C-reactive protein gene rs1205 polymorphism is associated with low-grade chronic inflammation in postmenopausal women

Area of Science:

• Genetics and Cardiovascular Health
• Inflammation Biomarkers
• Postmenopausal Health

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the primary cause of mortality in postmenopausal women.
• Atherosclerosis pathogenesis involves inflammation, with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) as a key inflammation biomarker.
• The C-reactive protein (CRP) gene rs1205 polymorphism is linked to hs-CRP levels, suggesting a potential role in cardiovascular risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if CRP gene rs1205 genotypes influence low-grade chronic inflammation.
• To determine if rs1205 genotypes serve as a marker for cardiovascular risk in postmenopausal women.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 327 postmenopausal women without clinical disease.
• Genotyping of the CRP rs1205 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with allelic discrimination.
• Classification of participants based on hs-CRP levels: ≥3 mg/l (low-grade chronic inflammation) or <3 mg/l.

Main Results:

• The frequency of the C allele at rs1205 was higher in the low-grade chronic inflammation group (74.2%) compared to the control group (59%).
• Multivariable analysis revealed an association between the CC genotype of CRP rs1205 and a higher prevalence of hs-CRP ≥3 mg/l (Prevalence Ratio [PR] 1.53; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.07-2.18; p=0.018).
• Increased waist circumference (≥88 cm) was also significantly associated with higher hs-CRP levels (PR 2.45; 95% CI 1.66-3.60; p<0.001).

Conclusions:

• Individuals with the CC genotype at the CRP rs1205 polymorphism may face an elevated risk of developing low-grade chronic inflammation.
• This genetic predisposition, particularly in CC homozygotes, could signify a heightened cardiovascular risk profile in postmenopausal women.