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Apolipoprotein E genotype frequency patterns in aged Danes as revealed by logistic regression models
Qihua Tan1, Lene Christiansen, Kaare Christensen
1Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Genetics, KKA, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark. qihua.tan@ouh.fyns-amt.dk
European Journal of Epidemiology
|October 6, 2004
Summary
The ApoE epsilon4 allele declines with age in individuals over 73, indicating a detrimental effect on survival. This study examined genotype frequencies in older adults to understand aging.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Gerontology
- Population Health
Background:
- The apolipoprotein E (ApoE) gene is crucial in aging research, but its genotype frequency patterns in older populations are understudied.
- Traditional case-control designs limit investigations into age-related genotype changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genotype frequency trajectory of the ApoE gene in individuals aged 73 to 95.
- To examine the mode of gene function (dominant, recessive, additive) for ApoE at advanced ages.
Main Methods:
- Genotyping of 748 individuals (twin pairs and unrelated).
- Application of binomial and multinomial logistic regression models.
- Use of generalized estimation equations (GEEs) to account for twin pair correlations.
Main Results:
- Observed and fitted frequencies show a consistent decline in the ApoE epsilon4 allele with advancing age.
- The ApoE epsilon4 allele demonstrates a significant, steadily deleterious effect, increasing mortality risk in older adults.
Conclusions:
- The ApoE epsilon4 allele has a dominant, detrimental impact on survival at advanced ages.
- Age-related decline in ApoE epsilon4 frequency highlights its role in longevity and mortality.