Apoliprotein E (ApoE)

General Use: 

Apolipolipoprotein E is a major component of very low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs). VLDLs transport lipids through the blood between the liver and other tissues to maintain normal cholesterol levels. Maintaining normal levels of cholesterol and triglycerides is essential for prevention of cardiovascular diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels. Variations in ApoE result in an increased risk for coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis, and peripheral vascular disease. Certain variations of ApoE are also associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Limitations: 

Rare isoforms of ApoE will not be detected. If rare alleles are suspected, phenotyping by isoelectric focusing may be indicated. Diagnostic errors can occur due to rare sequence variations.

Methodology: 

Multiplex polymerase chain reaction and allele-specific primer extension or real-time polymerase chain reaction with fluorescence detection.