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The vitamin D receptor Fok1 polymorphism and bone mineral density in Chinese children

Chunlian Zhang1, Chunhong Wang, Jiancheng Liang

  • 1Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, People's Republic of China.

Clinica Chimica Acta; International Journal of Clinical Chemistry
|June 24, 2008
PubMed

Insights

The vitamin D receptor (VDR) Fok1 gene variant influences bone mineral density in Chinese children. Children with the FF genotype had higher bone density, while the Ff genotype was linked to lower bone mass.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Pediatrics
  • Bone Metabolism

Background:

  • Vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphism is studied for its role in bone health.
  • Understanding genetic factors influencing bone mineral density (BMD) in children is crucial for skeletal development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between VDR gene polymorphism (Fok1) and BMD in healthy Chinese children.
  • To explore the relationship between lifestyle factors (diet, outdoor activity) and BMD in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study involving 213 healthy children (aged 6-10 years) in China.
  • BMD measurement using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry; VDR Fok1 polymorphism analyzed via PCR-RFLP.
  • Dietary patterns and outdoor activity assessed through questionnaires.

Main Results:

  • Significant differences in BMD between boys and girls were observed in the 8/9-year-old group.
  • The FF genotype was associated with higher forearm BMD compared to the Ff genotype (P<0.01).
  • The Ff genotype showed the lowest forearm BMD in both genders; outdoor activity positively impacted peak bone mass.

Conclusions:

  • The Fok1 polymorphism of the VDR gene appears to directly influence bone mineral mass in Chinese children.
  • Genetic variations in VDR may play a role in determining peak bone mass during childhood.
Abstract

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