Association of C-509T and T869C polymorphisms of transforming growth factor-beta1 gene with chronic allograft nephropathy and graft survival in Korean renal transplant recipients

PURPOSE: Transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) has been associated with the promotion of renal allograft interstitial fibrosis and thereby chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN). The literature on TGF-beta1 polymorphisms and their importance in graft survival and CAN is not conclusive. METHODS: TGF-beta1 gene polymorphisms (C-509T and T869C) were examined in a group of 207 Korean renal transplant recipients using real-time polymerase chain reaction assays. The CAN group (n = 18) was defined by a typical biopsy confirming CAN or chronic calcineurin inhibitor nephrotoxicity. The rest of the patients were classified into the No CAN group (n = 189). RESULTS: No significant differences were observed in the genotype distributions of both C-509T and T869 polymorphisms between the two groups. Allele frequencies and age-, sex-, HLA mismatch-adjusted odds ratio of each genotype as assessed by logistic regression analysis were also not significantly different between the two groups. Linkage disequilibrium coefficients between polymorphisms indicated that investigated polymorphisms of TGF-beta1 (D' = 0.98) were in tight linkage. However, there were no significant differences in the frequencies of the reconstructed haplotypes between the two groups. Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank tests did not indicate any statistically significant effects of TGF-beta1 gene polymorphisms on graft survival. CONCLUSION: TGF-beta1 gene polymorphisms (C-509T, T869C) are not significantly associated with an increased risk of development of CAN and graft survival in Korean renal transplant recipients.     

Megsin 2093T-2180C haplotype at the 3' untranslated region is associated with poor renal survival in Korean IgA nephropathy patients

AIMS: Megsin is a mesangial cell-predominant gene which belongs to the serpin superfamily. The expression of megsin was upregulated and coincided with mesangial proliferation and extracellular matrix expansion in IgA nephropathy (IgAN). In the present study, we evaluated the influence of the C2093T and C2180T polymorphism within the 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) of megsin gene and its haplotypes on the development and progression of Korean IgAN patients. METHODS: Korean IgAN patients (n = 260) with a minimal follow-up of 4 years were recruited. Healthy subjects with normal renal function, normal urinalysis and normotension (n = 315) were included as controls. The polymorphisms were determined by the 5' nuclease allelic discrimination assay, and the haplotypes were constructed using the Phase program. RESULTS: The C2093T and C2180T genotype and allele frequencies were not different significantly between IgAN patients and controls. In C2093T polymorphism, patients with CC genotype showed a better renal survival than those with CT or TT genotypes by Kaplan-Meier analysis (p = 0.027). The megsin C2093T polymorphism remained an independent risk factor for progression (Cox regression model, HR for TT genotype: 3.52, 95% CI 1.69 - 7.34; HR for CT genotype: 2.15, 95% CI 1.30 - 3.57). In C2180T polymorphism, patients with TT genotype showed a better outcome than those with CC or CT genotypes (p = 0.025). The C2180T polymorphism was also an independent risk factor for progression (HR for CC genotype: 4.05, 95% CI 1.93 - 8.51; HR for CT genotype: 2.35, 95% CI 1.40 - 3.94). The two alleles showed linkage disequilibrium in phased haplotype. The patients with 2093T-2180C haplotype showed a poor renal survival compared to those with 2093C-2180T haplotype (p = 0.028). The haplotype remained an independent risk factor for progression (HR for 2093T-2180C haplotype: 2.01, 95% CI 1.44 - 2.81). CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that the 2093T-2180C haplotype at the 3'UTR of megsin gene is associated with rapid disease progression in Korean IgAN patients. This is the reverse of the results from the Chinese IgAN patients. Further studies are strongly needed to elucidate the reasons of disparity.     

Association of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) T869C (Leu 10Pro) gene polymorphisms with type 2 diabetic nephropathy in Chinese

INTRODUCTION: Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) is known to play a pivotal role in the regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. Since diabetic nephropathy (DMN) is characterized by basement membrane thickening and mesangial expansion, control of ECM deposition is believed to be important in the pathogenesis of the disease. Recently, TGF-beta T869C (Leu 10Pro) gene polymorphism has been identified which may be associated with circulating TGF-beta levels. METHODS: In order to examine the relationship between TGF-beta gene polymorphism with DMN in Chinese, we carried out a case-control study, which recruited 123 Chinese type 2 diabetic patients with an average duration of diabetes for 12 years. A total of 58 patients who developed DMN (micro- or macroalbuminuria, with or without renal impairment) were compared with 65 diabetic patients without DMN despite similar duration of disease (normoalbuminuric and creatinine <120 micromol/L). TGF-beta T869C (Leu 10Pro) gene polymorphism was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RESULTS: Both groups of patients had similar baseline characteristics, including blood pressure, diabetic control, and duration of diabetes. Distribution of TGF-beta T869C (Leu 10Pro) genotype among the whole group is confined to Hardy Weinberg equilibrium. The DMN+ group has higher frequency of TGF-beta CC/CT genotypes than the DMN- group [CC, CT, TT = (DMN+) 46, 45, 9 (%) vs. (DMN-) 37, 37, 26 (%), P < 0.05]. C allele frequency is also higher in the DMN+ group than DMN- group (69% vs. 55%, P < 0.05). The adjusted odds ratio for TGF-beta CC/CT vs. TT genotype to develop DMN is 3.8 (3.2 to 4.4). Multivariate logistic regression analysis [hypertension, gender, age, duration of diabetes, hemoglobin (HbA1c), usage of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, and cholesterol level] showed that TGF-beta genotype (P = 0.03) is an independent predictor for type 2 DMN. Among patients with DMN, those with TGF-beta CC/CT genotypes also had worse renal function and increased risk for macroalbuminuria. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that TGF-beta T869C (Leu 10Pro) gene polymorphism is associated with DMN in Chinese.     

Association between transforming growth factor beta1 gene polymorphisms and IgA nephropathy

BACKGROUND: Transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-beta1) plays an important role in the modulation of cellular growth and differentiation in a wide variety of cell types and in the production/degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM). We investigated whether G-800A, C-509T and Leu10-->Pro polymorphisms in the TGF-beta1 gene could be involved in the development and progression of immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN). METHODS: DNA samples were obtained from 101 patients with biopsy proven IgA mesangial nephropathy and 118 healthy controls. The genotypes of G-800A, C-509T and Leu10-->Pro polymorphisms in the TGF-beta1 gene were determined by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) with MaeIII, Eco 81I and Pst I, respectively. RESULTS: No significant differences were observed in the genotype distribution of the three TGF-beta1 polymorphisms between patients and controls. The TAC haplotype (T=Leu10, A-800 and C-509 alleles, respectively) was significantly associated with IgAN (p=0.043; odds ratio (OR) =2.334, 95 % confidence interval (95%CI) 1.01-5.41). CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that the haplotype reconstruction of TGF-beta1 gene polymorphisms could be more informative than the investigation of single nucleotide polymorphisms for defining the associated risk of developing IgAN. Further research is needed on larger cohorts to confirm TGF-beta1 involvement and test other TGF-beta1 variants with possible additive or synergistic effects.     

Association of transforming growth factor beta1 genotype with therapeutic response to active vitamin D for postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) is an important regulator of bone metabolism, its effects being intertwined with those of estrogen and vitamin D. A T-->C polymorphism in exon 1 of the TGF-beta1 gene, which results in the substitution of proline for leucine, is associated with bone mineral density (BMD). However, it is not known whether this polymorphism affects the response to treatment with active vitamin D or to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in individuals with osteoporosis. Changes in BMD at the lumbar spine (L2-L4 BMD) were compared among TGF-beta1 genotypes in 363 postmenopausal Japanese women who were divided into three groups: an untreated, control group (n = 130), an active vitamin D treatment group (n = 117), and an HRT group (n = 116). TGF-beta1 genotype was determined with an allele-specific polymerase chain reaction assay. In the control group, the rate of bone loss decreased according to the rank order of genotypes TT (homozygous for the T allele) > TC (heterozygous) > CC (homozygous for the C allele), with a significant difference detected between the CC and TT genotypes. The positive response of L2-L4 BMD to HRT increased according to the rank order of genotypes TT < TC < CC, although the differences among genotypes were not statistically significant. Individuals with the CC genotype responded to active vitamin D treatment with an annual increase in L2-L4 BMD of 1.6%, whereas those with the TT or TC genotypes similarly treated lost bone to a similar extent as did untreated subjects of the corresponding genotype. These results suggest that TGF-beta1 genotype is associated with both the rate of bone loss and the response to active vitamin D treatment.     

G protein beta3 subunit C825T polymorphism in primary IgA nephropathy

BACKGROUND: The T allele of the G protein beta3 subunit (GNB3) C825T polymorphism has been associated with increased signal transduction, increased activity of the kidney Na+/H+ exchanger, and also with late-onset essential hypertension. Hypertension is a strong independent risk factor for progression in IgA nephropathy (IgAN). METHODS: We have studied this polymorphism in a regularly followed cohort of 299 biopsy-proven incident cases of IgAN, collected from 1989 to 1999 [208 males (70%)] and compared the genotypes and alleles distributions to 303 local Caucasian controls matched for the male predominance (214 males). The technique used was a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) with BseDI as restriction enzyme and specific primers, followed by gel electrophoresis. RESULTS: The TT, CT, and CC genotype frequencies were 13.7%, 45.8%, and 40.5% in IgAN, respectively, versus 7.6%, 47.2%, and 45.2% in controls, respectively (chi(2)= 6.16; P= 0.05). The excess of TT patients versus non-TT was significant in IgAN versus controls (chi(2)= 5.94; P= 0.015). The T allele frequency was 0.366 in IgAN versus 0.312 in controls (chi(2)= 3.97; P= 0.05). This data indicated that this polymorphism had a significant but mild influence on the occurrence/initiation of IgAN (RR = 1.81; 95% CI 1.07-3.07). In contrast, we could not demonstrate any significant and sustained difference in the clinical presentation and evolution of the homozygous TT patients compared to non-TT patients (CC + CT) despite a mean and median follow-up about 10 years. The progression to arterial hypertension or to chronic renal failure or to end-stage renal failure (ESRF) was not significantly different. In addition, multivariate Cox regression analysis excluded a significant independent role of C825T polymorphism on progression. CONCLUSION: The C825T GNB3 polymorphism had a mild influence on occurrence/initiation of IgAN, but played no significant role in the progression of the disease.     

肌球蛋白重链9基因单核苷酸多态性与内蒙古自治区汉族IgA肾病临床、病理及预后的关系

目的 探讨肌球蛋白重链(MYH)9基因单核苷酸多态性与内蒙古自治区汉族IgA肾病患者临床特征、病理及预后的关系.方法 以经肾组织活检确诊的IgA肾病患者148例为研究对象,对其中56例患者进行了1～97月的随访.取外周血提取DNA,采用PCR限制性片段长度多态性分析(RFLP)法检测MYH9基因Rs3752462、Rs4821480位点单核苷酸多态性.研究各位点基因型与IgA肾病患者临床特征的相关性.分析不同基因型与疾病进展和预后的关系.结果 (1)Rs3752462位点符合Hardy-Weinberg平衡,Rs4821480位点不符合Hardy-Weinberg平衡.(2)IgA肾病患者MYH9基因Rs3752462位点TT基因型患者的收缩压低于CC+CT基因型(P＜0.05).Rs4821480位点GG基因型与TT+GT基因型两组患者收缩压、舒张压、年龄差异有统计学意义(P＜0.05).Scr、肌酐清除率、血白蛋白、血红蛋白、镜下血尿、蛋白尿程度等临床指标及病理HASS分级、肾病理改变在Rs4821480位点、Rs3752462位点3种基因型组间差异无统计学意义.(3) Kaplan-Meier生存分析提示Rs3752462位点CC基因型、Rs4821480位点TT基因型患者肾活检到肾功能减退时间显著较短(P＜0.05).结论 MYH9基因Rs3752462位点C等位基因是引起IgA肾病患者高血压损害的独立危险因素.MYH9基因Rs4821480位点3种基因型多态性与患者预后相关.携带Rs3752462位点C等位基因、Rs4821480位点T等位基因可能影响患者的预后.     

Association between the clara cell secretory protein (CC16) G38A polymorphism and the progression of IgA nephropathy

AIMS: Clara cell secretory protein (CC16) is a protein with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Moreover, both CC16 gene knockout and antisense-transgenic mouse models developed glomerulonephritis resembling IgA nephropathy (IgAN). In the present study, we evaluated the influence of the G38A polymorphism in the CC16 gene exon 1 on the development and progression of IgAN. METHODS: Korean patients with biopsy-proven IgAN (n=267) with a minimal follow-up of 4 years (mean +/- SD 103.8 +/- 52.6 months) were recruited. Healthy normal subjects (n=315) were included as controls. The G38A polymorphism was determined using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. RESULTS: GG, GA and AA genotype frequencies were 36.3, 50.2 and 13.5% in IgAN patients, respectively, and 34.3, 50.2 and 15.5% in controls (chi2 = 0.596, p = 0.742). The G allele frequency was 0.614 in IgAN patients and 0.594 in controls (chi2 = 0.429, p = 0.512). Moreover, the GG genotype frequencies were 40.4% in patients showing stable disease course and 26.6% in those with progressive disease (chi2 = 4.029, p = 0.045). Patients with the GG genotype showed a better outcome by Kaplan-Meier analysis in terms of renal survival (p = 0.043). The CC16 polymorphism remained an independent risk factor for progression after multivariate analysis (Cox regression model, HR for CC16 AA genotype: 2.34, 95% CI 1.19-4.64, p = 0.014). CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that CC 16 gene G38A polymorphism is not associated with the development of IgAN, but that it is an important marker of progression in IgAN.     

Association of transforming growth factor-β1 polymorphisms with the risk of chronic kidney diseases

Abstract

The association of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) polymorphisms with the risk of chronic kidney diseases (CKD) remains elusive. We aimed to perform a meta-analysis to evaluate the relationship between TGF-β1 polymorphisms and the susceptibility to CKD. Association studies were searched according to a defined criteria using electronic databases. The strength of association between TGF-β1 polymorphisms and CKD risk was evaluated by odds ratio (OR) with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). Nine case–control studies were identified. T allele at the +869 T/C polymorphism was associated with a lower risk of CKD in Asians (p?=?0.003). TT genotype at the +869 T/C polymorphism was associated with a lower risk of CKD in overall populations and Asians (p?=?0.007 and <10^?4, respectively). CC genotype at the +869 T/C polymorphism was associated with the risk of CKD in Asians (p?=?0.002). T allele at the ?509 T/C polymorphism was associated with the risk of CKD in overall populations and Asians (p?=?0.044 and 0.050, respectively). TT genotype at the ?509 T/C polymorphism was associated with CKD risk in overall populations, Caucasians and Asians (p?<?10^?4, <10^?4, and <10^?4, respectively). No evidence of significant publication bias was noted. In conclusion, T allele at the +869 T/C polymorphism may be a protective factor against CKD risk in Asians. TT genotype at the +869 T/C polymorphism may be an indicator of lower risk of CKD in overall populations and Asians. CC genotype at the +869 T/C polymorphism may predict the susceptibility to CKD in Asians. T allele at the ?509 T/C polymorphism may be an indicator of CKD risk in overall populations and Asians. TT genotype at the ?509 T/C polymorphism was a risk factor for CKD onset in overall populations, Caucasians and Asians.     

Association of T869, C509T,G915C gene polymorphism of transforming growth factor-β1 with IgA nephropathy risk

This meta-analysis was conducted to assess the association of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) T869C, C509T, G915C gene polymorphism with the risk of IgA nephropathy (IgAN). The association literatures were identified from PubMed, Cochrane Library up to October 1, 2013, and eligible reports were recruited and synthesized. Five reports were recruited into this meta-analysis for the association of TGF-β1 T869C, C509T, G915C gene polymorphism with IgAN risk. In this meta-analysis, the association of TGF-β1 T869C, C509T, G915C gene polymorphism with IgAN risk was not found. In conclusion, TGF-β1 T869C, C509T, G915C gene polymorphism is not associated with the IgAN risk. However, more studies should be performed in the future to confirm this association.     

Association between decreased kidney function and endotoxin receptor CD14 C-159T polymorphism among Japanese health check-up examinees

BACKGROUND: A recently identified promoter polymorphism of the endotoxin receptor (CD14 C-159T) was shown to be associated with atherosclerotic diseases such as myocardial infarction. This study was conducted to determine whether this polymorphism is associated with decreased kidney function. METHODS: A total of 281 male and 522 female health check-up examinees, aged 39-88 years, were genotyped for CD14 C-159T. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study equation. Estimated GFR (eGFR) and the proportion of subjects with mildly decreased eGFR (eGFR under 90 mL/min/1.73 m(2)) were compared among the genotypes. RESULTS: Subjects carrying the T allele showed decreased age- and sex-adjusted eGFR compared with those with CC genotype (101+/-22 vs. 105+/-23 mL/min/1.73 m(2); mean+/-SD, p = 0.012). The proportion of subjects with mildly decreased eGFR was higher in T allele carriers (34.2% for TT+CT and 26.3% for CC genotype, p = 0.041), but not statistically significant when adjusted for age and sex (odds ratio [OR] 1.41, 95% CI 0.97-2.05, p = 0.076). In subjects under 65 years, T allele carriers had a significantly increased risk for mildly decreased eGFR (27.1% for TT+CT and 18.0% for CC; age- and sex-adjusted OR 1.82, 95% CI 1.06-3.12, p = 0.030). CONCLUSION: CD14-159T allele was associated with decreased eGFR compared with CC genotype, and with a higher prevalence of mildly decreased eGFR in younger subjects under 65.     

No association between a genetic variant of the p22(phox) component of NAD(P)H oxidase and the incidence and progression of IgA nephropathy.

BACKGROUND: The course of glomerulonephritis varies even within the same histological entity, which suggest that genetic factors determine the progression of inflammatory renal diseases. We studied a potential relationship between the C242T gene polymorphism of p22(phox), a subunit of the NAD(P)H oxidase, and frequency as well as progression of immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy. Patients with lupus nephritis were also investigated. The distribution of the C242T gene variation of p22(phox) has not been previously studied in patients with renal disease. METHODS: Patients with IgA nephropathy were from a homogenous ethnic group of patients living in Northern Germany (n=127). Patients with active lupus nephritis WHO classes III/IV (n=46) were also studied. All diagnoses were confirmed by renal biopsy. Healthy blood donors (n=151) exhibited a genotype distribution similar to previously reported values for Caucasians (CC, 41.2%; CT, 45%; TT, 13.8%). However, C242T genotype distribution was not significantly different (chi(2) test) in patients with IgA nephropathy (CC, 44.9%; CT, 48%; TT, 7.1%) or in active lupus nephritis (CC, 54.3%; CT, 34.7%; TT, 11%). Grouping of IgA nephropathy patients as those with mild renal impairment at the time of biopsy (serum creatinine <1.3 mg/dl) and those with more severe renal failure (serum creatinine >1.3 mg/dl) also failed to show a relationship with p22(phox) polymorphism. Log-rank analysis for up to 15 years in selected cases of IgA nephropathy did not show a significant difference in renal survival rate among the three genotypes. CONCLUSIONS: It appears that the C242T polymorphism is not associated with IgA nephropathy or active lupus nephritis and may not affect the progressive deterioration of renal function in patients with IgA nephropathy. However, whether the C242T polymorphism plays a role in other renal diseases remains to be studied.     

Polymorphism of angiotensin converting enzyme, angiotensinogen, and angiotensin II type 1 receptor genes and end-stage renal failure in IgA nephropathy: IGARAS--a study of 274 Men

The impact of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) gene polymorphism on the prognosis of IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is still debated. A longitudinal study of renal prognosis in patients with IgAN was conducted to search retrospectively for a genotype-phenotype association between RAS polymorphisms and end-stage renal failure (ESRF). A classification based on serum creatinine (S(cr)) and 24-h proteinuria (24-P) measured at the time of renal biopsy was used to estimate the risk of ESRF in IgAN: stage 1 (S(cr) 150 micromol/L and 24-P < 1 g or S(cr) < or = 150 micromol/L and 24-P > or = 1 g), stage 3 (S(cr) > 150 micromol/L and 24-P > or = 1 g). Deletion/insertion polymorphism (D/I) of the angiotensin I converting enzyme gene, M235T polymorphism (T/M) of the angiotensinogen gene and A1166C polymorphism (C/A) of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor gene were determined in 274 Caucasian men with biopsy-proven IgAN (n = 86, 112, and 76 in stages 1, 2, and 3, respectively). Mean global follow-up was 6 +/- 5 yr after renal biopsy. For stages 1, 2, and 3, ESRF developed in 7 (8. 1%), 39 (34.8%), and 49 (64.4%) cases (P: < 0.0001), 11.7 +/- 4, 5.4 +/- 4, and 2 +/- 2 yr, respectively, after renal biopsy (P: < 0.001). The distributions of the three genotypes into the three stages were similar. Different distributions were observed when patients were grouped by stage and genotype: ID+DD: 72% in stage 1 versus 84.6% in stages 2 + 3 (P: = 0.02; kappa = 0.14); MT+TT: 66.2% in stages 1 + 2 versus 78.9% in stage 3 (P: = 0.04; kappa = 0.09); and AA+AC: 89.9% in stages 1 + 2 versus 97.4% in stage 3 (P: = 0.04; kappa = -0.1). However, with the use of the Cox proportional hazard model, none of the three genotypes was found to have predictive value for renal survival. Compared with S(cr) and 24-P, genotypes DD, TT, and AA are unlikely to serve as clinically useful predictors of ESRF in IgAN.     

Role of TGF-beta1 in renal parenchymal scarring following childhood urinary tract infection.

BACKGROUND: Significant variability exists in the outcome of renal parenchymal inflammation following urinary tract infection (UTI) in childhood as some children experience renal parenchymal scarring (RPS) while others do not scar. Since TGF-beta1 is pro-fibrotic, we examined the role of this cytokine in RPS following UTI. METHODS: Five polymorphisms of the TGF-beta1 gene were investigated as well as the relationship between these polymorphisms and TGF-beta1 production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in vitro. DNA was isolated from 91 children shown to have developed RPS, 43 children with no evidence of scarring (NS) following UTI, and 171 healthy controls. Genotyping was performed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). PBMC were isolated from a subgroup of 24 patients from the total population. Cells were stimulated with LPS + PMA + PHA and then TGF-beta1 production was determined by ELISA. RESULTS: Comparing the NS with the RPS group, there was an increase in the -800 GA genotypes (18.6 vs. 7.4%, P=0.05; chi2) and the Leu10-->Pro CT (62.8 vs. 41.5%, P=0.021), and a decrease in the -509 TT genotype (0.0 vs. 8.5%, P=0.049). PBMC TGF-beta1 production was higher in those patients with the -800 GG compared to those with a GA genotype stimulation index [stimulated/unstimulated TGF-beta1 levels were 1.54 interquartile range (IQR) 1.42 to 1.75 vs. 1.19, IQR 0.94 to 1.51, P=0.031]. CONCLUSIONS: There is an association between the TGF-beta1 -800 GA, -509 TT and Leu10-->Pro CT genotypes and the presence or absence of RPS. The low TGF-beta1 producer status of the -800 GA genotype may protect against the development of a pro-fibrotic pathology.     

Genetic predisposition for adult lactose intolerance and relation to diet, bone density, and bone fractures.

Evidence that genetic disposition for adult lactose intolerance significantly affects calcium intake, bone density, and fractures in postmenopausal women is presented. PCR-based genotyping of lactase gene polymorphisms may complement diagnostic procedures to identify persons at risk for both lactose malabsorption and osteoporosis. INTRODUCTION: Lactase deficiency is a common autosomal recessive condition resulting in decreased intestinal lactose degradation. A -13910 T/C dimorphism (LCT) near the lactase phlorizin hydrolase gene, reported to be strongly associated with adult lactase nonpersistence, may have an impact on calcium supply, bone density, and osteoporotic fractures in the elderly. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We determined LCT genotypes TT, TC, and CC in 258 postmenopausal women using a polymerase chain reaction-based assay. Genotypes were related to milk intolerance, nutritional calcium intake, intestinal calcium absorption, bone mineral density (BMD), and nonvertebral fractures. RESULTS: Twenty-four percent of all women were found to have CC genotypes and genetic lactase deficiency. Age-adjusted BMD at the hip in CC genotypes and at the spine in CC and TC genotypes was reduced by -7% to -11% depending on the site measured (p = 0.04). LCT(T/C-13910) polymorphisms alone accounted for 2-4% of BMD in a multiple regression model. Bone fracture incidence was significantly associated with CC genotypes (p = 0.001). Milk calcium intake was significantly lower (-55%, p = 0.004) and aversion to milk consumption was significantly higher (+166%, p = 0.01) in women with the CC genotype, but there were no differences in overall dietary calcium intake or in intestinal calcium absorption test values. CONCLUSION: The LCT(T/C-13910) polymorphism is associated with subjective milk intolerance, reduced milk calcium intake, and reduced BMD at the hip and the lumbar spine and may predispose to bone fractures. Genetic testing for lactase deficiency may complement indirect methods in the detection of individuals at risk for both lactose malabsorption and osteoporosis.     

VEGF -460 genotype plays an important role in progression to chronic kidney disease stage 5.

BACKGROUND: Changes in renal vasculature, with vascular and interstitial fibrosis, are hallmarks of progression to chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 5. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a potent angiogenic and vascular permeability factor. Transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) plays a critical role in promoting extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and fibrosis. This study investigates whether genetic polymorphisms of VEGF or TGF-beta1 are associated with (i) progressive decline in renal function in patients with glomerular disorders (cohort 1) and (ii) predisposition to CKD stage 5 in a separate group of renal transplant recipients with various primary diseases (cohort 2). METHODS: Two patient groups were studied. Cohort 1 comprised 91 patients with biopsy-proven glomerular disease who were followed-up for 5 years before categorization as either non-progressors (with stable serum creatinine or < or =30% increase over 5 years, n = 39) or progressors (requiring dialysis, transplantation or whose serum creatinine increased by >30% over 5 years, n = 52). Cohort 2 comprised 107 patients with various primary renal diseases, who had reached CKD stage 5 and undergone renal transplantation at the time of study. All patients were genotyped for the VEGF polymorphisms at positions -460 (C/T) and +405 (G/C). Linkage disequilibrium (LD) was established using EHplus. SNPHAP was used to estimate haplotype frequency and to infer haplotypes to all patients. Cohort 1 patients were genotyped for the TGF-beta1 polymorphisms at positions -800, -509, codons 10 and 25. Genotyping was performed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). RESULTS: In cohort 1, there was a significant increase in frequency of the -460 VEGF CC genotype 30.8 vs 5.1%, P = 0.008; odds ratio (OR), CC vs TT 10.67, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.94-58.72 and C allele 56.7 vs 37.2%, P = 0.009; OR 2.22, 95% CI, 1.21-4.04, in the progressor patients when compared with the non-progressors. In cohort 2, there was a significant increase in the VEGF -460 CC genotype when compared with healthy volunteers 37 vs 20.8%, P = 0.011; OR CC vs TT 1.59, 95% CI, 0.72-3.51. The -460 and +405 polymorphisms were in LD P < 0.00007. There were significant differences in diplotype (haplotype pair) frequencies in cohort 1 and 2, P = 0.018, which confirmed the importance of the -460C allele. There were no associations between the VEGF +405 or TGF-beta1 polymorphisms and progressive renal disease. CONCLUSION: In this study, we have demonstrated an association between the VEGF -460 polymorphism and progression to CKD stage 5. The function of this polymorphism remains unclear although previous evidence suggests that promoter constructs containing this single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) have been associated with increased activity. Clearly there is a role for TGF-beta1 in chronic kidney disease. However, this study found no associations with four TGF-beta1 polymorphisms in this cohort.     

Association of Megsin 2093C/T, 2180C/T and C25663G gene polymorphism with the risk of IgA nephropathy

The association between megsin 2093C/T, 2180C/T and C25663G gene polymorphisms and IgA nephropathy (IgAN) risk remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the association between megsin 2093C/T, 2180C/T and C25663G gene polymorphisms and IgAN risk by performing a meta-analysis. Eligible studies were searched according to predefined criteria by using electronic databases. Six articles were identified for the analysis of the association between megsin 2093C/T, 2180C/T and C25663G gene polymorphisms and IgAN risk. 2093C/T C allele was associated with IgAN risk in overall populations and Asians (overall populations: p?=?0.014, Asians: p?=?0.037). 2093C/T CC/TT genotype was not associated with IgAN risk in overall populations, Caucasians and Asians. 2180C/T C allele was correlated with IgAN risk in Caucasians (p?=?0.024). 2180C/T CC/TT genotype was not associated with IgAN risk in overall populations, Caucasians and Asians. C25663G gene polymorphism was not associated with IgAN onset in Asians. In conclusion, megsin 2093C/T C allele may be genetic marker for IgAN susceptibility in overall populations and Asians. 2180C/T C allele may be risk factor for IgAN onset in Caucasians. However, more studies should be performed in the future.     

转化生长因子β1基因-509C/T多态性与原发性肾病综合征肾小管间质损伤的关系

目的 研究转化生长因子β1（TGF-β1）基因启动子－509C/T多态性与原发性肾病综合征（PNS）患者的易感性和肾小管间质损伤（TID）程度的相关性。 方法 采用聚合酶链反应-限制性片段长度多态性（PCR-RFLP）技术, 检测98例PNS患者和128名健康对照者TGF-β1基因启动子-509C/T位点的基因型, 并根据肾活检病理TID程度分级分组比较。采用双抗体夹心ELISA法,测定所有受试对象的血清TGF-β1水平。同时测尿蛋白量（24 h）、Scr、BUN、血压等。 结果 （1）PNS患者及健康对照人群均能检测出T、C两种TGF-β1等位基因,存在TT型、TC型、CC型3种基因型。（2）TGF-β1基因-509C/T位点多态性在PNS患者和健康人群中的分布差异无统计学意义;等位基因频率在两组间差异也无统计学意义。（3） TID轻度组、重度组TGF-β1基因-509C/T位点的基因型频率和健康对照组比较,差异有统计学意义（均P < 0.01）。TID重度组患者的T等位基因频率和TT基因型频率明显高于TID轻度组和健康对照组（均P < 0.01）,而TID轻度组和健康对照组间差异无统计学意义。（4）TID重度、轻度组及健康对照组TGF-β1血清水平两两比较,差异均有统计学意义（均P < 0.05）。PNS组TT基因型患者血清TGF-β1水平高于CC和CT基因型患者,且与CC基因型间差异有统计学意义（P < 0.05）。 结论 TGF-β1基因－509C/T多态性与PNS的发病无关,但其T等位基因可能是PNS患者TID的重要遗传因素。血清TGF-β1水平升高和TID程度与TT基因型有关。     

The 825C/T polymorphism of the G-protein subunit beta3 does not influence blood pressure and renal function in kidney transplant recipients.

BACKGROUND: Recently, a polymorphism at position 825 (C-->T) of the cDNA that encodes the beta3 subunit of heterotrimeric G proteins (Gbeta3) was found to be associated with essential hypertension. The T allele leads to the formation of a truncated splice variant (Gbeta3-s) with enhanced activity, promoting hypertension. We examined whether the T allele had an influence on blood pressure (BP) and early renal function after renal transplantation. METHODS: We determined the Gbeta3 genotype and T allele frequencies in renal transplant patients and examined associations with BP, BP medications, and renal function in the first year after transplantation. RESULTS: In renal transplant recipients (n=216) the frequency of the T allele was marginally increased (0.34 vs 0.29) compared with normal healthy blood donors (n=163). Age, sex and body mass index were similar in patients with the CC, CT and TT genotype. BP, number of BP medications, and serum creatinine levels were also similar for the three genotypes within the first year after transplantation. Significantly more patients with the TT genotype (48%) had glomerulonephritis as the underlying renal disease, compared with the CT (29%) and CC (27%) genotypes. CONCLUSIONS: The T allele of Gbeta3 does not have a negative impact on BP and early renal function in recipients of a renal allograft. The T allele might play a role in the pathogenesis of chronic glomerulonephritides.     

CD14基因启动子区-159位点多态性在重度烧伤患者中的分布及意义

目的 了解CD14基因启动子-159C/T基因多态性与严重烧伤患者CD14 mRNA表达及血浆可溶性CD14(sCD14)水平的关系.方法 2004年6月-2006年6月,选择2个笔者单位收治的烧伤总面积大于或等于30%TBSA的患者77例,分别于伤后1、3、5、7、14、21、28 d抽取患者静脉血,采用PCR-限制性片段长度多态性法检测血浆CD14-159C/T基因多态性,酶联免疫吸附测定法、RT-PCR法检测患者血浆sCD14的含量及白细胞CD14 mRNA表达.结果 77例患者的CD14基因C-159T基因型中,CC纯合子型7例占9.1%、TC杂合子型49例占63.6%、TT等位基因纯合子型21例占27.3%,T等位基因和C等位基因分布频率分别为59.1%和40.9%.经检验表明,此研究群体达到了Hard-Weinberg平衡.7例CC纯合子型患者中并发脓毒症3例占42.9%,49例TC杂合子型并发该症38例占77.6%,21例TT等位基因纯合子型并发该症15例占71.4%.3例CC纯合子型脓毒症患者中,1例出现MODS;38例TC杂合子型脓毒症患者19例出现MODS占50.0%;15例TT等位基因纯合子型脓毒症患者10例出现MODS占66.7%.伤后7～21 d TC杂合子型、TT等位基因纯合子型患者外周血CD14 mRNA表达明显高于CC纯合子型患者(P＜0.05或P＜0.01).伤后7d TC杂合子型、TT等位基因纯合子型患者CD14 mRNA表达达高峰,分别为1.18±0.25、1.15±0.35.烧伤后TC杂合子型、TT等位基因纯合子型患者血浆中sCD14含量较高,伤后5 d CC纯合子型患者血浆sCD14含量(85±46)μg/L显著低于TC杂合子型患者[(134±43)μg/L,P＜0.01];伤后21、28 d TC杂合子型、TT等位基因纯合子型患者sCD14含量明显高于CC纯合子型患者(P＜0.01).结论 大面积烧伤后CD14基因启动子-159位点多态性TT基因型可能是烧伤感染患者发生MODS的主要基因标志物之一.携带TT基因型的烧伤脓毒症患者并发MODS概率高于其他基因型.