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Published on: September 22, 2023
Olfactory receptor gene polymorphisms and nonallergic vasomotor rhinitis
Jonathan A Bernstein1, Ge Zhang, Li Jin
1University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Immunology/Allergy Section, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267-0053, USA. Jonathan.Bernstein@uc.edu
Summary
This study investigated olfactory receptor (OR) gene single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and their association with nonallergic vasomotor rhinitis (nVMR). Initial findings were not replicated, suggesting underpowered studies require further investigation for conclusive results.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Olfactory receptor research
Background:
- Nonallergic vasomotor rhinitis (nVMR) is a chronic nasal condition.
- The role of olfactory receptor (OR) genes in nVMR is not well understood.
- Genetic variations in OR genes may influence susceptibility to nVMR.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in olfactory receptor (OR) gene clusters and odor-triggered nonallergic vasomotor rhinitis (nVMR).
- To assess the reproducibility of potential genotype-phenotype associations in independent cohorts.
Main Methods:
- Initial pedigree screen using Transmission Disequilibrium Test (TDT) analysis.
- Case-control population study to validate initial findings.
- Statistical analyses including Bonferroni correction and empirical p-value calculation via permutation testing.
Main Results:
- Six SNPs initially showed significant p-values (0.0449-0.0043) in the pedigree screen.
- These six SNPs did not re-emerge in the case-control study; four new SNPs showed p-values (0.0490-0.0001).
- No SNPs survived Bonferroni correction; one SNP had an empirical p-value of 0.0066 but was not significant in the pedigree study (p=0.83).
Conclusions:
- Underpowered studies with p-values between 0.05 and 0.0001 are inconclusive and require replication.
- The hypothesis of an association between OR genotypes and nVMR remains feasible.
- Future genomewide association studies or microarray analyses of the OR genome in well-characterized nVMR patients are necessary.
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