Decreased plasma C-reactive protein levels in APOE ε4 allele carriers

Authors: Martiskainen H, Takalo M, Solomon A, Stančáková A, Marttinen M, Natunen T, Haapasalo A, Herukka SK, Kuusisto J, Soininen H, Kivipelto M, Laakso M, Hiltunen M

Journal: Ann Clin Transl Neurol

Year: 2018

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/acn3.639

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveApolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 allele is a well‐established risk factor in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, we assessed the effects of APOE polymorphism on cardiovascular, metabolic, and inflammation‐related parameters in population‐based cohorts.MethodsAssociation of cardiovascular, metabolic, and inflammation‐related parameters with the APOE polymorphism in a large Finnish Metabolic Syndrome in Men (METSIM) cohort and Finnish Geriatric Intervention study to prevent cognitive impairment and disability (FINGER) were investigated. Brain‐specific effects were addressed in postmortem brain samples.ResultsIndividuals carrying the APOE ε4 allele displayed significantly elevated serum/plasma LDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B levels. APOE ε3ε4 and ε4ε4 significantly associated with lower levels of plasma high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP). Plasma amyloid‐β 42 (Aβ42) and reduced hs‐CRP levels showed an association independently of the APOE status.InterpretationThese data suggest that the APOE ε4 allele associates with lower levels of hs‐CRP in individuals without dementia. Moreover, Aβ42 may encompass anti‐inflammatory effects reflected by reduced hs‐CRP levels.