The Apo E StripAssay kit from Viennalab is a reliable and accurate solution for the identification of the three common alleles of the apolipoprotein E (Apo E) gene. This kit is designed to detect the ε2, ε3, and ε4 alleles of the Apo E gene, which are associated with different risk profiles for cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease. The assay is based on the PCR-reverse hybridization method, and it allows for the simultaneous detection and differentiation of the three alleles.

The Apo E gene is located on chromosome 19 and encodes a protein that plays a crucial role in lipid metabolism. The three common alleles of the Apo E gene differ by a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) at positions 112 and 158, resulting in the amino acid substitutions Cys112Arg and Arg158Cys. The ε2 allele has two Cys residues, ε3 has one of each, and ε4 has two Arg residues. These differences in the protein sequence can affect its function and, consequently, the risk of developing certain diseases.

The Apo E StripAssay kit is a convenient and reliable tool for detecting these alleles in clinical samples. The kit contains all the necessary components for PCR amplification and hybridization, including biotinylated primers, control DNA, and hybridization strips with immobilized probes for the three alleles. The procedure is simple and can be performed in less than two hours.

To perform the assay, genomic DNA is extracted from the patient’s sample, and a PCR amplification is performed using the biotinylated primers provided in the kit. The PCR product is then hybridized to the allele-specific probes immobilized on the strips. After washing away the unbound PCR products, a streptavidin-alkaline phosphatase conjugate is added, which binds to the biotinylated PCR products. Finally, a chromogenic substrate is added, which produces a purple color in the presence of alkaline phosphatase. The color intensity of each strip indicates the presence or absence of the corresponding allele.

The Apo E StripAssay kit offers several advantages over other methods for Apo E genotyping. First, it allows for the simultaneous detection of the three alleles, which is important for accurate classification of patients into risk categories. Second, the PCR-reverse hybridization method is highly sensitive and specific, allowing for the detection of low levels of DNA with high accuracy. Third, the kit is compatible with various types of samples, including whole blood, serum, and plasma, making it suitable for use in clinical laboratories.

In addition to its use in clinical diagnostics, the Apo E StripAssay kit has also been used in research studies investigating the relationship between Apo E genotypes and various diseases. For example, studies have shown that individuals carrying the ε4 allele have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, while those carrying the ε2 allele have a lower risk. Similarly, the ε4 allele has been associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.