APOE

APOE (Apolipoprotein E) is the major apoprotein of chylomicron. It binds to specific liver and peripheral cell receptors, mediating the binding, internalization and catabolism of lipoprotein particles. It acts as a ligand for the LDL (apo-B / E) receptor as well as a ligand for liver-specific apo-E receptor (chylomicron remnants), and is essential for regulates the normal catabolism of triglyceride-rich lipoprotein components. Mutations in this gene result in familial dysbetalipoproteinemia or type III hyperlipoproteinemia (HLP III), in which elevated plasma cholesterol and triglycerides are a result of impaired clearance of chylomicron and VLDL residuals. The relevant pathways are statin pathway and metabolism.