The ApoE ( or apolipoprotein E) protein is found on chlymicrons and other lipoproteins particles. There are three different known varieties of the ApoE gene ( e2,e3,e4) and six combinations of expressions based on these two alleles. It is now known that the E3/E4 is associated with a higher incidence of atherosclerosis and the Apo E4/E4 is associated with a higher incidence of Alzheimer's Disease ( AD). Testing is straight forward if your doctor knows the right test to do. The test I have done when non covered and now covered by insurance is the Berkley Heart Laboratory Testing. The testing is straight forward - the following genotypes and their recommendations.
There are six possible Apo E genotypes
e2/e2
e3/e3
e4/e4
e2/e3
e3/e4
e2/e4
1. e3/e3 or e2/e4 e3 is considered normal with no associated risk factors
e3/e3 is the most common genotype (60% of the general population
2. e2/e2 or e2/e3 e2 carriers with high cholesterol and TG respond to 'statin' therapy
These carriers do not respond to a low fat diet
e2 carriers have a positive response to drinking alcohol
e2 carriers have a low LDL but a high TG(triglyceride)
e2/e2 more than likely with develop a type III hyperlipoproteinemia
type III hyperlipoproteinemia has yellow plaques - xanthomas
3. e3/e4 associated with high levels of LDL and TG
higher incidence of development of early cardiovascular disease -
may not respond to 'conventional' statin therapy
may do well with a low - fat diet
4. e4/e4 higher incidence for the development of Alzheimer's Disease/Dementia
So what does all this mean ? I would see our doctor , Thea Marx, naturopathic doctor and have your genes examined. Get a comprehensive look at your 23andme, or genomic insight It is a well worth appointment
She will analyze these tests , discuss a dietary lifestyle change based on your blood type . She studied with Dr Peter D’Adamo- Eat Right for Your Blood Type.
Until tomorrow