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Interactions between age and apoE genotype on fasting and postprandial triglycerides levels
Andrew L Carvalho-Wells1, Kim G Jackson, Rosalynn Gill
1Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences and Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AP, UK. a.l.wells@reading.ac.uk
The apolipoprotein E (apoE) epsilon 4 (E4) allele is linked to higher postprandial triglyceride responses, especially in older adults. This exaggerated lipaemia may increase coronary heart disease risk for E4 carriers.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Metabolic Health
- Cardiovascular Disease Risk
Background:
- Genetic factors influencing postprandial lipaemia are not fully understood.
- The apolipoprotein E (apoE) epsilon mutation is a common genetic determinant with potential metabolic implications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of apolipoprotein E (apoE) epsilon genotype on postprandial triglyceride (TG) response.
- To assess how age, body mass index, and gender influence genotype penetrance.
Main Methods:
- A postprandial study involving 251 healthy adults.
- Blood samples collected after a test breakfast and lunch until 480 minutes.
- Analysis of fasting lipids and postprandial triglyceride area under the curve (TG AUC) by apoE genotype.
Main Results:
- Significant impact of apoE genotype on fasting total cholesterol (TC), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), and TG.
- E4 carriers showed higher fasting TG and TG AUC compared to E3/E3 genotype.
- Age significantly interacted with genotype for TC; older participants (>50 years) showed a stronger genotype effect on TC, LDL-C, and TG AUC.
Conclusions:
- Exaggerated postprandial lipaemia in E4 allele carriers may contribute to increased coronary heart disease risk.
- This effect appears more pronounced in older adults.
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