Neural Tube Defects in Tunisia: Epidemiological, Biochemical and Genetic Factors

Introduction: This study resumed epidemiological, biochemical and genetic factors associated with the occurrence of neural tube defects in Tunisia. Material and methods: This work builds on our previously published investigations, utilizing data retrospectively collected during (1991-2011), and prospectively collected between January 1, 2012, and December 30, 2013. Results: Our studies have demontrated that plasma folate, vitamin B12 and vitamin D concentrations were significantly lower in cases compared with controls. Homocysteine concentrations were significantly higher in cases compared with controls. Cases had higher concentrations of heptadecanoic acid, linolelaidic acid and arachidonic acid/(eicosapentaenoic acid + docosahexaenoic acid) ratio than controls. Nervonic acid, arachidonic acid, adrenic acid, Eicosapentaenoic Acid, Docosahexaenoic Acid, and omega 3 polyunsatured fatty acids concentrations were significantly lower in cases. Conclusion: Such research would contribute to a better understanding of the biochemical and genetic variances in mothers, highlighting the suitable status of vitamins, homocysteine, lipid profile, and genotype.