Apolipoprotein Epsilon 4 as a Genetic Risk Factor for Nonfamilial (Sporadic) Alzheimer's Disease

Scientist do not yet fully understand what causes alzheimer's disease (AD). however the more they learn about AD, the more they become aware of the important function genes play in the development of this disease. More than one gene mutation can cause AD, and genes on multiple chromosomes are involved. The two basic types of AD are familial and nonfamilial (sporadic). Familial AD (FAD) is caused by gene mutations on chromosomes 1, 14 and 21. Researchers are more interested in sporadic AD because it becomes the majority of AD cases. Sporadic AD (nonfamilial AD) shows no obvious inheritanc epattern, however in some families, clusters of cases have been seen. Researchers have identified an increased risk of developing sporadic AD related to the apolupoproteon epsilon (apoE) gene found on chromosome 19. This gene codes for a protein that helps carry cholesterol in the bloodstream. Apo E comes in several different forms, or alleles but three occur most frequently : apoE2(E2), apoE3 (E3), ad apoE4 (E4). Based on many studies, apolipoprotein epsilon 4 (apoE4) is the best kown genetic risk factor for sporadic AD.

Link (s):

- http://lib.atmajaya.ac.id/default.aspx?tabID=61&src=a&id=76053

- http://journal.lib.unair.ac.id/index.php/index/search/titles?searchPage=18