ADRB3 and PPARγ2 gene polymorphisms and their association with cardiovascular disease risk in postmenopausal women

OBJECTIVES

The contribution of heritability to the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is of interest as the identification of genes enhancing the susceptibility of individuals to CVD may help the design of clinical interventions optimized for the individual's genome.

METHODS

We studied the associations of polymorphism of ADRB3 and PPARγ2 genes with obesity indices, unfavorable lipid profile parameters and insulin resistance index HOMA in 343 postmenopausal women.

RESULTS

No association was found between tested polymorphisms and CVD risk factors such as total cholesterol ≥ 5.0 mmol/l, high density lipoprotein cholesterol < 1.2 mmol/l, low density lipoprotein cholesterol > 3.0 mmol/l and triacylglycerols > 1.7 mmol/l. The presence of arterial hypertension and HOMA value ≥ 1.95 were also not related to these polymorphisms. A significant association between PPARγ2 gene polymorphism and total body fat mass (odds ratio = 1.90 at p = 0.037) as well as android fat deposit mass (odds ratio = 1.82 at p = 0.048) was found.

CONCLUSIONS

CVD risk factors in postmenopausal women are not directly associated with the polymorphisms of PPARγ2 and ADRB3 genes. We suggest that some indirect link between PPARγ2 gene polymorphism and susceptibility of postmenopausal women to CVD may exist. This suggestion is based on our finding that high total body fat mass and high android fat deposits are associated with the presence of the Pro12Ala allele of the PPARγ2 gene.

In contrast to matrix metalloproteinases, serum adiponectin concentrations increase after radioiodine treatment of thyrotoxicosis

BACKGROUND

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), together with their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs), remodel extracellular matrix under physiological and pathological conditions and are implicated in pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, cancer and in chronic inflammation. We have endeavoured to assess whether concentrations of MMPs, TIMPs, and anti-inflammatory adiponectin are altered by pharmacological treatment of acute thyrotoxicosis or by radioiodine therapy (RIT).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We measured serum concentrations of MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, and adiponectin, TSH, free T4 (FT4) and free T3 (FT3) in 15 patients (4 males), age (years) 51.8±15.3 (mean±SD) with hyperthyroidism treated with thiamazole (Group 1) and in 20 subjects (2 males), treated for thyrotoxicosis with radioiodine, age 52.3±12.4 (Group 2), where blood samples were taken before RIT, visit 1 (V1), seven days post RIT, visit 2 (V2), and two to three months post RIT, visit 3 (V3).

RESULTS

In Group 1 there was no significant change in concentrations of MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, TIMP-2 or adiponectin, despite a fall in FT4 and FT3 (8.74±4.79 pg/ml vs 3.54±2.40 pg/ml, for FT3, and 4.48 ±2.21 ng/ml vs 1.02±1.07 ng/ml, for FT4, p<0.001). In Group 2 RIT did not cause any acute change in serum MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 or adiponectin (V1 vs V2). However, there was a significant increase in serum adiponectin [from 15201±8860 ng/ml (V1) to 19373±8657 ng/ml (at V3), p<0.05], and TIMP-2 at V3 [from 129±45 ng/ml (V1) to 149±38 ng/ml (V3), p<0.01]. There was no significant change MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 between V1 and V3. There was a decrease in FT4 and FT3 from 24.4±15.4 pmol/l (V1) to 14.7±10.6 pmol/l (V3), and from 10.0±5.65 (V1) to 6.1±4.8 pmol/l (V2), p<0.01, for FT4 and FT3, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Radioiodine therapy of thyrotoxicosis does not alter serum MMP-2, MMP-9 or TIMP-1 concentrations either acutely or after about three months of observation. An increase in serum adiponectin might reflect favourable effects of radioiodine administration on cardiovascular risk factors, while an increase in TIMP-2 (principal MMP-2 inhibitor) might lead to a decrease in free MMP-2 concentrations.

Pro12Ala PPAR γ2 gene polymorphism in PCOS women: the role of compounds regulating satiety

Five to ten percent of women of reproductive age suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Leptin, NPY, galanin, cholecystokinin (CCK) are involved in the regulation of eating behavior. PPARγ are receptors that are probably involved in hyperandrogenism. This study was designed to assess associations between the Pro12Ala PPARγ2 gene polymorphism and satiety factors in PCOS. Fifty-four PCOS women and 51 healthy women were studied. Leptin, NPY, galanin, CCK levels, and genetic studies to detect Pro12Ala PPARγ2 gene polymorphism were assessed. The leptin levels in the PCOS women carrying Pro12Ala genotype were higher than in those with Pro12Pro and Ala12Ala. The PCOS women had higher leptin and NPY levels and lower galanin levels. Obese PCOS patients had lower CCK levels.

CONCLUSIONS

In the PCOS women, a single Ala allele may have a protective role as far as hyperleptinemia is concerned. The PCOS women may reveal a disrupted central leptin/NPY feedback loop with some shifts in food intake.

Neuroendocrine control of metabolism

Metabolism is controlled through homeostatic system consisting of central centers, gut hormones, hormones from adipose tissue and the other hormonal axes. This cooperation is based on cross-talk between central and peripheral signals. Among them the hypothalamus plays a crucial role, with interconnected nuclei forming neuronal circuits. Other regions in the brain, such as the brain stem, the endocannabinoid system, the vagal afferents, are also involved in energy balance. The second component is peripheral source of signals--the gastrointestinal tract hormones. Additionally, adipokines from adipose tissue, thyrotropic, gonadotropic and somatotropic axes play a role in energy homeostasis. Knowledge about all components of this neuroendocrine circuit will be helpful in developing novel therapeutic approaches against the metabolic syndrome and its components.

Menopausal obesity and metabolic syndrome - PolSenior study

Obesity is a common problem and its health consequences depend on the phenotype of obesity. Clinical aspects of three phenotypes of obesity: upper body (visceral), lower body (healthy) and metabolic obesity with normal weight are discussed. The PolSenior study and other data show that the incidence of obesity increases during hormonal climacteric transformation with special emphasis on visceral (72%) and metabolic obesity with normal weight (16%). The etiology of menopausal obesity and fat redistribution with an increase incidence of menopausal metabolic syndrome is presented. The role of sex hormones and SHBG of fat mass and fat distribution in postmenopausal women is discussed on the basis of PolSenior study. The diagnostic-therapeutic algorithm for climacteric women is recommended according to cardiovascular diseases risk (CVD), elevated waist circumference, serum triglicerides, decreased HDL cholesterol, elevated fasting glucose, HOMA over 1.69 and BP over 130/80 mmHg. In women with CVD risk factors the metformin therapy is a golden standard.

Thyroid dysfunction and thyroid autoimmunity in a large unselected population of elderly subjects in Poland - the 'PolSenior' multicentre crossover study

INTRODUCTION

Data on the thyroid function of a randomly chosen elderly population was collected during a multicentre study performed in Poland (PolSenior) in 2007-2010.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The population of 4,190 participants under study was divided into six age subgroups of > 65 to > 90 years of age and a younger group aged between 55 and 59 years. Assessment of thyroid function was based on hormonal measurements.

RESULTS

Concentrations of both TSH and fT(4) were significantly higher in females than in males. No differences in TSH and fT(4) concentrations between different age groups were found. Thyroid dysfunction was revealed in more than 10% of participants, hypothyroidism in 7.95%, and hyperthyroidism in 2.95%. Both types of dysfunction were more prevalent in women, and in more than 80% both dysfunctions were subclinical. In 1,542 participants, concentrations of TPOAb were measured. Increased TPOAb was revealed in 19% of the cohort and the prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity was higher in women and also more often found in participants with hypothyroidism.

CONCLUSIONS

Cross sectional survey revealed thyroid dysfunctions in over 10% of non selected elderly population. No age related differences were found in TSH concentrations, TPOAb positivity and prevalence of thyroid dysfunctions.

Evaluation of the prevalence of metabolic obesity and normal weight among the Polish population

INTRODUCTION

In the 1980s, the idea evolved that some individuals with normal weight (Metabolically Obese, Normal-Weight), who probably have increased abdominal fat, have metabolic disturbances related to obesity. This observation initiated the concept of the metabolically obese but normal-weight syndrome (MONW). Since then, there have been only a few studies in non-obese subjects. MONW men and women should be regarded as at high risk for cardiovascular disease.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A group of 854 randomly chosen non-obese men and women, 20-40 years of age, was selected from three different areas of Poland - Szczecin, Krakow and Wroclaw. All subjects were interviewed and underwent physical examination, anthropometric measurements (waist circumference, hip circumference, BMI and WHR) as well as densitometry (total body DPX, total fat, android/gynoid deposit). Serum level of fasting glucose and insulin, indices of insulin sensibility (QUICKI) and insulin resistance (HOMA, FIRI), total cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL-C were measured using commercially available kits. LDL-C level was calculated using Friedewald's formula.

RESULTS

The total amassed fatty tissue and its android deposit was found to be significantly greater in MONW men and women. MONW women were found to exhibit increased levels of triglycerides and LDL-C but lower levels of HDL-C. In women with excess abdominal fat (EAF), fasting glucose and insulin levels, HOMA and FIRI were considerably higher, while QUICKI was lower. Triglyceride and LDL-C levels were also higher while HDL-C levels were lower. In men with EAF, increased levels of total cholesterol and LDL-C were confirmed.

CONCLUSIONS

The occurrence of MONW is contingent upon the diagnosis criterion and increases when the criterion represents the value of HOMA - 21.76% in women and 31.42% in men. The frequency of MONW occurrence is lower when the criterion for abdominal fat content limit is used, amounting to 15.78% in women and 7.83% in men.

Endocannabinoid type 1 receptor gene (CNR1) polymorphisms (rs806381, rs10485170, rs6454674, rs2023239) and cardiovascular risk factors in postmenopausal women

INTRODUCTION

The risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in women increases with menopausal stage. Obesity with metabolic disorders is the most important risk factor for CVD. The incidence of this phenotype of obesity increases in postmenopausal women. The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in regulation of several metabolic pathways. The aim of this work was to investigate whether genetic variations in the cannabinoid receptor gene (CNR1) can affect cardiovascular risk factors (e.g. fat distribution, obesity, fasting glucose, lipid profile, blood pressure, and free androgen and estrogen indexes) in postmenopausal women.

METHODS

The rs806381, rs10485170, rs6454674, and rs2023239 polymorphisms of the CNR1 gene were genotyped in 384 randomly selected postmenopausal Polish women (aged 50-60) using the minisequencing technique.

RESULTS

The rs806381, rs10485170, rs6454674, and rs2023239 polymorphisms were not significantly associated with anthropometric measures (waist circumference, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, body mass index [BMI], total fat, glucose, insulin, fasting insulin resistance index [FIRI]). However, the rs2023239 polymorphism was associated with the free androgen index (p = 0.03).

DISCUSSION

It seems that further genotyping of the endocannabinoid receptor gene cannot be used as a significant marker of predisposition to CVD in postmenopausal women, but it would be interesting to study this interrelation on a larger population of postmenopausal women.

Pro12Ala PPAR gamma2 gene polymorphism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

INTRODUCTION

The pathogenesis of PCOS has not been definitively determined and includes a number of genes linked with steroidogenesis, regulation of gonadotropin secretion, actions of insulin, obesity as well as chronic inflammatory processes. Some authors indicate that PPARgamma play a role in insulin sensitivity and are probably involved in hyperandrogenism in PCOS. The aim of the study was to assess the frequency of the Pro12Ala and Pro115Gln PPARgamma2 gene polymorphisms in women with PCOS.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

54 PCOS women and 51 healthy women were recruited. Genetic studies to detect Pro12Ala and Pro115Gln PPARgamma2 gene polymorphism were performed.

RESULTS

In the whole studied group the Pro115Gln polymorphism of the PPARgamma2 gene was not found. The frequency of the Pro12Ala polymorphism was estimated at 26.47% in the controls and at 23.15% in the PCOS patients. Women from the control and PCOS groups with BMI > or = 30 had statistically higher occurrence of the Ala allele than women with BMI <30 (38.80% versus 12.50% and 38.23% versus 18.75%).

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency of the Pro12Ala polymorphism observed in the sample of women from the Lower Silesian population was significantly higher than in the majority of European populations.

Fibrinogen and D-dimers levels in patients with hyperthyroidism before and after radioiodine therapy

BACKGROUND

Various abnormalities of haemostasis have been described in patients with hyperthyroidism. The results of different studies point to the underlying thyroid disease, especially severity of hyperthyroidism and autoimmune processes, as important factors contributing to coagulation-fibrinolytic balance. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between hyperthyroidism (concerning severity of thyroid dysfunction and anti-thyroid perioxidase antibodies level) and plasma fibrinogen and D-dimers levels before and after radioiodine therapy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 35 non-smoking, postmenopausal women, aged 51-69, with subclinical or overt hyperthyroidism treated with radioiodine. Analysis comprised serum TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone), fT4 (free thyroxine), fT3 (free triiodothyronine), TPO antibodies (anti-thyroid perioxidase) levels, and plasma D-dimers and fibrinogen levels before and 12-16 weeks and 24-28 weeks after radioiodine therapy.

RESULTS

Elevated fibrinogen (3.82 g/L ± 0.75, reference range 2-4.5 g/L) and D-dimers (674.26 ng/mL ± 652.71, reference range 70-490 ng/mL) levels were observed in subjects with hyperthyroidism. They decreased after radioiodine therapy. A negative correlation between plasma fibrinogen and D-dimers levels and anti-thyroid perioxidase antibodies level was found. TSH, fT4 and fT3 correlated with D-dimers level in overt hyperthyroidism.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperthyroidism is associated with a tendency toward hypercoagulation and hyperfibrinolysis. The changes observed in plasma fibrinogen and D-dimers levels are reversible. Fibrinogen level decreases within reference range and D-dimers level decreases almost to the upper reference range. They depend on severity and autoimmunity of the underlying thyroid disease and may be modified by restoring euthyroidism.

[Management of thyroid diseases during pregnancy]

The management of thyroid disorders during pregnancy is one of the most frequently disputed problems in modern endocrinology. It is widely known that thyroid dysfunction may result in subfertility, and, if inadequately treated during pregnancy, may cause obstetrical complications and influence fetal development. The 2007 Endocrine Society Practice Guideline endorsed with the participation of the Latino America Thyroid Association, the American Thyroid Association, the Asia and Oceania Thyroid Association and the European Thyroid Association, greatly contributed towards uniformity of the management of thyroid disorders during pregnancy and postpartum. Despite the tremendous progress in knowledge on the mutual influence of pregnancy and thyroid in health and disease, there are still important areas of uncertainty. There have been at least a few important studies published in the last 3 years, which influenced the thyroidal care of the expecting mother. It should also be remembered that guidelines may not always be universally applied in all populations with different ethnical, socio-economical, nutritional (including iodine intake) background or exposed to different iodine prophylaxis models. The Task Force for development of guidelines for thyroid dysfunction management in pregnant women was established in 2008. The expert group has recognized the following tasks: development of the coherent model of the management of thyroid dysfunction in pregnant women, identification of the group of women at risk of thyroid dysfunction, who may require endocrine care in the preconception period, during pregnancy and postpartum - that is in other words, the development of Polish recommendations for targeted thyroid disorder case finding during pregnancy, and the development of Polish trimester-specific reference values of thyroid hormones. Comprehensive Polish guidelines developed by the Task Force are to systematize the management of the thyroid disorders in pregnant women in Poland.

Forearm SXA densitometry in 1,122 Polish women--a cohort study

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to estimate forearm bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) using singleenergy X-ray absorptiometry (SXA) in a group of Polish women that included both pre- and post-menopausal subjects.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was carried out in a cohort of 1,122 otherwise healthy women with no history of previous fractures.

RESULTS

We showed a gradual decline of BMD and BMC with age, and the presence of suspected correlations of densitometric results with age and selected anthropometric parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study confirmed the utility of densitometric screening using forearm SXA measurements. These measurements discriminated clearly between pre- and post-menopausal subjects. Densitometric results correlated negatively with age and age at menopause, but positively with anthropometric indices related to body and skeletal size. Age was the greatest factor in terms of impact on bone loss.

[Recommendations of prophylaxis of vitamin D deficiency in Poland (2009)]

Adequate vitamin D intake and its status as well outdoor physical activity are important not only for normal bone development and Ca-P metabolism, but for optimal function of many organs and tissues throughout the body. Due to documented changes in dietary habits and physical activity level, both observed in growing children and adults, the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency is continuously increasing. National Consultants and experts in this field established the Polish recommendations for prophylactic vitamin D supplementation in infants, toddlers, children and adolescents as well as in adults, including pregnant and lactating women based on current literature review. Taking into consideration pleyotropic vitamin D action and safety aspects serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) level of 20-60 ng/ml (50-750 nmol/l) in children and 30-80 ng/ml (75-200 nmol/I) in adults is considered as optimal. Sunlight exposure inducing vitamin D production in the skin is main endogen source of vitamin D in the body but sunscreens may reduce skin synthesis by 90%. In Poland, skin synthesis is effective only from April to September so other sources of vitamin D such as diet and supplements play an important role. All newborns should be supplemented with 400 IU/d of vitamin D beginning from the first few days of life and continue during infancy. In formula fed infants vitamin D intake from the diet should be taken into account. In preterm infants higher total vitamin D intake (400-800 IU/day) is recommended till 40 weeks post conception. Total vitamin D intake in children and adolescents required from all sources (diet and/or supplements) should be 400 IU/d between October and March and throughout the whole year in case of inadequate vitamin D skin synthesis during the summer months. In overweight/obese children supplementation with higher dosage of vitamin D up to 800-1000 IU/d should be considered. Adults require 800-1000 IU/d of vitamin D. In pregnant and lactating women such supplementation is recommended in case of inadequate intake from diet and/or skin synthesis supplementation. Monitoring of serum 25-OHD level to define optimal dosage should be considered.

[Prophylaxis of vitamin D deficiency--Polish recommendation 2009]

Adequate vitamin D intake and its status are important not only for bone health and Ca-P metabolism, but for optimal function of many organs and tissues throughout the body. Due to documented changes in dietary habits and physical activity level, both observed in growing children and adults, the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency is continuously increasing. Basing on current literature review and opinions of National Consultants and experts in the field, polish recommendations for prophylactic vitamin D supplementation in infants, toddlers, children and adolescents as well as in adults, including pregnant and lactating women have been established.

[Prophylaxis of vitamin D deficiency--Polish recommendations 2009]

Appropriate state procurement system for vitamin D is important not only for the proper functioning of the skeletal, maintaining calcium and phosphorus homeostasis, but also for a number of other organs and tissues in our body. In connection with the change in lifestyle including dietary habits change, the widespread use of UV filters and less outdoor activity, observed an increase in the percentage of vitamin D deficiency, both in population and developmental age and adults. Based on the results of recent scientific research team of experts provides recommendations for preventive Polish supply of vitamin D in infants, children, adolescents and adults, including pregnant women and nursing mothers.

Waist circumference and serum adiponectin levels in obese and non-obese postmenopausal women

OBJECTIVES

A proposed missing link between obesity and metabolic disturbances is adiponectin, an adipocyte-derived peptide. Adiponectin is a potent antidiabetic hormone and seems to have a beneficial influence on lipid profile as well. The need to explain the complex physiological roles of this hormone prompted the authors to study the relationship between adiponectin level and obesity - related abnormalities in a homogenous population of postmenopausal women.

STUDY DESIGN

The study involved 272 postmenopausal women aged 50-60 years. Invitations to participate in the study were sent to 4000 randomly chosen women from the Wroclaw city population fulfilling the age criterion. A telephone questionnaire was administered to the group of 1731 women who responded to the invitation and then subjects for the study were selected. Main outcome measures anthropometrical measurements of body fat tissue content and fat tissue distribution assessment were carried out in all the women. Moreover, serum concentrations of adiponectin, glucose, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides and insulin were measured.

RESULTS

The most frequent (76%) phenotype among the investigated women was obesity (BMI >25) with abnormal (=80cm) waist circumference (OAW), Obesity with normal (<80cm) waist (ONW) and normal weight with abnormal waist (NOAW) were observed in only 5% and 14% of the women, respectively. Non-obese women with normal waist (NONW) were noted in only 5% of the subjects. Serum adiponectin levels in both groups of non-obese women (NOAW and NONW) were significantly higher (p<0.05) than in the women with obesity or overweight and abnormal waist circumference (OAW group). Adiponectin levels in the women with obesity or overweight and normal waist (ONW) were also higher than in the OAW group; however, this difference was not statistically significant (p=0.05). In all the women, serum adiponectin level correlated negatively with BMI (r=-0.34, p=0.0001), total fat (r=-0.28, p=0.0001), android fat deposit (r=-0.23, p=0.0001), waist circumference (r=-0.33, p=0.0001), glucose (r=-0.27, p=0.0001), triglycerides (r=-0.34, p=0.0001), and FIRI (r=-0.34, p=0.0001) and positively with the gynoid/android fat deposit ratio (r=0.28, p=0.0001) and HDL cholesterol (r=0.36, p=0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

These results confirm that adiponectin could be a marker of the development of menopausal insulin resistance syndrome.

[Pheochromocytoma in 8-year observation at a single endocrinological center in Wroclaw]

INTRODUCTION

Pheochromocytoma is rare tumor with a highly variable clinical presentation. This report provides clinical picture, efficiency of diagnostics and treatment of pheochromocytoma in 8-years in the endocrinological center in Wroclaw.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The records of 37 patients with pheochromocytoma were identified, who were treated in 2000-2007 in the Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Isotope Treatment in Wroclaw. There were 23 women (age 23-75 year) and 14 men (age 17-74). We studied frequency of clinical signs, usefulness of diagnostic methods and efficacy of treatment.

RESULTS

The duration of the clinical history ranged from 2 months to 16 years. The most frequent symptoms were: hypertension paroxysmal and constant, palpitations, headache, sweating and anxiety. The most sensitive diagnostic method was increased concentration of urinary metanephrine in 24-hour urine. Computed tomography was the most widely used method for tumor localization. Adrenal pheochromocytoma was detecting by CT in all patients, predominated in right adrenal, in 1 case in urinary bladder. Surgery caused remission of hypertension in 59%, improvement in 26.8%, and no changes in 13.9% of patients. Malignancy was reported in 2 cases, 1 woman died after surgery. MEN 2A occur in 21.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

The diagnosis of pheochromocytma is usually made after long duration of the disease. The study confirms that clinical presentation of pheochromocytoma is variable and nonspecific, this finding makes the diagnosis very difficult. The most typical symptom is paroxysmal hypertension, which is present only in 40%, other symptoms are nonspecific. The measurement of 24-hour urinary metanephrines was the best indicator. CT was almost always successful in localizing the tumor. Patients with pheochromocytoma should be consider for other endocrine diseases especially medullary carcinoma, primary hyperparathyroidism and other component of MEN 2A.

Lack of relationship between 174G_C promoter polymorphism of the IL-6 gene and indices of metabolic syndrome in non-obese healthy subjects

INTRODUCTION

Homozygosity for interleukin-6 (IL-6) 174G_C promoter polymorphism has recently been associated with indices of metabolic syndrome; however, this problem has not been investigated in non-obese subjects. The aim of this study was to explore the relation between abdominal fat distribution and some inflammatory risk factors of atheromatosis and IL-6 174G_C gene polymorphism in non-obese healthy subjects.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Relationships were investigated between anthropometric variables, i.e. weight, height, BMI, waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), body fat distribution (DXA), serum CRP and IL-6, insulin sensitivity/resistance indices, and IL-6 174G_C gene polymorphism, in healthy non-obese Polish subjects: 232 women (age 31.4 +/- 5.5 years) and 199 men (age 30.3 +/- 6.0 years).

RESULTS

The genetic study revealed that the CC genotype was observed in 15.56% of subjects, the CG genotype in 52.74%, and the GG genotype in 31.7%. IL-6 and CRP concentration did not differ among the genotypes. There were also no differences regarding BMI and WHR. The only differences among genotypes, observed only in men, were those concerning total fat (CC had higher fat content than CG and GG); the difference being statistically significant between CC and GG (p < 0.05), and gynoidal fat deposit (CC had higher gynoidal fat deposit than CG and GG); the difference being statistically significant between CC and GG (p < 0.025) and between CC and CG (p < 0.05). Biochemical parameters and insulin sensitivity did not differ among the genotypes.

CONCLUSIONS

These data show that IL-6 174G_C polymorphism is not associated with features describing metabolic syndrome in nonobese healthy subjects.