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

Targets

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