Rapid identification of the common apo E isoform genotype using polymerase chain reaction-single strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP).

Polymerase chain reaction single-strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) was used to identify the common apoprotein E (apo E) isoform genotypes. DNA from the target sequence on apo E was amplified by PCR from peripheral blood genomic DNA. Non-radiolabelled natural PCR products were electrophoresed on a polyacrylamide gradient gel and automatically silver-stained. Bands compatible with each of the three common apo E isoforms were obtained. This method, which does not require restriction enzymes or DNA purification, is a rapid and useful means of detecting the apo E isoform genotype.