Polymorphism in the STAT6 gene encodes risk for nut allergy
M M Amoli1, S Hand, A H Hajeer
1The Centre for Integrated Genomic Medical Research, Manchester University Medical School, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK.
Genes and Immunity
|June 12, 2002
Summary
A specific gene variant in signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT6) is linked to increased risk and severity of nut allergy in UK children. This finding may help identify individuals susceptible to severe allergic reactions.
Area of Science:
- Immunogenetics
- Molecular Allergology
Background:
- Nut allergy is a prevalent and serious food allergy affecting 1 in 150 UK children.
- Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT6) plays a key role in allergic responses.
- STAT6 gene region is associated with IgE levels and atopy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between a STAT6 gene polymorphism and nut allergy.
- To determine if this polymorphism correlates with allergy severity.
Main Methods:
- Genotyping of a STAT6 3'UTR single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) using PCR-RFLP.
- Comparison of allele frequencies between 71 UK Caucasoid nut allergy patients, 45 atopic non-nut allergy patients, and 184 healthy controls.
Main Results:
- The STAT6 G allele was significantly more frequent in nut allergy patients than controls (P < 0.0001).
- GG homozygosity showed a strong association with nut allergy susceptibility (OR = 3.2) and severe reactions (OR = 3.9).
- No significant association was found in atopic patients without nut allergy.
Conclusions:
- STAT6 3'UTR polymorphism is associated with increased susceptibility to nut allergy.
- This genetic variation is linked to the severity of nut allergic reactions in the studied population.
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