Final answer:
The APOE4 allele of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene increases the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease. It is considered a risk gene that affects the probability of getting Alzheimer's but does not guarantee it.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of Alzheimer's disease, different alleles of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene are associated with an increased or decreased risk of developing the disease. The allele APOE4 is known to significantly increase the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's, especially late-onset Alzheimer's disease. The APOE gene has three common forms, or alleles: APOE2, APOE3, and APOE4. APOE2 is relatively rare and may provide some protection against the disease. APOE3, the most common allele, does not seem to affect the risk of Alzheimer's disease. APOE4, on the other hand, is less common than APOE3 but is strongly associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's and is considered a risk gene. However, it is important to note that having an APOE4 allele does not guarantee that an individual will develop Alzheimer's, but rather, it increases the probability. There are also other genes that may contribute to the disease, and the risk is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
Therefore, the correct answer to which allele gives a greater chance of inheriting Alzheimer's disease is c) APOE4.