Unraveling the APOE 4 Gene and the Alzheimer's Puzzle
Jun 29, 2023
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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.
The Apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4) gene is the most influential risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's disease, contributing to over 50% of cases.
APOE4 variant has detrimental effects on cholesterol metabolism, immune function, blood-brain barrier integrity, and synaptic plasticity, increasing the risk of Alzheimer's and other impairments.
Lifestyle factors, such as regular exercise, a Mediterranean diet, and managing cardiovascular risk, can modify Alzheimer's risk even in the presence of genetic predisposition.
Deep dives
Genetics of Alzheimer's Disease: Apo E4 Gene
The podcast discusses the genetics of Alzheimer's disease, specifically focusing on the Apolipo gene E4 (Apo E4), which is the most influential genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's. The discussion covers the evolutionary aspects of Apo E proteins, the different isoforms of Apo E and their influence on Alzheimer's disease, the impact on lipid metabolism and immune function in the brain, and the latest evidence on the epigenetics of Apo E4.
Direct and Indirect Genetic Factors
The podcast distinguishes between direct and indirect genetic factors. Direct factors cause a disease through abnormal genes, while indirect factors influence disease risk by affecting processes like inflammation, waste removal, and cholesterol metabolism. The majority of Alzheimer's cases are influenced by indirect factors, including lifestyle factors such as inflammation, waste removal, glucose metabolism, and gene deficits. The Apo E4 gene is highlighted as a major indirect factor in Alzheimer's, contributing to over 50% of cases.
Apolipo Proteins and the Evolutionary Role of Apo E4
The podcast explores the role of apolipo proteins, particularly Apo E4, in immune function and cholesterol metabolism. The Apo E4 variant is more detrimental compared to Apo E2 and Apo E3 variants in carrying and removing cholesterol from cells. The podcast discusses the evolutionary significance of APO E4, how it is expressed in different animals, and the potential protective effects it had against parasites, particularly in certain populations.
Determining Alzheimer's Risk and Lifestyle Factors
The podcast emphasizes the importance of lifestyle factors in modifying Alzheimer's risk, regardless of genetic predisposition. Regular physical exercise, adequate omega-3 intake, a Mediterranean diet, and managing cardiovascular risk factors like blood pressure and cholesterol levels are recommended. The podcast highlights the potential benefits of genetic testing, specifically APO E status, to increase awareness and inform lifestyle choices. However, it notes that lifestyle interventions should be personalized based on individual risk factors and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Understanding APO E4 and its Impact
The podcast delves into the specific characteristics of APO E4, highlighting its detrimental effects on cholesterol metabolism, immune function, blood-brain barrier integrity, and synaptic plasticity. APO E4 carriers have an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease, vascular impairment, immune issues, and inflammatory markers. The podcast concludes with discussions on gene therapy, the potential role of specific dietary interventions, and the importance of ongoing research and personalized approaches to reduce Alzheimer's risk.
This episode is part of a live recording for our NEURO Academy community, and the topic of the discussion is the genetics of Alzheimer’s disease, in particular a deep dive into Apolipoprotein E4 or APOE4 gene, which is the most influential genetic risk factor associated with Late Onset Alzheimers Disease. We describe the evolutionary aspects of Apolipoproteins, how they are produced, how the different isoforms of apoe influence the different factors leading to AD, how it effects lipid metabolism and immune functions in the brain, and what is the latest evidence on the epigenetic of APOE4. Typically, the community members post their questions ahead of time and we structure the conversation in a way to address their questions, and also answer their questions during the recording.
NEURO Academy is a membership based online community with over 700 active members, with resources to achieve optimal brain health, better cognition and prevent cognitive decline. The platform provides the opportunity to connect with us and an empowering community, and participate in weekly live Q&A sessions, education on evidence based nutrition and other lifestyle factors, live cooking demonstration , live podcasts and Q&A with remarkable health leaders, interest groups, book clubs, science club discussions, access to on-demand courses on prevention of neurological diseases, evidence-based nutrition and cooking, behavioral sciences and many others on various topics related to brain health. Members can receive CE or CME credits and certification after taking the course. Join us by visiting NEUROacademy.com.
