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Fatty acid binding protein 2 and insulin resistance
1Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA. kchiu@mednet.ucla.edu
European Journal of Clinical Investigation
|June 26, 2001
Summary
The A54T polymorphism in the fatty acid binding protein 2 (FABP2) gene is linked to insulin resistance in Caucasians. This genetic variation independently influences insulin sensitivity, highlighting its role as a risk factor.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Molecular Biology
- Metabolic Diseases
- Human Physiology
Background:
- The A54T polymorphism of the fatty acid binding protein 2 (FABP2) gene has been associated with insulin resistance.
- Previous findings were observed in nondiabetic Pima Indian populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the FABP2 A54T polymorphism in insulin resistance.
- To examine the association between FABP2 genotypes and measures of insulin sensitivity and beta-cell function in healthy Caucasians.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 71 healthy Caucasian subjects with normal glucose tolerance.
- Genotyping using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).
- Estimation of insulin sensitivity (e.g., %S, ISI(S)) and beta-cell function using established models.
Main Results:
- Subjects with the AT/TT genotypes exhibited lower insulin sensitivity (%S, ISI(S)) compared to the AA genotype group (P < 0.05).
- The FABP2 A54T polymorphism was identified as an independent, albeit modest, determinant of insulin sensitivity.
- No significant differences in beta-cell function were observed between genotypic groups.
Conclusions:
- The A54T polymorphism in the FABP2 gene is a risk factor for insulin resistance in a Caucasian population.
- This genetic variant contributes to variations in insulin sensitivity.
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