Depressive symptoms and APOE polymorphisms in an elderly population-based sample.
OBJECTIVE
Apolipoprotein E (APOE) has been regarded as the principal susceptibility gene linked with Alzheimer's disease, also suggesting a relationship with depression in the elderly population. Thus, the purpose was to investigate the association of APOE polymorphisms with depression in elderly adults.


METHODS
APOE polymorphisms were determined in a Mexican population-based sample older than 60 years (n=1566) using 5' exonuclease TaqMan genotyping assays.


RESULTS
The distribution of the APOE allele and genotype frequencies was similar in patients with and without depression. There was no significant association between the presence of alleles or genotypes and depression and anxiety (Short Anxiety Screening Test) considering several combinations of other features. However, patients with the APOE*4 allele presented more thinking and concentration impairment than those patients with the APOE*3 allele.


CONCLUSIONS
Genetic variation at the APOE gene may contribute to some depressive symptoms in late-onset depression, rather than being a specific risk factor.
García-Peña
Carmen
C
Epidemiologic and Health Service Research Unit, Aging Area, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social.
Juarez-Cedillo
Teresa
T
Cruz-Robles
David
D
Fragoso
José Manuel
JM
Sánchez-García
Sergio
S
Rodríguez-Pérez
José Manuel
JM
Gallo
Joseph J
JJ
Wagner
Fernando A
FA
Vargas-Alarcón
Gilberto
G
D000368:Aged; D001057:Apolipoproteins E / Q000235:genetics*; D003863:Depression / Q000235:genetics*; D005260:Female; D005787:Gene Frequency; D005838:Genotype; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011110:Polymorphism, Genetic
D001057:Apolipoproteins E