Apolipoprotein E, Health, and Mortality in Taiwanese Older Adults

Sarinnapha Vasunilashorn, Princeton University
Dana A. Glei, Georgetown University
Maxine Weinstein, Georgetown University

Apolipoprotein E (ApoE), a commonly examined genetic indicator, has been associated with health and longevity. Numerous studies have linked ApoE to health outcomes including cardiovascular disease and cognitive function; fewer studies have examined the relationship of ApoE to a wider array of biological markers of health and across indicators of physical function and depressive symptoms. This study investigates the relationship between ApoE and biomarkers at a single time and 6-year change in biomarkers, as well as ApoE and mortality. We examined a population-based sample of Taiwanese adults ages 54+. The proportion of ApoE2 carriers with at-risk levels of total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was lower than non-carriers, suggesting a potential protective effect of ApoE2 on blood lipid levels. ApoE genotype was not, however, associated with 6-year change in biomarkers nor was it associated with mortality after 8-years of follow-up.