Angiotensin-converting enzyme gene I/D dimorphism does not play a major role in the susceptibility of Malaysian systemic lupus erythematosus patients
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
4-1-2012
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that causes systemic damage, involving auto-reactive antibodies and over-deposition of immune complexes. Susceptibility to SLE is believed to be multifactorial, and genetics is one of the proven etiological factors; it can affect SLE development, severity and prognosis. We investigated a possible association between the angiotensin-converting enzyme gene and susceptibility to SLE in the Malaysian population. PCR was employed for the determination of I/D dimorphism of this gene. The I allele was more frequent than the D allele in both the SLE patients (N = 170) and healthy controls (N = 190). However, there was no significant difference in the distribution of these two alleles between both groups studied (χ(2) = 0.284, P > 0.05). Interestingly, the DD homozygous genotype scored notably higher in the healthy control group (χ(2) = 7.568, P < 0.05), while the ID heterozygote was observed to be significantly associated with SLE (χ(2) = 11.143, P < 0.05). In conclusion, with respect to the Malaysian population, the DD genotype might play a protective role in the development of SLE while in contrast, those who carry the ID genotype might be at potential risk for onset of this disease.
Keywords
Molecular Medicine
Divisions
fac_med
Publication Title
Genetics and Molecular Research
Volume
11
Issue
2
Additional Information
Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. lhlian@ummc.edu.my