APOE4: A Culprit for the Vulnerability of COVID-19 in Alzheimer's Patients

Abstract

Apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4) is one of the primary genetic risk factors for late-onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD). While its primary function is to transport cholesterol, it also regulates metabolism, aggregation, and deposition of amyloid-β (Aβ) in the brain. The disruption in the generation and removal of Aβ in the brain is the primary cause of memory and cognitive loss and thus plays a significant role in the development of AD. In several prior genetic investigations, the APOE4 allele has been linked to higher susceptibility to severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV-2) infection and COVID-19 mortality. However, information on the involvement of APOE4 in the underlying pathology and clinical symptoms is limited. Due to the high infection and mortality rate of COVID-19 in AD individuals, challenges have been identified in the management of AD patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to provide evidence-based, more effective healthcare, it is critical to identify underlying concerns and, preferably, biomarkers. The risk variant APOE4 imparts enhanced infectivity by the underlying coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 at a cellular level, genetic level, and route level. Here we review existing advances in clinical and basic research on the AD-related gene APOE, as well as the role of APOE in AD pathogenesis, using neurobiological evidence. Moreover, the role of APOE in severe COVID-19 in Alzheimer's patients has also been reviewed.