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Updated: Jul 20, 2026

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Published on: May 2, 2025
Apo E gene polymorphism on development of diabetic nephropathy
Necip Ilhan1, Neslihan Kahraman, Dilara Seçkin
1Department of Biochemistry, Firat University Firat Medical Center, Elazig, Turkey.
The epsilon4 allele of the Apolipoprotein E (Apo E) gene polymorphism is a significant risk factor for developing diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetes patients. This finding aids in predicting disease progression and managing complications.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Endocrinology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a leading cause of premature morbidity and mortality, primarily due to complications like atherosclerosis and diabetic nephropathy (DN).
- Apolipoprotein E (Apo E) gene polymorphism influences lipid metabolism and is associated with various health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between Apo E gene polymorphism and the risk of developing diabetic nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes.
- To identify Apo E isoforms as potential prognostic markers for DN in T2DM.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 108 patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), categorized into three groups: diabetes with nephropathy (n=37), diabetes without nephropathy (n=71), and healthy controls (n=46).
- Apolipoprotein E (Apo E) genotypes were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
- Lipid profiles, including total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, were analyzed.
Main Results:
- The frequency of the epsilon4 allele of the Apo E gene was significantly higher in diabetic patients with nephropathy (10.8%) compared to controls (2.2%) (p < 0.05).
- In diabetic patients without nephropathy, individuals with the epsilon2 allele exhibited significantly lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels compared to those with epsilon3 and epsilon4 alleles.
- The epsilon4 allele was identified as a prognostic risk factor for DN development in T2DM.
Conclusions:
- The epsilon4 allele of the Apo E gene polymorphism is a significant prognostic risk factor for the development of diabetic nephropathy in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
- Apo E genotyping may assist in identifying T2DM patients at higher risk for DN, enabling early intervention and personalized management strategies.
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