Last reviewed: June 1, 2026
2017Nature
ApoE4 markedly exacerbates tau-mediated neurodegeneration in a mouse model of tauopathy
Shi Y, Yamada K, Liddelow SA, et al., Holtzman DM
Abstract summary
Demonstrated that APOE4 impairs microglial amyloid clearance and exacerbates tau-mediated neurodegeneration. Anti-APOE antibodies reduced amyloid plaque burden in mouse models. APOE4 microglia show impaired phagocytic capacity relative to APOE3 microglia, directly linking APOE genotype to microglial function.
Evidence labels
animal modelhuman genetics
Diseases
- Alzheimer's disease
Species
mouse, human
Methods
immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, mouse genetics
Therapeutic relevance
Anti-APOE antibody approach validated in preclinical models, supporting ongoing interest in APOE-targeted therapies.
Last reviewed: June 1, 2026