[Not Available].

Area of Science:

• Genetics and Molecular Biology
• Nutritional Science
• Obesity Research

Background:

• A specific G->A transition mutation at position -308 in the TNF-alpha gene promoter (rs1800629) is known.
• Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) plays a role in inflammation and metabolic processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of the TNF-alpha -308 GA promoter polymorphism on metabolic response and weight loss.
• To compare the effects of two hypocaloric diets (high protein/low carbohydrate vs. standard) on individuals with different TNF-alpha genotypes.

Main Methods:

• 283 obese subjects were enrolled in a prospective study.
• Participants were randomized to either a high-protein (HP) or standard (S) hypocaloric diet for 9 months.
• Genetic analysis focused on the TNF-alpha -308 promoter polymorphism (rs1800629).

Main Results:

• No significant differences in weight loss were observed between genotypes for either diet.
• In the wild-type (GG) genotype, both diets led to decreases in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, with a more significant improvement in triglycerides for those without the A allele.
• The high-protein diet in the wild-type genotype group resulted in significant reductions in insulin levels and HOMA-R.

Conclusions:

• The -308 GG promoter variant of the TNF-alpha gene is associated with a superior metabolic response compared to the -308 GA variant in obese individuals consuming a high-protein hypocaloric diet.
• Genetic variations in TNF-alpha may influence the effectiveness of dietary interventions for metabolic health.