10342
0
Posted on Mar 19, 2008, 9 a.m.
By Bill Freeman
A gene situated on chromosome 19 that codes for a protein in lipoproteins that are normal constituents of blood plasma, for example HDL (high density lipoprotein), LDL (low density lipoprotein), and VLDL (very low density lipoprotein).There are a number of common variations (alleles) of the APOE gene, the most common of which are known as: e2, e3, and e4.
A gene situated on chromosome 19 that codes for a protein in lipoproteins that are normal constituents of blood plasma, for example HDL (high density lipoprotein), LDL (low density lipoprotein), and VLDL (very low density lipoprotein).
There are a number of common variations (alleles) of the APOE gene, the most common of which are known as: e2, e3, and e4. Research has shown that people who inherit one or more copies of the APOEe4 gene are at increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Meanwhile, there is evidence to suggest that the relatively rare APOEe2 allele may offer some protection against the disease - it seems to be associated with a lower risk for Alzheimer's and a later age of onset if the disease does develop. APOEe3 is the most common form of the gene in the general population and is thought to have no effect on Alzheimer's risk.
