidence concerns the gene VAMP1 and cerebellar ataxia.