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Apolipoprotein E, B vitamins, and cognitive function in older adults.

David Bunce1, Miia Kivipelto, Ake Wahlin

  • 1Department of Psychology, Goldsmiths College, University of London, London, SE14 6NW, UK. d.bunce@gold.ac.uk

The Journals of Gerontology. Series B, Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences
|January 12, 2005
PubMed
Summary

Older adults with the apolipoprotein E (APOE) epsilon4 allele and low vitamin B12 showed deficits in recognizing older famous faces. This combined effect impacts face recognition, independent of dementia risk.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Gerontology
  • Nutritional Psychiatry

Background:

  • Apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype influences cognitive aging.
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency is prevalent in older adults and affects cognition.
  • The interplay between APOE genotype and B vitamins on cognitive functions, particularly face recognition, remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the combined effects of APOE genotype (epsilon4 carrier status) and vitamin B12 levels on cognitive functions in older adults.
  • Specifically examine recognition of dated and contemporary famous faces, short-term memory, and visuospatial abilities.

Main Methods:

  • Cross-sectional study involving adults aged 75 years and older.
  • Assessment of APOE genotype (epsilon4 presence/absence).

Related Experiment Videos

  • Measurement of serum vitamin B12 levels (normal vs. low).
  • Cognitive testing including famous face recognition (dated and contemporary), short-term memory, and visuospatial skills.

    • Main Results:

    • No significant associations were found between B vitamins and APOE genotype regarding short-term memory, visuospatial skills, or contemporary famous face recognition.
    • A significant deficit in recognizing dated famous faces was observed in individuals carrying the APOE epsilon4 allele who also had low vitamin B12 levels.
    • This cognitive deficit was not associated with incipient dementia up to six years post-testing.

    Conclusions:

    • The APOE epsilon4 allele and low vitamin B12 levels may synergistically impair specific cognitive functions, particularly the recognition of older familiar faces.
    • Neurological substrates supporting face recognition may be particularly vulnerable to this combined genetic and nutritional influence.
    • Findings suggest potential targets for interventions aimed at preserving cognitive function in at-risk older populations, irrespective of dementia diagnosis.