Apolipoprotein E, B vitamins, and cognitive function in older adults

Abstract

Recognition of dated and contemporary famous faces, short-term memory, and visuospatial abilities were investigated in adults aged 75 years and older as a function of apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype, {epsilon}4 or not {epsilon}4, and whether participants recorded normal or low levels of B vitamins. No associations between B vitamins and APOE were identified in respect to short-term memory or visuospatial skills, or for contemporary famous faces. However, in respect to the recognition of dated famous faces, deficits in persons carrying the {epsilon}4 allele who also recorded low vitamin B12 values were found. The results suggest that the neurological structures and processes supporting face recognition may be vulnerable to the combined influence of the APOE {epsilon}4 allele and low levels of vitamin B12. This finding was unrelated to incipient dementia up to 6 years following testing. The results are discussed with reference to the neuroanatomical reserves that {epsilon}4 carriers may possess.