APOE Biology and Genotype-Defined Cells
Apolipoprotein E (APOE) is a key lipid transport protein with important roles in both the brain and peripheral tissues. In the brain, APOE is produced predominantly by astrocytes and supports lipid and cholesterol homeostasis, neuronal function, and cellular maintenance. In the liver, APOE plays an important role in lipoprotein metabolism and lipid transport.
APOE genotype can influence lipid handling and cellular responses. APOE4, in particular, has been associated with altered lipid metabolism, neuroinflammation, and cellular stress in the brain, while APOE variation is also relevant to peripheral lipid and metabolic pathways.
Primary human cells from donors with confirmed APOE genotypes provide a physiologically relevant model for investigating genotype-associated phenotypes across neuroscience, neurodegeneration, lipid metabolism, cardiovascular, and metabolic research.
APOE Genotype-Defined Human Astrocytes
Primary human astrocytes from donors with confirmed APOE genotypes, including E2, E3, and E4 alleles. The table below summarizes the corresponding rs429358 and rs7412 variant combinations and their associated Alzheimer’s disease risk.
| APOE Allele | Effect on Alzheimer's Risk |
|---|---|
| E2 | Lower risk (protective association) |
| E3 | Typical/neutral risk |
| E4 | Increased risk |
| rs429358 | rs7412 | APOE Allele | Alzheimer's Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| T/T | T/T | E2/E2 | Lowest associated risk (protective) |
| T/T | C/T | E2/E3 | Lower / decreased associated risk |
| T/C | T/C | E2/E4 | Neutral to slightly altered risk (balanced by E2 and E4) |
| T/T | C/C | E3/E3 | Typical / average baseline risk (most common) |
| T/C | C/C | E3/E4 | Increased associated risk |
| C/C | C/C | E4/E4 | Highest associated risk |
What Researchers Can Do with Genotype-Defined Astrocytes
Standard primary astrocyte lots are sourced from donors of unknown APOE genotype. When genotype is uncontrolled, inherited differences in APOE status contribute to variability between experimental groups that cannot be attributed to treatment or condition.
Control a Key Biological Variable
Select donor APOE genotype as part of experimental design rather than treating genotype as background variability.
Compare Defined Genetic Backgrounds
Run APOE3/3 and APOE4/4 astrocytes side-by-side under identical culture conditions in the same experiment.
Study Genotype-Dependent Responses
Characterize how APOE genotype influences lipid handling, inflammatory signaling, and drug response in primary human astrocytes.
Preserve Native Donor Biology
Primary astrocytes retain donor-specific cellular characteristics and native human signaling responses that can complement developmentally derived iPSC-astrocyte models.
Complement Existing Models
Use genotype-defined primary astrocytes alongside iPSC-derived or CRISPR-edited astrocytes to build a more complete picture of APOE-dependent mechanisms.
Pharmacogenomic Screening
Screen compounds against APOE3/3 and APOE4/4 backgrounds to identify genotype-dependent therapeutic responses before advancing to in vivo models.
Applications Specific to APOE Astrocyte Biology
Requesting Genotype-Defined Lots
Genotype-defined lots are available by request. Lot availability varies by genotype. A selection and verification fee applies per vial and will be reflected in your quote.
Identify the Cell Type
Select the cell type and catalog number: Human Primary Astrocytes, Cat. #1800.
Specify APOE Genotype
Specify the APOE genotype required — APOE3/3, APOE4/4, or APOE3/4.
Submit Your Request
Our team will confirm current lot availability and provide a quote with COA documentation.
Please note that availability varies by genotype and donor lot. A selection and verification fee will be applied per vial and reflected in your quote.
For information on available genotypes, assistance selecting the right cells, or inquiries about additional genotypes and cell types, please contact us at info@sciencellonline.com, or call 1.877.602.8549.