Genome scan reveals several loci associated with torus palatinus.

OBJECTIVE

Torus Palatinus (TP) is a common trait with an unclear aetiology. Although prior studies suggest a hereditary component, the genetic factors that influence TP risk remain unknown. The purpose of this study is to identify genetic variants associated with TP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We assessed the TP status of 829 individuals from various ancestral backgrounds using 3D palate scans. We then carried out a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify common variants associated with TP. We also performed gene-based tests across the exome to investigate the role of low-frequency coding variants.

RESULTS

Our GWAS did not identify any genome-wide significant signals but identified suggestive associations including hits on chromosomes 2, 5 and 17 with p-values less than 5 × 10. Candidate genes at these suggestive loci have been implicated in normal-range craniofacial features, syndromes with facial and oral malformations, and bone density. We did not find evidence that low-frequency coding variants influence TP risk. In addition, we failed to replicate associations identified in prior genetic studies of TP.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that multiple genes likely influence the development of TP. Independent replication will be required to confirm our suggestive associations.