The apolipoprotein E protein plays a role in the metabolism of fats in the brain. It is involved in the repair and maintenance of neurons and the transport of cholesterol. The ε4 variant is less effective at these tasks compared to ε2 and ε3, leading to an increased accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, which are hallmark features of Alzheimer's disease. It also contributes to increased neuroinflammation and impaired synaptic function.
