The Brain Health Revolution Podcast Unraveling the APOE 4 Gene and the Alzheimer's Puzzle
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Jun 29, 2023 In this live recording, the podcast dives into the genetics of Alzheimer's disease, focusing on the Apolipoprotein E4 gene. They discuss its influence on factors leading to AD, lipid metabolism, immune function, and epigenetics. The hosts answer community questions and introduce NEURO Academy, an online community for brain health. Other topics include the impact of exercise, the importance of including polyunsaturated fats in the diet, and the potential of gene therapy.
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Genetics Behind Alzheimer's Risk
- Alzheimer's genetic risk is mostly epigenetic, not direct gene mutation caused.
- Only 3-4% of cases come from direct mutations like in amyloid processing genes.
APOE Isoforms Affect Risk
- APOE gene has three main isoforms: E2, E3, and E4 with different Alzheimer's risk profiles.
- APOE2 protects, APOE3 neutral, and APOE4 increases risk significantly.
Evolutionary Role of APOE4
- APOE4 likely helped protect humans against infections and parasites historically.
- Some populations have high APOE4 but low Alzheimer's prevalence due to this evolutionary benefit.