APOE Gene Research Paper

Sequence one’s protein was found to be apolipoprotein E. This protein is known as the APOE gene. The protein forms molecules called lipoproteins by combining fats in the body. Lipoproteins have the responsibility to package cholesterol and other fats, and send them through the bloodstream. To prevent disorders with this protein, it is important to maintain the right level of cholesterol, so that it does not affect the heart and blood vessels that could causes a heart attack, stroke, or a cardiovascular disease. The APOE gene has three different versions called alleles. The alleles of this protein, are the e2, e3, and e4. E3 allele is the most common. The APOE gene has been known to cause cardiovascular diseases, when a person carries the APOE e4 allele. Having the apoe e4 allele can increase the chance of developing atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis can cause a heart attack or a stroke from the build-up of fatty substances or scar tissue in the arteries. The arteries, …show more content…
This condition causes increase levels of cholesterol, fatty material called triglycerides, it increases the level of molecules called beta-very low-density lipoproteins. The function of this beta-very-low-density lipoproteins, are to carry the fats and cholesterol through the bloodstream. When the level increases, they get caught in the bloodstream, causing build-up, which leads to the disease, atherosclerosis. To develop atherosclerosis, it is common to inherit the gene through family members . Smoking, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure can also cause atherosclerosis. Symptoms may include chest pain, or pressure to the chest, shoulders, arms, neck, or back. Fatigue may occur, along with emotional distress, or shortness of breath. The symptoms all occur from the conditions of high viscosity in the arteries. “Cardiovascular disease is the number 1 killer in America, with more than 800,000 deaths in 2005” (WebMD