The APOE ε4 allele is associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, while the ε2 allele appears to have a protective effect. The underlying mechanisms involve differences in lipid transport and metabolism, amyloid-beta accumulation, and neuronal repair processes. Individuals carrying the ε4 allele are also at an increased risk for cardiovascular diseases due to its role in lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis.
