[TGF-beta1 gene polymorphism in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease]

Gene polymorphism is often responsible for occurrence of some chronic diseases. It has not been clarified, why only 15-20% of smokers suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). TGF-beta1 gene polymorphism has been postulated as one of possible genetic risk factors. The aim of our study was to evaluate TGF-beta1 gene polymorphism in codons 10 and 25 in COPD patients in comparison to healthy controls. Thirty six COPD patients and 60 healthy persons entered the study. The distribution of TGF-beta1 genotypes in codon 10 was as follows in COPD group: T/C--50%, T/T--25% and C/C--25% in control group: 45%, 42% and 13% respectively. The distribution of genotypes in codon 25 in COPD patients was: G/G 86% and G/C 14%, in control group 83% and 17% respectively. There were not statistically significant differences between evaluated groups with regard to both polymorphisms. Moreover, in group of 27 smokers without COPD the distribution of the analysed TGF-beta1 gene polymorphism was similar to that in COPD group. After adjustment to sex, age and smoking index, in the logistic regression model, we can not confirm the hypothesis that TGF-beta1 gene polymorphisms in codons 10 and 25 might be significant risk factors of COPD.