The association of apolipoprotein E polymorphism and lipid levels in children with a family history of premature coronary artery disease

BackgroundPolymorphisms in the apolipoprotein E (apoE) gene may modulate lipoprotein metabolism and influence plasma lipid levels. Thus, they have been associated with relative risk of coronary artery disease (CAD).ObjectiveTo evaluate the association of apolipoprotein E polymorphism and lipid levels in children with family history of premature coronary artery disease.MethodsThe apoE genotypes, allele frequencie,s and plasma lipid levels were analyzed in 137 children. Among these children, 70 (study group) had and 67 (control group) did not have a parental history of premature CADResultsTotal cholesterol (Tc) levels were greater in the study group (P = .04). The frequencies of ɛ3ɛ4 genotype and ɛ4 allele were significantly greater in the study group (P = 005 for both), Thɛ ɛ2 allele correlated negatively with Tc and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, and ɛ4 had a positive correlation with Tc and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.ConclusionsTc levels are influenced by apoE genotypes in childhood. Also, the frequency of the ɛ4 allele is greater in children with family history of premature CAD. The ɛ4 allele may be associated with an increased risk for development of atherosclerosis by elevated levels of Tc in children with family history of CAD. The evaluation of apoE gene polymorhisms may contribute to the assessment of cardiovascular risk in children with a family history of CAD.