Advancements in APOE and dementia research: Highlights from the 2023 AAIC Advancements: APOE conference

Alzheimers Dement. 2024 Sep;20(9):6590-6605. doi: 10.1002/alz.13877. Epub 2024 Jul 19.

Abstract

Introduction: The apolipoprotein E gene (APOE) is an established central player in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), with distinct apoE isoforms exerting diverse effects. apoE influences not only amyloid-beta and tau pathologies but also lipid and energy metabolism, neuroinflammation, cerebral vascular health, and sex-dependent disease manifestations. Furthermore, ancestral background may significantly impact the link between APOE and AD, underscoring the need for more inclusive research.

Methods: In 2023, the Alzheimer's Association convened multidisciplinary researchers at the "AAIC Advancements: APOE" conference to discuss various topics, including apoE isoforms and their roles in AD pathogenesis, progress in apoE-targeted therapeutic strategies, updates on disease models and interventions that modulate apoE expression and function.

Results: This manuscript presents highlights from the conference and provides an overview of opportunities for further research in the field.

Discussion: Understanding apoE's multifaceted roles in AD pathogenesis will help develop targeted interventions for AD and advance the field of AD precision medicine.

Highlights: APOE is a central player in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. APOE exerts a numerous effects throughout the brain on amyloid-beta, tau, and other pathways. The AAIC Advancements: APOE conference encouraged discussions and collaborations on understanding the role of APOE.

Keywords: APOE; Alzheimer's disease; apolipoprotein E; conference proceedings; dementia; lipids; microglia; neuroinflammation; risk factor; therapeutics; vasculature.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease* / genetics
  • Alzheimer Disease* / metabolism
  • Amyloid beta-Peptides / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Apolipoproteins E* / genetics
  • Apolipoproteins E* / metabolism
  • Biomedical Research
  • Congresses as Topic
  • Dementia / genetics
  • Dementia / metabolism
  • Humans

Substances

  • Apolipoproteins E
  • Amyloid beta-Peptides

Grants and funding