THE IMPACT OF INTERACTIONS BETWEEN APOE GENOTYPE AND SELF-REPORTED SLEEP QUALITY ON COGNITIVE AGING

Abstract

Previous research has found that cognitive functioning in advanced age can be impacted both by genetic and behavioral factors. This study sought to look at the effects of apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype, self-reported sleep quality, and age on measures of cognitive functioning. A cohort of healthy older adults (50-89 years old) was split into older and younger age groups for analysis in relation to sleep quality and APOE ?4 carrier status. A three-way ANCOVA was performed to test main effects and interactions. Significant main effects were observed for age across all measured cognitive domains, with older age predicting worse scores. No significant two-way interactions were found. Significant three-way interactions between APOE genotype, sleep quality, and age were observed for processing speed, executive function, and memory. Follow-up testing suggests that among non APOE ?4 carriers, poor sleep may lead participants to be more susceptible to the effects of older age. APOE ?4 carrier status appeared to exacerbate the negative effects of poor sleep among the younger group, as well as the effect of age for good sleepers. A deeper understanding of the relationship between APOE genotype, sleep quality, and age could lead to interventions to reduce the risk of developing dementia among older adults.