Apolipoprotein E and atherosclerosis in Greenland Inuit

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology
• Anthropology

Background:

• Apolipoprotein E (apo E) plays a crucial role in lipid metabolism and is associated with cardiovascular disease risk.
• Understanding apo E genotype frequencies in diverse populations is important for assessing disease susceptibility.
• Previous studies have reported varying apo E allele frequencies across different ethnic groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the allele frequencies of apolipoprotein E in the Greenland Inuit population.
• To investigate the association between apolipoprotein E genotype and the prevalence and extent of atherosclerotic lesions.
• To explore potential links between apo E genotype, serum lipids, glycohemoglobin levels, and adiposity in Greenland Inuit.

Main Methods:

• Autopsy specimens (arterial, liver, serum) were collected from Greenland Inuit.
• Apolipoprotein E genotyping was performed on 42 females and 56 males.
• Allele frequencies were calculated and compared with existing data from other populations.
• Anthropometric data, blood analyte levels, and atherosclerotic lesion data were analyzed for associations with apo E genotype.

Main Results:

• Apolipoprotein E allele frequencies in Greenland Inuit were E2: 0.015, E3: 0.776, and E4: 0.209.
• These frequencies were comparable to other Inuit and Alaska Native populations but differed from Japanese, Norwegian, Swedish, USA-Black, and USA-White populations.
• No significant associations were found between apo E genotype and the extent of atherosclerotic lesions in the aorta and coronary arteries.
• No strong evidence for associations between apo E genotype and serum lipids, glycohemoglobin, or adiposity was observed.

Conclusions:

• The Greenland Inuit population exhibits a distinct apolipoprotein E allele frequency profile compared to many other global populations.
• Apolipoprotein E genotype does not appear to be a significant determinant of atherosclerosis severity in this specific population.
• Further research may be needed to elucidate the complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors influencing cardiovascular health in the Greenland Inuit.