ApoE genotype: from geographic distribution to function and responsiveness to dietary factors

摘要

ApoE is a key protein in lipid metabolism with three major isoforms. ApoE allele frequencies show non-random global distribution especially in Europe with high apoE ?μ3 frequency in the Mediterranean area, whereas the apoE ?μ4 genotype is enriched in Northern Europe. The apoE ?μ4 genotype is one of the most important genetic risk factors for age-dependent chronic diseases, including CVD and Alzheimer's disease (AD). The apoE polymorphism has been shown to impact on blood lipids, biomarkers of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, which all may contribute to the isoform-dependent disease risk. Studies in mice and human subjects indicate that the apoE ?μ3 but not the apoE ?μ4 genotype may significantly benefit from dietary flavonoids (e.g. quercetin) and n-3 fatty acids. Metabolism of lipid soluble vitamins E and D is likewise differentially affected by the apoE genotype. Epidemiological and experimental evidence suggest a better vitamin D status in apoE ?μ4 than ?μ3 subjects indicating a certain advantage of ?μ4 over ?μ3. The present review aims at evaluation of current data available on interactions between apoE polymorphism and dietary responsiveness to flavonoids, fat soluble vitamins and n-3 fatty acids. Likewise, distinct geographic distribution and chronic disease risk of the different apoE isoforms are addressed.