Apolipoprotein E gene (APOE)

The **Apolipoprotein E gene (APOE)** encodes the protein apolipoprotein E, which is a major lipid transporter in both the brain and peripheral tissues. The gene exists in three major allelic forms: **E2**, **E3**, and **E4**, each differing by single amino acid substitutions. The **E2 allele** is characterized by two cysteine residues at key positions and is associated with lower LDL cholesterol but a higher risk of type III hyperlipoproteinemia. The protein plays critical roles in cholesterol and triglyceride transport, synaptic plasticity, and binding to lipoprotein receptors such as LDLR. Variations in the gene are important risk factors for Alzheimer's disease and cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, with the E2 allele generally regarded as protective against Alzheimer’s but associated with other metabolic complications

Other names

Apo-EAPOE_HUMANApolipoprotein EAPOE2 (specific allele/protein isoform)Apolipoprotein E gene

For hypothetical ApoE-targeting therapies: may involve **modulation of ApoE expression**, **altering lipid metabolism**, **impacting amyloid-beta binding or clearance** (for Alzheimer's)