[Analysis of the FABP2 gene Ala54Thr polymorphism in non-obese and obese Chinese]

To investigate the fatty acid-binding protein 2 gene (FABP2) Ala54Thr polymorphism and its relationship to obesity in Chinese population.

Three hundred and ninety three subjects (272 non-obese and 121 obese individuals) from a population of Chinese Han nationality in Chengdu area were studied using PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphisms (PCR-RFLPs). Serum lipids were measured by enzymatic kits and apolipoproteins A I, A II, B100, C II, CIII and E were measured by the RID kits.

The frequencies of Ala and Thr allele at Ala54Thr site in obese and non-obese groups were 71.5%, 28.5%, and 71.1%, 28.9%, respectively. No significant difference in the allele frequencies between the two groups was observed (P > 0.05). In the obese group, subjects with Thr allele (AlaThr +ThrThr genotype carriers)had higher serum triglyceride (TG) concentrations than those with genotype AlaAla (P < 0.05). Similar results were observed in obese male subgroup, when male and female subgroups were further separated. In addition, obese males with AlaThr had lower HDL-C levels than those with genotype AlaAla. No significant difference of lipid and apolipoprotein levels was observed in obese females or non-obese group.

The Ala54Thr polymorphism in the FABP2 gene was not associated with obesity in Chinese Han population of Chengdu area. However, it may be associated with serum TG, HDL-C levels, with some gender-specific effect, in this population.