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Functionally relevant polymorphisms in the human nuclear vitamin D receptor gene
G K Whitfield1, L S Remus, P W Jurutka
1Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, 1501 N. Campbell Ave., University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA.
Two common human vitamin D receptor (hVDR) gene variations significantly impact its activity. Simultaneous analysis of these polymorphisms reveals distinct high and low activity groups, suggesting a third genetic factor.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- The vitamin D receptor (VDR) plays a crucial role in calcium homeostasis and gene regulation.
- Common genetic variations in the VDR gene may influence its function and associated health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the functional significance of two specific human VDR gene polymorphisms.
- To determine how these polymorphisms affect VDR transcriptional activity in human cells.
Main Methods:
- Genotyping of VDR polymorphisms at the Fok I (F/f) and exon IX L/S sites in 20 human fibroblast cell lines.
- Measurement of endogenous VDR transcriptional activity using a vitamin D-responsive reporter gene assay.
Main Results:
- Observed VDR activity varied from 2- to 100-fold induction by the hormone 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3).
- The F and L biallelic forms of the polymorphisms were associated with higher VDR activity.
- Statistically significant differences in VDR activity emerged only when considering both polymorphisms simultaneously.
- A clear segregation into high and low VDR activity groups was observed, correlating with specific genotype combinations.
Conclusions:
- Both the Fok I (F/f) and exon IX (L/S) polymorphisms in the human VDR gene have functional significance.
- Simultaneous analysis of these VDR polymorphisms provides a more accurate assessment of receptor activity.
- Evidence suggests the existence of a third, unidentified genetic variable influencing VDR potency.
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