[Relationship between vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism and preterm birth]

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Obstetrics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Preterm birth is a significant global health concern with complex etiological factors.
• The vitamin D receptor (VDR) plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including reproductive health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms at the Fok I site and the risk of preterm birth.
• To identify potential genetic markers for predicting or intervening in preterm delivery.

Main Methods:

• Case-control study involving 57 women with preterm birth and 84 with full-term birth.
• Genotyping of the VDR gene Fok I site was performed using Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).

Main Results:

• A significant difference in VDR gene Fok I genotype distribution and allele frequency was observed between preterm and full-term birth groups.
• The FF genotype was found significantly more often in the preterm group and was associated with a 3.32-fold increased risk of preterm delivery (OR=3.320, 95% CI [1.560, 7.066]).
• No significant differences in maternal age, D-dimer, fibrinogen, serum calcium, leukocyte count, or HbA1c were found between genotypes within the preterm group.

Conclusions:

• VDR gene Fok I site genotypes are significantly related to preterm birth.
• The FF genotype of the VDR gene Fok I site may serve as a potential genetic risk factor for preterm birth.