Discovery of a Missense Mutation (Q222K) of the APOE Gene from the Australian Imaging, Biomarker and Lifestyle Study

After age, polymorphisms of the Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene are the biggest risk factor for the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). During our investigation to discovery biomarkers in plasma, using 2D gel electrophoresis, we found an individual with and unusual apoE isoelectric point compared to APOE ɛ2, ɛ3, and ɛ4 carriers. Whole exome sequencing of APOE from the donor confirmed a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in exon 4, translating to a rare Q222K missense mutation. The apoE ɛ4 (Q222K) mutation did not form dimers or complexes observed for apoE ɛ2 & ɛ3 proteins.