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Published on: July 14, 2016

Association of COMT gene polymorphisms with systemic atherosclerosis in elderly Japanese

Maung Kyi Chan Ko1, Shinobu Ikeda, Makiko Mieno-Naka

  • 1Department of Molecular Epidemiology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan.

Journal of Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis
|July 14, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Certain catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene variations are linked to more severe atherosclerosis in Japanese elders. This genetic association, particularly with the COMT gene, was more pronounced in females, suggesting a sex-specific influence on this common cardiovascular disease.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics and Cardiovascular Disease
  • Molecular Epidemiology
  • Gerontology

Background:

  • Atherosclerotic disease is a significant health concern in the elderly, resulting from intricate genetic and environmental interactions.
  • The catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene plays a role in metabolizing catecholamines and estrogens.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between polymorphisms in the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene and the severity of atherosclerotic disease.
  • To examine this relationship in a Japanese elderly population.

Main Methods:

  • Assessed pathological atherosclerotic index (PAI), coronary stenotic index (CSI), and intracranial stenotic index (ICAI) in 1536 autopsy cases.
  • Genotyped two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the COMT gene: rs4633 (C/T) and rs4680 (G/A).
  • The rs4680 (G/A) SNP involves a valine to methionine substitution.

Main Results:

  • The CC genotype of rs4633 and the GG genotype of rs4680 were significantly associated with a higher PAI, even after adjusting for risk factors (p=0.035 and p=0.031).
  • No significant associations were found between COMT genotypes and CSI or ICAI.
  • The association between COMT genotypes and PAI was significant only in female subjects after adjustments (p=0.012 and p=0.027).

Conclusions:

  • A functional single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the COMT gene is associated with atherosclerosis severity in Japanese elderly individuals.
  • The impact of COMT genotype on atherosclerosis appears to be stronger in females than in males.

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