{Reference Type}: Systematic Review
{Title}: Apolipoprotein E Genotype Moderation of the Association Between Physical Activity and Brain Health. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
{Author}: Pearce AM;Marr C;Dewar M;Gow AJ;
{Journal}: Front Aging Neurosci
{Volume}: 13
{Issue}: 0
{Year}: 2021
{Factor}: 5.702
{DOI}: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.815439
{Abstract}: <B>BACKGROUND: </B>Possession of one or two e4 alleles of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene is associated with cognitive decline and dementia risk. Some evidence suggests that physical activity may benefit carriers of the e4 allele differently.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies which assessed APOE differences in the association between physical activity and: lipid profile, Alzheimer's disease pathology, brain structure and brain function in healthy adults. Searches were carried out in PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science and PsycInfo.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Thirty studies were included from 4,896 papers screened. Carriers of the e4 allele gained the same benefit from physical activity as non-carriers on most outcomes. For brain activation, e4 carriers appeared to gain a greater benefit from physical activity on task-related and resting-state activation and resting-state functional connectivity compared to non-carriers. Post-hoc analysis identified possible compensatory mechanisms allowing e4 carriers to maintain cognitive function.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Though there is evidence suggesting physical activity may benefit e4 carriers differently compared to non-carriers, this may vary by the specific brain health outcome, perhaps limited to brain activation. Further research is required to confirm these findings and elucidate the mechanisms.