IL4-R1 (5q31-q33) and FcepsilonRI-betaca (11q13) markers and atopy: a case/control study in a spanish population

BACKGROUND: Rhinoconjunctivitis and bronchial asthma are atopic diseases with a high prevalence in the Canary Islands (Spain). Given that the most prevalent allergen is the house-dust mite Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, early detection of genetically susceptible subjects would allow the application of preventive measures. The objective was to investigate the possible association of IL4-R1 (chromosome 5q31-q33) and FcepsilonRI-betaca (chromosome 11q13) markers with the atopic disease in our population. METHODS: We performed a case/control study in which patients were recruited on the basis of diagnosis of rhinoconjunctivitis and/or bronchial asthma, and positive skin prick test to D. pteronyssinus. Analysis of IL4-R1 and FcepsilonRI-betaca microsatellites was carried out by PCR and electrophoresis in acrylamide gels. RESULTS: We have not found evidence of association between IL4-R1 and FcepsilonRI-betaca markers and atopic disease in our population. In addition, these markers have shown a high percentage of homozygosis. CONCLUSIONS: IL4-R1 and FcepsilonRI-betaca markers have not proved to be useful genetic markers for linkage or association studies in our population.