Abstract
The Vitamin D Receptor gene (VDR) expressed in many tissues and are able to modulate the expression of several other genes. The purpose of this study was to assess the association between the metabolic syndrome (MetSyn) and the presence of VDR genes ApaI, BsmI, TaqI and FokI polymorphisms as well as serum levels of vitamin D. Total eighty two (82) individuals were assessed in a cross-sectional study. Enzymatic digestion method was used to detect the VDR polymorphisms and established by allele specific PCR or amplification of refractory mutation. MetSyn was classified based on the National Cholesterol Education Program -Adult Treatment Panel III Assessment of the association of VDR, as well as serum vitamin D level, with MetSyn components was also evaluated. Serum vitamin D levels were significantly low (p < 0.01) in MetSyn patients. The occurrence of the genotypes in Apal was significantly different as compared to individuals with MetSyn and the control group (P < 0.05). A negative correlation was reported between MetSyn and 25(OH) vitamin D levels, type-2 diabetes and glucose homeostasis. Further, as compared to individuals without MetSyn, subjects with MetSyn who carry AA genotype had higher waist circumference and BMI. Serum Vitamin D level was also inversely associated with waist circumference (P < 0.001), triglycerides (P < 0.01), haemoglobin A1c (P < 0.01), blood pressure (P < 0.05) as well as cardiovascular risk. Using the VDR polymorphism data suggests they may, partially, influence MetSyn. Patients with low serum vitamin D (25(OH) vitamin D) concentrations were at high risk of developing MetSyn. Repletion of Vitamin D might play a role in MetSyn prevention.