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MIR146A and ADIPOQ genetic variants are associated with birth weight in relation to gestational age: a cohort study
Lívia Reis Silva1, Anderson Sanches Melo1,2, Karina Bezerra Salomão3
1Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirao Preto Medical School (FMRP), University of Sao Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
Insights
Genetic variants in miR-146a and ADIPOQ are linked to small for gestational age (SGA) birth weight. These findings may help predict health risks like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and obesity.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder with complex genetic underpinnings.
- Small for gestational age (SGA) is associated with increased risks of metabolic and reproductive health issues later in life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between genetic variants and PCOS and its metabolic complications in women born SGA.
- To identify specific genetic markers that may predispose SGA individuals to adverse health outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective birth cohort study involving 66 women (26 SGA, 40 AGA).
- Analysis of 48 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with PCOS and comorbidities.
- Measurement of anthropometric, biochemical characteristics, and PCOS prevalence.
- Bioinformatic analysis using miRNet and STRING databases to predict gene and protein networks.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in anthropometric/biochemical characteristics or PCOS prevalence between SGA and AGA groups.
- The rs2910164 (MIR146A) SNP showed increased minor allele frequency in the SGA group.
- The rs182052 (ADIPOQ) SNP was more frequent in the AGA group, with alleles linked to reduced miR-146a and ADIPOQ activity found in SGA individuals.
Conclusions:
- Specific allelic variants of miR-146a (rs2910164) and ADIPOQ (rs182052) are associated with birth weight status (SGA).
- These genetic variants may serve as predictive markers for health-related outcomes, including PCOS and obesity risk in individuals born SGA.
Purpose:
To evaluate the genetic variants related to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and its metabolic complications in girls born small for gestational age (SGA).
Design:
Retrospective birth cohort study.
Materials And Methods:
We evaluated 66 women of reproductive age born at term (37-42 weeks of gestational age) according to the birth weight in relation to gestational age: 26 SGA and 40 AGA (Adequate for gestational age). Anthropometric and biochemical characteristics were measured, as well as the PCOS prevalence. We analyzed 48 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) previously associated with PCOS and its comorbidities using TaqMan Low-Density Array (TLDA). miRNet and STRING databases were used to predict target and disease networks.
Results:
Anthropometric and biochemical characteristics did not differ between the SGA and AGA groups, as well as insulin resistance and PCOS prevalence. Two SNPs were not in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, the rs2910164 (MIR146A C > G) and rs182052 (ADIPOQ G > A). The rs2910164 minor allele frequency (MAF) was increased in SGA (OR, 2.77; 95%; CI, 1.22-6.29), while the rs182052 was increased AGA (OR, 0.34; 95%; CI, 0.13 - 0.88). The alleles related to reduced miRNA-146a (C) and ADIPOQ (A) activity showed increased frequency in SGA. The mature miR-146a targets 319 genes, been the CXCR4, TMEM167A and IF144L common targets and contributes to PCOS. The ADIPOQ main protein interactions were ERP44, PPARGCIA and CDH13.
Conclusions:
The miR-146a (rs2910164) and ADIPOQ (rs182052) allelic variants are related to birth weight in SGA and may predict health-related outcomes, such as PCOS and obesity risk.
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