[Analysis of the FABP2 gene Ala54Thr polymorphism in non-obese and obese Chinese].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the fatty acid-binding protein 2 gene (FABP2) Ala54Thr polymorphism and its relationship to obesity in Chinese population.

METHODS

Three hundred and ninety three subjects (272 non-obese and 121 obese individuals) from a population of Chinese Han nationality in Chengdu area were studied using PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphisms (PCR-RFLPs). Serum lipids were measured by enzymatic kits and apolipoproteins A I, A II, B100, C II, CIII and E were measured by the RID kits.

RESULTS

The frequencies of Ala and Thr allele at Ala54Thr site in obese and non-obese groups were 71.5%, 28.5%, and 71.1%, 28.9%, respectively. No significant difference in the allele frequencies between the two groups was observed (P > 0.05). In the obese group, subjects with Thr allele (AlaThr +ThrThr genotype carriers)had higher serum triglyceride (TG) concentrations than those with genotype AlaAla (P < 0.05). Similar results were observed in obese male subgroup, when male and female subgroups were further separated. In addition, obese males with AlaThr had lower HDL-C levels than those with genotype AlaAla. No significant difference of lipid and apolipoprotein levels was observed in obese females or non-obese group.

CONCLUSION

The Ala54Thr polymorphism in the FABP2 gene was not associated with obesity in Chinese Han population of Chengdu area. However, it may be associated with serum TG, HDL-C levels, with some gender-specific effect, in this population.