Thr54 allele carriers of the Ala54Thr variant of FABP2 gene have associations with metabolic syndrome and hypertriglyceridemia in urban South Indians

Genetic polymorphism of fatty acid binding protein-2 in hyperlipidemic Asian Indians in North India

BACKGROUND

Fatty acid binding protein-2 (FABP-2) is involved in the metabolism of lipids in the intestine. FABP-2 Ala54Thr polymorphism involves a transition of G to A at codon 54 of FABP-2, resulting in an amino acid substitution Ala54 to Thr54 and is associated with elevated fasting triglycerides in some hyperlipidemic populations. In current genome builds and gene databases the variant of the Ala54Thr FABP-2 (rs 1 799 883) is annotated as c.163A>G (p. Thr55Ala).

AIM AND OBJECTIVE

The status of this polymorphism in hyperlipidemic Asian Indians from North India has not been investigated. This study was aimed to evaluate the distribution of the polymorphic variants of the Ala54Thr FABP-2 and their association with lipids in hyperlipidemic subjects.

METHODS

Ala54Thr FABP-2 polymorphism in both hyperlipidemic (n = 210) and normolipidemic (n = 342) subjects was assessed by PCR-RFLP.

RESULTS

Ala54Thr genotypes and alleles distribution did not differ between the hyperlipidemic and normolipidemic groups. The heterozygous genotype FABP-2 Ala/Thr was significantly associated with higher levels of triglycerides and very low-density lipoproteins as compared to the homozygous variant (Thr/Thr) genotype and the wild type homozygous (Ala/Ala) genotype.

CONCLUSIONS

The heterozygous genotype FABP-2 Ala54Thr is a risk factor for the development of hypertriglyceridemia and increased levels of VLDL-c in Asian Indians from North India.

Metabolic Syndrome and Chronic Disease Risk in South Asian Immigrants: A Review of Prevalence, Factors, and Interventions

South Asians (SAs) are among the fastest-growing ethnic groups in the U.S. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a condition that is characterized by multiple health factors that increase the risk for chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes. MetS prevalence among SA immigrants ranges from 27-47% in multiple cross-sectional studies using different diagnostic criteria, which is generally higher compared to other populations in the receiving country. Both genetic and environmental factors are attributed to this increased prevalence. Limited intervention studies have shown effective management of MetS conditions within the SA population. This review reports MetS prevalence in SAs residing in non-native countries, identifies contributing factors, and discusses ways to develop effective community-based strategies for health promotion targeting MetS among SA immigrants. There is a need for more consistently evaluated longitudinal studies to facilitate the development of directed public health policy and education to address chronic diseases in the SA immigrant community.

Effects of Bread with Nigella Sativa on Blood Glucose, Blood Pressure and Anthropometric Indices in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome

Nigella sativa (N. sativa) is one of important herbal foods in traditional medicine and many studies have conducted to show the effects of this plant on several diseases. The goal of this study was the evaluation of effects of bread with N. Sativa on clinical parameters such as blood glucose, blood pressure (BP) and anthropometry indices in subjects with metabolic syndrome (MetS). A study as double-blind, cross-over, randomized clinical trial was performed in 51 MetS patients in Chalus, north region of Iran. After dividing of patients randomly in 2 groups, in phase 1, intervention group (A, n = 27) used daily a bread with N. sativa and control group (B, n = 24) used the same bread but without N. sativa for 2 months. After considering of 15 day wash out period, phase 2 was began with changing of position of 2 groups. Measuring of parameters including fasting blood glucose (FBG), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC) was done before and after of 2 phases. After evaluation of treatment, sequence and time effects of intervention on parameters, it is shown that consumption of this bread has not significant treatment effect (as main effect) on FBG, SBP, DBP, WC, weight, and BMI (p > 0.05). Sequence effect on FBG, weight, WC, and BMI was significant (p < 0.05), but was not on BP. Time effect was only significant for DBP. Consumption of bread with N. sativa in MetS patients has not significant effect on FBG, BP, weight, WC, and BMI.

Trial Registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials Identifier: IRCT2015041821815N1.

Effects of polymorphism in FABP2 Ala54Thr on serum lipids and glycemic control in low glycemic index diets are associated with gender among Han Chinese with type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Low glycemic index (GI) diets may have beneficial effects on glycemic control and serum lipid levels in patients with type 2 diabetes, but whether its effect is affected by polymorphisms of genes associated with lipid metabolism remains unclear. This study investigated whether the effects of a low-GI diet on serum lipids and glycemic control in patients with diabetes are associated with polymorphisms of FABP2 Ala54Thr (rs1799883).

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted involving 165 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who participated in two completed trials. Parameters reflecting the glycemic control, inflammatory factors, and fasting plasma lipids before and after intervention were measured, and the polymorphism of rs1799883 for each participant was genotyped using a Mas-sARRAY. Differences between the genotypes of rs1799883 before or after the intervention were compared, and changes in the lipid profiles, glycemic control, inflammatory profiles, and dietary intake from baseline were analyzed using an analysis of covariance (generalized linear model).

RESULTS

When the data were analyzed as a whole, after 4-5 weeks of similar low-GI diet intervention, we found that the decrease of triglycerides (TG) in the homozygous Ala54 carriers was more significant than that in the Thr54 allele carriers ([-0.58±1.24] vs [-0.14±1.08], P=0.015) with the adjustment for potential confounding factors; furthermore, compared with the Thr54 carriers, there was a significant trend in the decrease of total cholesterol (TC) in the homozygous Ala54 carriers (P=0.057). Subgroup analysis revealed that in women the homozygous Ala54 carriers exhibited a significant decrease of serum TG, TC, fasting blood glucose, and glycated albumin in women, but this was not noted in men.

CONCLUSION

The effect of FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism on response to blood lipids and gly-cemic control in low-GI diets is associated with gender among Han Chinese patients with T2DM.

Factors Influencing Nutritional Behavior Among Patients With Metabolic Syndrome

Introduction. Lifestyle modification and adherence to healthy diet is crucial in the prevention and management of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Aim: The aim of the current study was to identify factors affecting healthy nutritional behaviors among patients with MetS. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 322 adults with a mean age of 40.55 ± 5.97 years were included. The diagnosis of MetS was based on the criteria suggested by the International Diabetes Federation. Nutritional attitudes, subjective norms, intention, and nutritional behaviors were assessed through a questionnaire designed by researchers. Results: The finding indicated that nutritional attitude and gender of participants were predicting factors of behavioral intention. Furthermore, nutritional attitude, behavioral intention, gender, and level of education could predict nutritional behavior in patients. However, subjective norm was a weak predictor of behavioral intention and nutritional behavior. Conclusions: The findings suggest that attitude and intention, but not subjective norms, along with some sociodemographic variables were able to predict the nutritional behavior of MetS patients that could be a basis for designing educational interventions for health promotion among them.

Prospective Study of Nut Consumption and Incidence of Metabolic Syndrome: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study

This study aimed to assess the association of various types of nut per se, and total nut consumption with the incidence of metabolic syndrome (MetS). A 6.2 ± 0.7-year population-based prospective study was conducted among 1265 adults, aged 19–74 years, participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study. A 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire was used to collect information on nut consumption. MetS was defined according to the Joint Interim Statement guidelines and 276 new cases of MetS were identified. Median ± interquartile range of nut consumption was 2.08 (0.88–5.68) servings/week. After adjusting for family history of diabetes, age, gender, smoking, physical activity, fasting serum glucose at baseline, serum high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) at baseline, energy intake, fiber, macronutrients, cholesterol intake, fruit, vegetables, dairy products and body mass index (BMI), a statistically significant decrease was observed in MetS in the third (≥5 servings/week) tertile of nuts (odds ratio: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.44–0.91, p trend: 0.03) compared with the lowest (≤1 serving/week). Walnut consumption showed a significant, inverse association with MetS risk; associations for other nut varieties were not significant. For each additional serving/week of walnuts consumed, incidence of MetS decreased by 3% (ORs: 0.97 CI: 0.93–0.99), after adjusting for confounding factors. Total nut consumption, especially walnuts, reduces the risk of MetS.

Anthropometric and lipid profile of individuals with severe obesity carrying the fatty acid-binding protein-2 Thr54 allele

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anthropometric and lipid profiles of individuals being considered for bariatric surgery, taking into account the presence of the Thr54 allele of the fatty acid-binding protein-2 (FABP-2) gene (rs1799883), and dietary intake.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional study, 120 participants being evaluated for bariatric surgery were asked to keep 24-h dietary records (R24 h) for 3 d, and to collect a 24-h urine sample for measurement of urea (as an assessment of the adequacy of food records) during day 3 of the diet record; a fasting blood sample for laboratory and genetic evaluations was collected.

RESULTS

When considering the whole sample, no significant differences were found; however, those who complied with the R24 h (n = 43) had more years of schooling and higher saturated fat intake, but lower weight and body mass index (BMI). When analyzing only the completers, the Thr54 allele carriers showed higher body weight (P = 0.02), BMI (P = 0.03), hip circumference (P = 0.02), basal metabolic rate (P = 0.02), and homeostatic model assessment-β (P = 0.04) compared with those who were homozygous for Ala54.

CONCLUSION

When the participants complied with the R24 h, Thr54 carriers were shown to have higher anthropometric parameters and higher homeostatic model assessment-β values than those with the wild genotype, but the lipid profile resulted similar in both carriers and noncarriers.

Review: Genetics of the cardiometabolic syndrome: new insights and therapeutic implications

Although the definition of the phenotype is imprecise, cardiometabolic syndrome (CMS) includes a constellation of complex diseases such as type 2 diabetes, dislipidemias, central obesity and hypertension, proinflammatory and prothrombotic states, ovarian polycystosis and fatty liver. The genetics of each disease is complex in itself and varies in spectrum from monogenic and syndromic models of inheritance, usually rare, to the most common polygenic and multifactorial forms. In addition, human studies using the candidate-gene approach indicate that common genetic variants of several genes are associated with the development of CMS. Genome-wide scans have also provided several chromosomal regions associated with some of the components of CMS. In addition, through comparative genomics animal models can generate a map for candidate loci in humans and a promising approach is offered by bioinformatic tools for gene prioritization. Lastly, the involvement of genes whose products are already the targets for approved drugs, such as SLC6A4, PPARα and PPARγ , in the development of CMS suggests new avenues for CMS pharmacological treatment.

Interaction between FTO gene variants and lifestyle factors on metabolic traits in an Asian Indian population

Background

Lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity have been shown to modify the association between fat mass and obesity–associated (FTO) gene variants and metabolic traits in several populations; however, there are no gene-lifestyle interaction studies, to date, among Asian Indians living in India. In this study, we examined whether dietary factors and physical activity modified the association between two FTO single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs8050136 and rs11076023) (SNPs) and obesity traits and type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

The study included 734 unrelated T2D and 884 normal glucose-tolerant (NGT) participants randomly selected from the urban component of the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study (CURES). Dietary intakes were assessed using a validated interviewer administered semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Physical activity was based upon the self-report. Interaction analyses were performed by including the interaction terms in the linear/logistic regression model.

Results

There was a significant interaction between SNP rs8050136 and carbohydrate intake (% energy) (P_interaction = 0.04), where the ‘A’ allele carriers had 2.46 times increased risk of obesity than those with ‘CC’ genotype (P = 3.0 × 10⁻⁵) among individuals in the highest tertile of carbohydrate intake (% energy, 71 %). A significant interaction was also observed between SNP rs11076023 and dietary fibre intake (P_interaction = 0.0008), where individuals with AA genotype who are in the 3^rd tertile of dietary fibre intake had 1.62 cm lower waist circumference than those with ‘T’ allele carriers (P = 0.02). Furthermore, among those who were physically inactive, the ‘A’ allele carriers of the SNP rs8050136 had 1.89 times increased risk of obesity than those with ‘CC’ genotype (P = 4.0 × 10⁻⁵).

Conclusions

This is the first study to provide evidence for a gene-diet and gene-physical activity interaction on obesity and T2D in an Asian Indian population. Our findings suggest that the association between FTO SNPs and obesity might be influenced by carbohydrate and dietary fibre intake and physical inactivity. Further understanding of how FTO gene influences obesity and T2D through dietary and exercise interventions is warranted to advance the development of behavioral intervention and personalised lifestyle strategies, which could reduce the risk of metabolic diseases in this Asian Indian population.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12986-016-0098-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Effects of Bread with Nigella Sativa on Lipid Profiles, Apolipoproteins and Inflammatory Factor in Metabolic Syndrome Patients

Nigella sativa (N.sativa) has been used in traditional medicine and many studies have been performed in different communities in order to reveal the effects of it on medical disorders and chronic diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of bread with N. Sativa on lipid profiles, apolipoproteins, and inflammatory factors in metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients. A randomized, double-blind, cross-over and clinical trial was conducted in 51 MetS patients of both sexes with age group of 20-65 years old in Chaloos, north of Iran. Patients were randomly divided in two groups. In phase 1, intervention group (A, n = 27) received daily a bread with N. sativa and wheat bran and control group (B, n = 24) received the same bread without N. sativa for 2 months. After 2 weeks of wash out period, phase 2 was started with switch the intervention between two groups. Measuring of lipid profiles, apolipoproteins and inflammatory factor was performed for all patients before and after two phases. In this study, treatment, sequence and time effects of intervention were evaluated and revealed that consumption of bread with N. sativa has no significant treatment and time effects on triglyceride (TG), cholesterol (CHOL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), high density lipoprotein (HDL), apolipoprotein (APO)-A, APO-B and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (p > 0.05). Sequence effect was significant on CHOL, LDL, APO-A, and APO-B (p < 0.05) but was not significant on other parameters (p > 0.05). Consumption of bread with N. sativa has no a significant effect on lipid profiles, apolipoproteins and inflammatory factor in MetS patients.

Diabetes and associated complications in the South Asian population

The rising prevalence of diabetes in South Asians has significant health and economic implications. South Asians are predisposed to the development of diabetes due to biologic causes which are exacerbated by lifestyle and environmental factors. Furthermore, they experience significant morbidity and mortality from complications of diabetes, most notably coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. Therefore, understanding the pathophysiology and genetics of diabetes risk factors and its associated complications in South Asians is paramount to curbing the diabetes epidemic. With this understanding, the appropriate screening, preventative and therapeutic strategies can be implemented and further developed. In this review, we discuss in detail the biologic and lifestyle factors that predispose South Asians to diabetes and review the epidemiology and pathophysiology of microvascular and macrovascular complications of diabetes in South Asians. We also review the ongoing and completed diabetes prevention and management studies in South Asians.

Association of marital status and marital transition with metabolic syndrome: tehran lipid and glucose study

BACKGROUND

Most existing reports indicate that body weight gradually increases following marital status and thereby enhances health status and decreases mortality; however, the association between marital status and the metabolic syndrome (MetS) has not been thoroughly investigated in a longitudinal study.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential effects of marital status and marital transition on MetS during a 9.6-year follow-up in Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

For this study, 5221 participants (2060 males and 3161 females), aged 15 to 90 years at baseline, were followed for a median of 9.6 years. Marital status was categorized as consistent marital status and marital transition. We measured MetS risk z score and its components and calculated their changes. Then the effects of marital status and marital transition on MetS risk z score and its components were assessed using multivariable linear regression.

RESULTS

In comparison to participants who were married, no significant changes in MetS risk z score was found in single participants. Employed females in the transition to married group had significant increase in MetS risk z score than single employed females. No significant changes in MetS risk z score were observed between widowed/divorced subjects and compared to consistently married subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Marital status may affect MetS risk z score differently in both genders.

Polymorphism Ala54Thr of fatty acid-binding protein 2 gene is not associated with stroke risk in Han population of Hunan China

Background

It is still unclear which genetic factors have a role in stroke. Studies have found that Ala54Thr of Fatty Acid-Binding Protein 2 (FABP2) was associated with stroke risk. This study aimed to determine whether polymorphism Ala54Thr of FABP2 is associated with stroke risk in the Hunan Han population of China.

Material/Methods

A total of 206 cerebral infarction (CI) patients, 185 cerebral hemorrhage (CH) patients, and 172 controls were enrolled in this study. Ala54Thr genotyping was done by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP).

Results

No significant difference was observed in genotypic distribution of FABP2 Ala54Thr between the stroke group (CI subgroup, CH subgroup included) and control group. In the stroke group, plasma triglycerides (TG) levels of subjects who carried Ala/Thr, Thr/Thr were significantly higher than those carrying Ala/Ala. In the control group, blood lipids were not significantly different among 3 genotypes of Ala54Thr. There was no significant difference in blood pressure and fasting blood sugar between the stroke group and controls.

Conclusions

Our study showed that Ala54Thr of FABP2 may be not associated with stroke risk but may be associated with plasma TG level of stroke patients from a Hunan Han population of China.

Polymorphism of FABP2 and PPARG2 genes in risk prediction of cataract among North Indian population

BACKGROUND

Cataract is the leading cause of bilateral blindness in India. It has been reported that cataract is responsible for 50-80% of the bilaterally blind in the country. Cataract formation is a natural part of the ageing process. At present, adequate data are not available regarding the FABP2 and PPARG2 gene polymorphisms and their susceptibility with cataract cases in the North Indian population. Thus, the present study was carried out to investigate the association of FABP2 and PPARG2 gene polymorphisms with cataract cases and controls.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study includes 130 cataract cases and 118 controls. FABP2 and PPARG2 gene polymorphisms in cases and controls were evaluated by PCR-RFLP.

RESULTS

Frequencies of Ala54Ala, Ala54Thr and Thr54Thr genotypes in FABP2 gene in cataract cases and controls were 50.76%, 39.23%, 10% and 25.42%, 61.86%, 12.71% respectively. The PPARG2 gene CC, CG, GG genotype frequencies were 11.53%, 87.69% and 0.76% in cases and 21.18%, 39.83% and 38.98% in healthy controls respectively. Significant differences were observed in the frequencies of FABP2 Ala54Ala, Ala54Thr genotype (p < 0.05) and PPARG2 CC, CG, GG genotype (p < 0.05) between cases and controls.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study suggest that FABP2 and PPARG2 gene polymorphisms can be an informative marker for early identification of population at risk of cataract. The potential role of FABP2 and PPARG2 gene polymorphisms as a marker of susceptibility to cataract needs further studies in a larger number of patients.

Genetic contributions to Type 2 diabetes: recent insights

Few Type 2 diabetes loci are considered confirmed and replicated across multiple populations. Some genes that have become accepted as contributors to diabetes risk include: calpain 10, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma, ATP-sensitive inwardly rectifying potassium channel subunit Kir6.2, hepatocyte nuclear factor 4alpha and hepatic transcription factor 1. While numerous reports of new diabetes loci enter the literature on a regular basis, this review focuses on selected novel associations reported within the last 12 months. In particular, we highlight recent reports of associations between Type 2 diabetes and the transcription factor 7-like 2 gene, associations with micro-opioid receptor and supressor of cytokine signaling 2 genes, and expression and functional analyses of adipokines vaspin and retinol binding protein 4. These new results provide insights into possible mechanisms influencing disease susceptibility and thus new diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities for Type 2 diabetes.

Association of genetic polymorphism of PPARγ-2, ACE, MTHFR, FABP-2 and FTO genes in risk prediction of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a non-autoimmune, complex, heterogeneous and polygenic metabolic disease condition characterized by persistent elevated blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia). India as said to be the diabetic capital of the world is likely to experience the largest increase in T2DM and a greater number of diabetic individuals in the world by the year 2030. Identification of specific genetic variations in a particular ethnic group has a critical role in understanding the risk of developing T2DM in a much efficient way in future. These genetic variations include numerous types of polymorphisms among which single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) is the most frequent. SNPs are basically located within the regulatory elements of several gene sequences. There are scores of genes interacting with various environmental factors affecting various pathways and sometimes even the whole signalling network that cause diseases like T2DM. This review discusses the biomarkers for early risk prediction of T2DM. Such predictions could be used in order to understand the pathogenesis of T2DM and to better diagnostics, treatment, and eventually prevention.

Association of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and fatty acid binding protein 2 (FABP2) genes polymorphism with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Northern India

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is growing in an epidemic manner across the world with an expected doubling of the incidence to millions of affected individuals in the last decades. At present, adequate data are not available regarding the ACE and FABP2 polymorphisms and their susceptibility with T2DM cases in the North Indian population. Thus we conceived the need for further study of ACE (I/D) and FABP2 (Ala54Thr) genes polymorphism and its susceptibility to T2DM in the North Indian population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, a total of 300 subjects (including 190 T2DM cases and 110 controls) participated. ACE and FABP2 gene polymorphisms in the cases and controls were evaluated by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism.

RESULTS

The frequencies of ACE I/I, I/D and D/D genotypes in T2DM cases and controls were 28.73%, 55.17%, 16.09% and 13.63%, 57.95%, 28.40%, respectively. The frequencies of FABP2 Ala54Ala, Ala54Thr and Thr54Thr in T2DM cases were 18.39%, 66.66%, 14.94% and 22.72%, 61.36%, 15.90% in controls, respectively. ACE I/I genotype was significantly more frequent in cases as compared to controls (p = 0.003, χ(2) = 9.13).

CONCLUSION

It appears that the ACE I/I genotype frequency was significantly higher in the T2DM cases as compared to the controls.

Higher cardiorespiratory fitness attenuates arterial stiffening associated with the Ala54Thr polymorphism in FABP2

Fatty acid binding protein 2 (FABP2) Ala54Thr polymorphism is a candidate gene associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease. Habitual exercise brings higher cardiorespiratory fitness and results in the improvement of cardiovascular disease risk. However, the effect of cardiorespiratory fitness level and FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism on the risk of cardiovascular diseases remains unclear. In the present study, a cross-sectional investigation of 837 Japanese men and women was performed to clarify the effects of cardiorespiratory fitness on the relationship between risk of cardiovascular disease and FABP2 Ala54Thr gene polymorphism. The study subjects were divided into high-cardiorespiratory fitness (High-Fit) and low-cardiorespiratory fitness (Low-Fit) groups based on the median value of peak oxygen uptake in each sex and decade. The FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism did not significantly affect carotid β-stiffness or blood pressure. In the Low-Fit group, carotid β-stiffness, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure were higher for individuals with the Ala/Ala genotype compared with those with the Ala/Thr or Thr/Thr genotype, whereas no differences were observed in the High-Fit group. Additionally, serum triglyceride and plasma glucose levels were lower and serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were higher in the High-Fit group compared with the Low-Fit group; the FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism did not significantly affect these parameters. These results suggest that the higher cardiorespiratory fitness may attenuate the changes in central arterial stiffness and blood pressure that are associated with the FABP2 genotype.

Common variants of the liver fatty acid binding protein gene influence the risk of type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance in Spanish population

Summary

The main objective was to evaluate the association between SNPs and haplotypes of the FABP1-4 genes and type 2 diabetes, as well as its interaction with fat intake, in one general Spanish population. The association was replicated in a second population in which HOMA index was also evaluated.

Methods

1217 unrelated individuals were selected from a population-based study [Hortega study: 605 women; mean age 54 y; 7.8% with type 2 diabetes]. The replication population included 805 subjects from Segovia, a neighboring region of Spain (446 females; mean age 52 y; 10.3% with type 2 diabetes). DM2 mellitus was defined in a similar way in both studies. Fifteen SNPs previously associated with metabolic traits or with potential influence in the gene expression within the FABP1-4 genes were genotyped with SNPlex and tested. Age, sex and BMI were used as covariates in the logistic regression model.

Results

One polymorphism (rs2197076) and two haplotypes of the FABP-1 showed a strong association with the risk of DM2 in the original population. This association was further confirmed in the second population as well as in the pooled sample. None of the other analyzed variants in FABP2, FABP3 and FABP4 genes were associated. There was not a formal interaction between rs2197076 and fat intake. A significant association between the rs2197076 and the haplotypes of the FABP1 and HOMA-IR was also present in the replication population.

Conclusions

The study supports the role of common variants of the FABP-1 gene in the development of type 2 diabetes in Caucasians.

Inverse association between fruit, legume, and cereal fiber and the risk of metabolic syndrome: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study

AIMS

To evaluate the association between total dietary fiber and its types and sources with the risk of MetS.

METHODS

This population-based cross-sectional study was conducted on a representative sample of 2457 adults (1327 male and 1130 female), aged 19-84 years. Dietary intake was assessed using a validated semiquantitative food-frequency questionnaire. Anthropometrics, blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose and lipids were measured according to standard protocols. The MetS was defined according to definition by Adult Treatment Panel III.

RESULTS

Multivariate-adjusted odds ratio of MetS between highest and lowest quartiles was 0.53 (95% CI: 0.39-0.74; P for trend <0.05) for total dietary fiber, 0.60 (0.43-0.84; P for trend <0.05) for soluble fiber, and 0.51 (0.35-0.72; P for trend <0.05) for insoluble fiber. Among sources of dietary fiber, fruit fiber (OR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.37-0.72), cereal fiber (0.74; 0.57-0.97), and legume fiber (0.73; 0.53-0.99) were inversely associated with the risk of MetS, after adjustment for confounding factors. Intake of vegetable fiber and nut fiber were unrelated to the risk of MetS.

CONCLUSIONS

Total dietary fiber, soluble- and insoluble fiber, fruit fiber, cereal fiber and legume fiber were associated with a protective effect for the presence of MetS among this Tehranian population.

Genetic variants and the metabolic syndrome: a systematic review

Several candidate gene studies on the metabolic syndrome (MetS) have been conducted. However, for most single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) no systematic review on their association with MetS exists. A systematic electronic literature search was conducted until the 2nd of June 2010, using HuGE Navigator. English language articles were selected. Only genes of which at least one SNP-MetS association was studied in an accumulative total population ≥ 4000 subjects were included. Meta-analyses were conducted on SNPs with three or more studies available in a generally healthy population. In total 88 studies on 25 genes were reviewed. Additionally, for nine SNPs in seven genes (GNB3, PPARG, TCF7L2, APOA5, APOC3, APOE, CETP) a meta-analysis was conducted. The minor allele of rs9939609 (FTO), rs7903146 (TCF7L2), C56G (APOA5), T1131C (APOA5), C482T (APOC3), C455T (APOC3) and 174G>C (IL6) were more prevalent in subjects with MetS, whereas the minor allele of Taq-1B (CETP) was less prevalent in subjects with the MetS. After having systematically reviewed the most studied SNP-MetS associations, we found evidence for an association with the MetS for eight SNPs, mostly located in genes involved in lipid metabolism.

Meta-analysis on the effect of the Ala54Thr polymorphism of the fatty acid-binding protein 2 gene on body mass index

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The results from studies published on the association of fatty acid-binding protein 2 (FABP2) Ala54Thr polymorphism with body mass index (BMI) are conflicting. In this meta-analysis, we investigated the association of the FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism with BMI.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We searched for articles published prior to June 2009 using PubMed, HugeNavigator and China National Knowledge Internet. The languages were limited to English and Chinese. Data on BMI were collected. A pooled weighted mean difference (WMD), together with 95% confidence interval (CI), was used for this meta-analysis. A total of 27 studies with 10 974 subjects were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled effect for dominant, recessive and co-dominant model comparisons did not suggest the significant association between the FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism and BMI in overall populations: WMD(fixed effects)=-0.00, 95% CI: (-0.16 to 0.15), p=0.99, WMD(random effects)=-0.00, 95% CI: (-0.16 to 0.15), p=0.99, p(Q)=0.77, I(2)=0%, WMD(fixed effects)=-0.12, 95% CI: (-0.39 to 0.14), p=0.35, WMD(random effects)=-0.12, 95% CI: (-0.39 to 0.14), p=0.35, p(Q)=0.47, I(2)=0% and WMD(fixed effects)=0.07, 95% CI: (-0.11 to 0.25), p=0.45, WMD(random effects)=0.07, 95% CI: (-0.11 to 0.25), p=0.45, p(Q)=0.90, I(2)=0%, respectively. The results from the comparisons of ThrThr versus AlaAla and AlaThr versus AlaAla showed no evidence that the FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism is significantly associated with BMI in overall populations (p>0.05). All the results from the subgroup analyses for these genetic models comparisons were not significant (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis does not support the association between the FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism and BMI.

Fatty acid-binding protein-2 genotype influences lipid and lipoprotein response to eicosapentaenoic acid supplementation in hypertriglyceridemic subjects

OBJECTIVE

The blood lipid-lowering effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on hypertriglyceridemic subjects with different fatty acid-binding protein-2 (FABP2) genotypes have not, to our knowledge, been previously studied.

METHODS

Twenty-three FABP2 Ala54 and 23 Thr54 carriers with hypertriglyceridemia (triacylglycerol level >200mg/dL) were enrolled in this study. Participants took 2g of pure EPA daily for 8 wk. Fasting blood lipid and lipoprotein profiles were determined and changes from baseline were measured.

RESULTS

Blood lipids and lipoprotein responses of the FABP2 genotypes differed after EPA supplementation. Changes from baseline for triacylglycerol (19.2% decrease for Ala54 and 60.5% for Thr54, P<0.001), very low-density lipoprotein (20.0% decrease for Ala54 and 60.5% for Thr54, P<0.001), apolipoprotein CIII (22.8% decrease for Ala54 and 36.4% for Thr54, P<0.01), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (17.6% increase for Ala54 and 30.7% for Thr54, P<0.01) differed significantly between the two carrier groups. However, changes in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B were not significant. EPA supplementation increased plasma EPA in Ala54 and Thr54 carriers. Although EPA supplementation increased the level of plasma EPA in both carrier groups, this effect was more pronounced in the Thr54 carriers.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, EPA consumption has more favorable effects on blood lipids of hypertriglyceridemics with Thr54 genotype rather than those with Ala54. The level of plasma EPA increases after EPA supplementation. Because the FABP2 Thr54 polymorphism appears to be prevalent in hypertriglyceridemic subjects, increasing EPA intake in these subjects could be an effective strategy for reducing blood triacylglycerol concentration.

Dietary profile of urban adult population in South India in the context of chronic disease epidemiology (CURES-68)

OBJECTIVE

Few dietary surveys have been done with reference to chronic diseases, such as diabetes, in India, which is considered to be the diabetes capital of the world. We report on the dietary intake of urban adults living in Chennai, South India.

DESIGN

A population-based cross-sectional study.

SETTING

A representative population of urban Chennai in southern India.

SUBJECTS

The study population comprised 2042 individuals aged≥20 years selected from the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiological Study (CURES). Dietary intake was measured using a validated and previously published interviewer-administered semi-quantitative meal-based FFQ.

RESULTS

The mean daily energy intake was 10,393 (sd 2347) kJ (male: 10953 (sd 2364) kJ v. female: 9832 (sd 233) kJ). Carbohydrates were the major source of energy (64%), followed by fat (24%) and protein (12%). Refined cereals contributed to the bulk of the energy (45.8%), followed by visible fats and oils (12.4%) and pulses and legumes (7.8%). However, energy supply from sugar and sweetened beverages was within the recommended levels. Intake of micronutrient-rich foods, such as fruit and vegetable consumption (265 g/d), and fish and seafoods (20 g/d), was far below the FAO/WHO recommendation. Dairy and meat products intake was within the national recommended intake.

CONCLUSIONS

The diet of this urban South Indian population consists mainly of refined cereals with low intake of fish, fruit and vegetables, and all of these could possibly contribute to the risk of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes in this population.

Obesity-related non-communicable diseases: South Asians vs White Caucasians

South Asians are at higher risk than White Caucasians for the development of obesity and obesity-related non-communicable diseases (OR-NCDs), including insulin resistance, the metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and coronary heart disease (CHD). Rapid nutrition and lifestyle transitions have contributed to acceleration of OR-NCDs in South Asians. Differences in determinants and associated factors for OR-NCDs between South Asians and White Caucasians include body phenotype (high body fat, high truncal, subcutaneous and intra-abdominal fat, and low muscle mass), biochemical parameters (hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, hyperleptinemia, low levels of adiponectin and high levels of C-reactive protein), procoagulant state and endothelial dysfunction. Higher prevalence, earlier onset and increased complications of T2DM and CHD are often seen at lower levels of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) in South Asians than White Caucasians. In view of these data, lower cut-offs for obesity and abdominal obesity have been advocated for Asian Indians (BMI; overweight >23 to 24.9 kg m(-2) and obesity ≥ 25 kg m(-2); and WC; men ≥ 90 cm and women ≥ 80 cm, respectively). Imbalanced nutrition, physical inactivity, perinatal adverse events and genetic differences are also important contributory factors. Other differences between South Asians and White Caucasians include lower disease awareness and health-seeking behavior, delayed diagnosis due to atypical presentation and language barriers, and religious and sociocultural factors. All these factors result in poorer prevention, less aggressive therapy, poorer response to medical and surgical interventions, and higher morbidity and mortality in the former. Finally, differences in response to pharmacological agents may exist between South Asians and White Caucasians, although these have been inadequately studied. In view of these data, prevention and management strategies should be more aggressive for South Asians for more positive health outcomes. Finally, lower cut-offs of obesity and abdominal obesity for South Asians are expected to help physicians in better and more effective prevention of OR-NCDs.

Association of the fatty acid-binding protein 2 gene Ala54Thr polymorphism with insulin resistance and blood glucose: a meta-analysis in 13451 subjects

BACKGROUND

The results from the published studies on the association of fatty acid-binding protein 2 (FABP2) Ala54Thr polymorphism with insulin resistance and blood glucose are conflicting. In this meta-analysis, we investigated the association of the FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism with insulin resistance and blood glucose.

METHODS

We collected data on fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin, 2-h blood glucose (2-h BG) and 2-h insulin (2-h insulin), and homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance index. A dominant model was used for this meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Thirty-one studies with 13 451 subjects were included in this meta-analysis. The carriers of Thr54 allele have significantly higher homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance index and marginally higher fasting insulin than the non-carriers: standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.07, 95% confidence interval (CI, 0.02, 0.12), p = 0.007, p(heterogeneity) = 0.19 and SMD = 0.08, 95% CI (-0.01, 0.17), p = 0.07, p(heterogeneity) < 0.00001, respectively. A borderline significant association between the FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism and an increased 2-h BG was also detected under the dominant model: SMD = 0.10, 95% CI (0.00, 0.20), p = 0.05, p(heterogeneity) = 0.09. In addition, a borderline association between this polymorphism and an increased fasting blood glucose in populations of other ethnic origins was detected under the dominant model: SMD = 0.11, 95% CI (-0.00, 0.23), p = 0.06, p(heterogeneity) = 0.03.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis suggests that the Thr54 allele of the FABP2 Ala54Thr is weakly associated with a higher degree of insulin resistance, higher level of fasting insulin and higher level of 2-h BG. Our meta-analysis also suggests a weak association between this polymorphism and an increased fasting blood glucose in populations of other ethnic origins under the dominant model.

Heritability of quantitative traits associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus in large multiplex families from South India

India is a major contributor to the global public health burden of diabetes. We have undertaken a family study of large multiplex families from Chennai, South India, and report on the familial aggregation of quantitative traits associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus in these pedigrees. Five hundred twenty-four individuals older than 19 years from 26 large multiplex pedigrees were ascertained. Detailed questionnaires and phenotype data were obtained on all participating individuals including fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, lipid profiles, height, weight, and other anthropometric and clinical measures. Heritability estimates were calculated for all quantitative traits at the univariate level, and bivariate analyses were done to determine the correlation in genetic and environmental control across these quantitative traits. Heritability estimates ranged from 0.21 to 0.72. The heritability estimates for traits most directly related to type 2 diabetes mellitus were 0.24 +/- 0.08 for fasting blood glucose and 0.41 +/- 0.09 for fasting insulin. In addition, there was evidence for common genetic control for many pairs of these traits. These bivariate analyses suggested common genes for fasting insulin and central obesity measures (body mass index, waist, and hip), with complete genetic correlation between fasting insulin and waist. Quantitative traits associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus have heritabilities suggestive of some familial or genetic effect. The evidence for pleiotropic control of insulin and central obesity-related traits supports the presence of an insulin resistance syndrome in South Asians with a tendency for central obesity.

Refined grain consumption and the metabolic syndrome in urban Asian Indians (Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study 57)

The objective of the study was to evaluate the association of refined grains consumption with insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome in an urban south Indian population. The study population comprised 2042 individuals aged > or = 20 years randomly selected from the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study (CURES), a cross-sectional study on a representative population of Chennai, southern India. The metabolic syndrome was defined according to modified Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines; and insulin resistance, by the homeostasis assessment model. The mean refined grain intake was 333 g/d (46.9% of total calories) in this population. After adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, metabolic equivalent, total energy intake, and other dietary factors, higher refined grain intake was significantly associated with higher waist circumference (8% higher for the highest vs the lowest quartile, P for trend < .0001), systolic blood pressure (2.9%, P for trend < .0001), diastolic blood pressure (1.7%, P for trend = .03), fasting blood glucose (7.9%, P for trend = .007), serum triglyceride (36.5%, P for trend < .0001), low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (-10.1%, P for trend < .0001), and insulin resistance (13.6%, P < .001). Compared with participants in the bottom quartile, participants who were in the highest quartile of refined grain intake were significantly more likely to have the metabolic syndrome (odds ratio, 7.83; 95% confidence interval, 4.72-12.99). Higher intake of refined grains was associated with insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome in this population of Asian Indians who habitually consume high-carbohydrate diets.

Association between the FABP2 Ala54Thr, PPARα Leu162/Val, and PPARα intron7 polymorphisms and blood lipids ApoB and ApoCIII in hypertriglyceridemic subjects in Tehran

BACKGROUND

The alanine to threonine substitution at codon 54 in the FABP2 gene and PPARα Val162 allele have been associated with hypertriglyceridemia.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to determine the prevalence of the Ala54Thr polymorphism of fatty acid binding protein (FABP) 2 gene and the Leu162/Val in exon 5 and G/C in intron7 polymorphism of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) gene in hypertriglyceridemic patients and their associations with blood lipid concentrations.

METHODS

A total of 170 hypertriglyceridemic subjects were enrolled and genotyped for Ala54Thr, Leu162Val, and intron 7 polymorphism by the use of a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Fasting blood triglyceride, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein (Apo)B, and ApoCIII also were determined.

RESULTS

We found frequency of 81.2% for the Thr54 polymorphism among hypertriglyceridemic subjects. Positive associations were observed between this polymorphism and greater blood triglyceride, very low-density lipoprotein, and ApoCIII levels and lower blood high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration both in men and women. However, no association was found between the Thr54 polymorphism and TC, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, ApoB, and body mass index. Frequency of the Leu162Val polymorphism was 21.8%. The Leu162Val polymorphism was not associated with lipid and lipoprotein concentrations in hypertriglyceridemic subjects (both in men and women). The frequency of intron7 polymorphism was 55.3% in subjects studied and, except for body mass index and TC, no association was found between the intron7 allele and blood lipids ApoB, and ApoCIII.

CONCLUSION

Frequency of the Thr54 polymorphism is high in hypertriglyceridemic subjects, and the presence of this allele may increase some blood lipid and lipoprotein concentrations. In addition, the frequency of intron7 polymorphism may be greater than Leu162Val in hypertriglyceridemic patients.

Loss of intestinal fatty acid binding protein increases the susceptibility of male mice to high fat diet-induced fatty liver

Mice lacking I-FABP (encoded by the Fabp2 gene) exhibit a gender dimorphic response to a high fat/cholesterol diet challenge characterized by hepatomegaly in male I-FABP-deficient mice. In this study, we determined if this gender-specific modification of liver mass in mice lacking I-FABP is attributable to the high fat content of the diet alone and whether hepatic Fabp1 gene (encodes L-FABP) expression contributes to this difference. Wild-type and Fabp2-/- mice of both genders were fed a diet enriched with either polyunsaturated or saturated fatty acids (PUFA or SFA, respectively) in the absence of cholesterol. Male Fabp2-/- mice, but not female Fabp2-/- mice, exhibited increased liver mass and hepatic triacylglycerol (TG) deposition as compared to corresponding wild-type mice. In wild-type mice that were fed the standard chow diet, there was no difference in the concentration of hepatic L-FABP protein between males and females although the loss of I-FABP did cause a slight reduction of hepatic L-FABP abundance in both genders. The hepatic L-FABP mRNA abundance in both male and female wild-type and Fabp2-/- mice was higher in the PUFA-fed group than in the SFA-fed group, and was correlated with L-FABP protein abundance. No correlation between hepatic L-FABP protein abundance and hepatic TG concentration was found. The results obtained demonstrate that loss of I-FABP renders male mice sensitive to high fat diet-induced fatty liver, and this effect is independent of hepatic L-FABP.

Risk factors for acute ischaemic stroke in young adults in South India

BACKGROUND

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in developing countries, afflicting individuals at a young age. The contribution of established vascular risk factors to ischaemic stroke in young adults has not been evaluated systematically in Indians.

METHODS

We conducted a case control study in 214 South Indian patients with first acute ischaemic stroke that occurred between the ages of 15 and 45 years, 99 age and sex matched hospital controls and 96 community controls. We compared the prevalence of the following risk factors: smoking, elevated blood pressure, high fasting blood glucose and abnormal lipids.

RESULTS

Compared with community controls, stroke patients had a higher prevalence of smoking (multivariable adjusted odds ratio (OR) 7.77, 95% CI 1.93 to 31.27), higher systolic blood pressure (OR per SD increment of 1.88, 95% CI 1.01 to 3.49) and fasting blood glucose (OR per SD increment of 4.55, 95% CI 1.63 to 12.67), but lower high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (OR per SD increment of 0.17, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.30). Compared with hospital controls, stroke patients had a higher prevalence of smoking (OR 3.95, 95% CI 1.61 to 9.71) and lower HDL cholesterol (OR per SD increment 0.27, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.44). The presence of > or = 3 metabolic syndrome components was associated strongly with stroke (OR 4.76, 95% CI 1.93 to 11.76; OR 2.09, 95% CI 1.06 to 4.13) compared with community and hospital controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Key components of the metabolic syndrome and smoking are associated with ischaemic stroke in young South Indian adults. Our observations underscore the importance of targeting adolescents and young adults for screening and prevention to reduce the burden of ischaemic stroke in young adults.

Polymorphism of the FABP2 gene: a population frequency analysis and an association study with cardiovascular risk markers in Argentina

BACKGROUND

The FABP2 gene encodes for the intestinal FABP (IFABP) protein, which is expressed only in intestinal enterocytes. A polymorphism at codon 54 in exon 2 of the FABP2 gene exchanges an Alanine (Ala), in the small helical region of the protein, for Threonine (Thr). Given the potential physiological role of the Ala54Thr FABP2 polymorphism, we assess in this study the local population frequency and analyze possible associations with five selected markers, i.e. glycemia, total cholesterol, body mass index (BMI), hypertension, and high Cardiovascular Risk Index (CVR index).

METHODS

We studied 86 men and 116 women. DNA was extracted from a blood drop for genotype analysis. Allele frequencies were calculated by direct counting. Hardy Weinberg Equilibrium was evaluated using a Chi-square goodness of fit test. For the polymorphism association analysis, five markers were selected, i.e. blood pressure, Framingham Risk Index, total cholesterol, BMI, and glycemia. For each marker, the Odds Ratio (OR) was calculated by an online statistic tool.

RESULTS

Our results reveal a similar population polymorphism frequency as in previous European studies, with q = 0.277 (95% confidence limits 0.234-0.323). No significant association was found with any of the tested markers in the context of our Argentine nutritional and cultural habits. We did, however, observe a tendency for increased Cholesterol and high BMI in Thr54 carriers.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to look at the population frequency of the Thr54 allele in Argentina. The obtained result does not differ from previously reported frequencies in European populations. Moreover, we found no association between the Thr54 allele and any of the five selected markers. The observed tendency to increased total cholesterol and elevated BMI in Thr54 carriers, even though not significant for p < 0.1 could be worth of further investigation to establish whether the Thr54 variant should be taken into consideration in cardiovascular prevention strategies.