Polymorphisms of the apolipoprotein E gene affect response to atorvastatin therapy in acute ischemic stroke.

APOE gene polymorphisms affect the biological functions of atorvastatin. Compared to the ε3 or ε4 allele, the ε2 allele exerted a greater lipid-lowering effect on LDL-C levels, enhanced the ability of atorvastatin to stabilize carotid artery plaques, and slowed carotid artery plaque progression.