ApoE4
Quick Summary
The ApoE4 allele is a genetic factor associated with an increased risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer disease. This allele is one of three forms of the apolipoprotein E gene, which plays a role in cholesterol transport and metabolism.12
In individuals with the ApoE4 allele, there is a tendency for increased deposition of amyloid beta-protein in the brain and a potential increase in neurofibrillary tangles, both of which are characteristic of Alzheimer disease. While the presence of ApoE4 does not guarantee the development of the disease, it is considered a significant risk factor.12
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
Alzheimer diseaseGenetic variants…of this gene—APOE2, APOE3, and APOE4—two of which, APOE3 and APOE4, are associated with an increased risk of disease and influence the age of onset of disease.
Read More…of this gene—APOE2, APOE3, and APOE4—two of which, APOE3 and APOE4, are associated with an increased risk of disease and influence the age of onset of disease.
Read More
human diseaseAlzheimer diseaseThe presence of one form—ApoE4—in an individual’s genome seems to increase the deposition of amyloid β-protein in the brain and may also increase the number of neurofibrillary tangles.
Read MoreThe presence of one form—ApoE4—in an individual’s genome seems to increase the deposition of amyloid β-protein in the brain and may also increase the number of neurofibrillary tangles.
Read More