The role of Apolipoprotein E in bone metabolism

Apolipoprotein E (apoE) is a major structural apolipoprotein of several lipoprotein classes. Over the last 13 years, numerous studies have focused on the question whether human apoE affects bone phenotypes and, more recently, whether apoE regulates bone metabolism in mice. Here, we first provide a brief background introduction into the structure, established physiological and pathophysiological functions of apoE, and will then discuss the new aspects of the emerging role of apoE in bone. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: interactions Between Bone, Adipose Tissue and Metabolism. (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.