OBJECTIVE

To explore the relationship between dopamine β-hydroxylase gene polymorphisms and Parkinson's disease (PD) in Uygurs and Hans populations of Xinjiang.

METHODS

The polymorphisms of DBH gene were determined by polymerase chain-reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) in 239 PD patients (including 100 Uygurs and 141 Hans) and 232 health controls (including 103 Uygurs and 129 Hans).

RESULTS

The genotypic or allelic distribution of DBH gene had significant differences between PD and control groups in both Uygur and Han populations (P < 0.05). The genotypic or allelic frequencies were significantly different between Han PD and control groups (P < 0.05). The genotypic or allelic frequencies in those aged 65 years or above were significantly different from that in others (P < 0.05). There was a significant increase of PD in A2 allele carriers (OR = 1.965, P < 0.05). And the frequencies of A2 allele in female PD patients were higher than those in female controls (P < 0.05) and A2 allele carriers had a significant increase of PD (OR = 1.696, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Different between Uygurs and Hans of Xinjiang, DBH5 TaqI polymorphisms may be associated with PD in Hans. A2 allele carriers are often found in females and those aged 65 years or above.