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Updated: May 8, 2026
05:53
Candidate Gene Testing in Clinical Cohort Studies with Multiplexed Genotyping and Mass Spectrometry
Published on: June 21, 2018
Evaluation of genetic polymorphisms in patients with multiple chemical sensitivity
Xiaoyi Cui1, Xi Lu, Mizue Hiura
1Department of Public Health, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan. bjcxy860508@hotmail.com
Plos One
|August 23, 2013
Summary
Genetic variations in superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) are linked to increased risk of multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS). This study found specific SOD2 polymorphisms significantly associated with chemical sensitivity in Japanese male workers.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Genetics
- Toxicology
Background:
- Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is a chronic condition affecting responses to low-level chemical exposure.
- Understanding the genetic factors influencing chemical sensitivity is crucial for identifying at-risk populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify a chemical sensitive population (CSP) among Japanese male workers.
- To investigate the association between genetic polymorphisms and the risk of developing chemical sensitivity.
Main Methods:
- A survey of 324 Japanese male workers using the Quick Environment Exposure and Sensitivity Inventory (QEESI) questionnaire.
- Analysis of genetic polymorphisms in key xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes, including SOD2, CYP2E1, NAT2, GSTs, and ALDH2.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in SOD2 polymorphisms and allele frequencies were observed in individuals with high chemical sensitivity.
- Specific SOD2 genotypes (Ala/Ala and Val/Ala) showed a significantly increased odds ratio for high chemical sensitivity compared to the Val/Val genotype.
Conclusions:
- High chemical sensitivity, diagnosed using Japanese criteria for MCS, is significantly associated with SOD2 polymorphisms.
- These findings suggest that SOD2 genetic variations may contribute to the predisposition to multiple chemical sensitivity.
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