Effect of apolipoprotein E (apoE) phenotype on the apoE content of CSF-HDL in children

Satoshi Hirayama1, Takashi Miida, Konen Obayashi

  • 1Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Homeostatic Regulation and Developments, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Asahimachi 1-757, Niigata City, Niigata 951-8510, Japan.

Insights

The apolipoprotein E (apoE) phenotype does not alter cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) high-density lipoprotein (HDL) composition in children. However, the CSF-apoE/phospholipid ratio is higher in children than adults, suggesting developmental differences.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Biochemistry
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is primarily composed of apolipoprotein E (apoE).
  • Neuronal apoE receptors suggest CSF-apoE-HDL's role in central nervous system (CNS) development.
  • The apoE phenotype influences adult Alzheimer's disease risk, prompting investigation in children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate if the apolipoprotein E (apoE) phenotype affects the composition and concentration of CSF-HDL in children.
  • To compare CSF-HDL parameters between children and adults based on apoE phenotype.

Main Methods:

  • Determined apoE phenotype in 107 neurologically normal individuals (67 children) using isoelectric focusing.
  • Measured CSF concentrations of apoE, total cholesterol (TC), and phospholipids (PL).
  • Analyzed apoE/PL ratios in CSF samples.

Main Results:

  • No significant differences in CSF-apoE, TC, or PL concentrations or apoE/PL ratio were found across apoE phenotypes in children.
  • CSF-apoE/PL ratio was significantly higher in children compared to adults.
  • Allele frequencies for apoE epsilon 4, 3, and 2 were 0.082, 0.888, and 0.030, respectively.

Conclusions:

  • The apoE phenotype does not influence CSF-HDL composition or concentration in pediatric subjects.
  • Speculation that CSF-HDL enriched with apoE may protect apoE4 carriers from impaired CNS development in childhood.
Abstract