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Published on: December 9, 2015
Vitamin D Receptor Gene Polymorphism and the Risk of Multiple Sclerosis in the Azeri Population of Iran
Mahya Pourostadi1, Simin Sattarpour2, Behroz M Poor3
1Biotechnology Research Center and Faculty of Paramedicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
Background:
Multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease of the central nervous system (CNS), is associated with damage to the myelin sheath of neurons. It is demonstrated that vitamin D deficiency plays an important role in the development of the disease. Binding of vitamin D to its specific nuclear receptors is a way to exert its function.
Objective:
Possible correlation between the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene and MS was evaluated in the Azeri population of Iran.
Methods:
Different genotypes of the Bsml site were determined by using the PCR-RFLP method in 148 MS patients and 220 non-relative healthy controls.
Results:
In MS patients, genotype bb was significantly higher than the healthy controls (p<0.05). Additionally, most subjects of the MS group had been insufficiently exposed to sunlight before the age of 15 (p<0.001). Our findings indicated that the red meat intake in MS patients was significantly higher than the healthy controls (p<0.001). In addition, the healthy controls had appropriate dieting behaviors in comparison to MS patients (excessive intake of some foods) (p=0.0001).
Conclusion:
In conclusion, genotype BB and sufficient exposure to sunlight before the age of 15 were the protective factors against MS. Although, excessive consumption of red meat and inappropriate dieting behaviors were predisposing factors to MS disease.
Insights
Vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene variations and lifestyle factors like sun exposure and diet influence multiple sclerosis (MS) risk. Genotype BB and adequate sun exposure appear protective, while high red meat intake and poor diet may increase MS susceptibility.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Genetics
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) involves central nervous system myelin damage.
- Vitamin D deficiency is implicated in MS development.
- Vitamin D functions via nuclear receptors.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate the correlation between the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene and MS in the Azeri population of Iran.
- Investigate potential lifestyle risk factors for MS.
Main Methods:
- Genotyping of the VDR gene's Bsml site using PCR-RFLP.
- Comparison of genotypes between 148 MS patients and 220 healthy controls.
- Assessment of sun exposure history and dietary habits.
Main Results:
- Genotype bb was significantly more prevalent in MS patients (p<0.05).
- MS patients reported insufficient sun exposure before age 15 (p<0.001).
- Higher red meat intake (p<0.001) and inappropriate dieting (p=0.0001) were observed in MS patients.
Conclusions:
- Genotype BB and sufficient sun exposure before age 15 are protective factors against MS.
- Excessive red meat consumption and poor dietary habits are predisposing factors for MS.
- VDR genotype and lifestyle factors play a role in MS pathogenesis.
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