APOE ε4/ε4 diminishes neurotrophic function of human iPSC-derived astrocytes.

ABSTRACT: The ε4 allele of the APOE gene encoding apolipoprotein E (apoE) is a strong genetic risk factor for aging-related cognitive decline as well as late-onset Alzheimer's disease (AD) compared to the common ε3 allele. In the central nervous system, apoE is produced primarily by astrocytes and functions in transporting lipids including cholesterol to support neuronal homeostasis and synaptic integrity. Although mouse models and corresponding primary cells have provided valuable tools for studying apoE isoform-dependent functions, recent studies have shown that human astrocytes have a distinct gene expression profile compare with rodent astrocytes. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from individuals carrying specific gene variants or mutations provide an alternative cellular mod

SUBMITTER: Zhao J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5886091 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature