Apo E Gene Polymorphism Affects Development of Type 2 Diabetic Nephropathy in Asian Populations, Especially in East Asians: An Updated Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND: Many studies have determined the correlation between the Apolipoprotein E (APO E) gene polymorphisms and diabetic nephropathy, but their results are inconclusive. MATERIAL/METHODS: With the aim to confirm this correlation, we performed a meta-analysis of 16 studies. The dichotomous data are presented as the odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS: The results of our study indicate that APO ɛ2 allele among the pooled Asian populations were more likely to show high risk of DN development (2 allele vs. ɛ3 allele: pooled OR =1.629, 95% CI=1.010–2.628, P=0.045). For further analysis, the APO ɛ2 allele was associated with progress of DN in the group with duration >10 years, but not in the group with duration <10 years (ɛ2 allele vs. ɛ3 allele: pooled OR=1.920, 95% CI=1.338–2.754, P<0.001). The APO ɛ2 polymorphism increased the susceptibility to DN in Asian population compared with healthy people (ɛ2 allele vs. ɛ3 allele: pooled OR=1.629, 95% CI=1.010–2.628, P=0.045). CONCLUSIONS: Development of DN is associated with APO E polymorphisms in Asian populations, especially in East Asians.