Genetic polymorphism of CYP11α(tttta)n allele in Chinese women

  Objective   To investigate(tttta)n microsatellite polymorphism in the promoter of CYP11a gene encoding cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme(Cytochr ome P450scc)in Chinese women and the association between the polymorphism and Body mass index(BMI)and Waist to hip ratio(WHR).

  Methods   BMI and WHR were determined.Blood samples were obtained for DNA analysis.(tttta)n allele were established from the total DNA using locu-sspecific prime PCR, followed by electrophoresis of PCR products in denaturing polyacryamide gels and subsequent detection by silver staining.

  Results   Six allele fragments were found.The allele distribution of CYP11a was as follows: (tttta)4, 0.207;(tttta)6, 0.667;(tttta) 7, 0.003, (tttta)8, 0.105;(tttta)9, 0.01;(tttta)10, 0.006.The allele distribution of CYP11a was statistically different between Chinese women and Caucasian women.No differences were observed in BMI and WHR among different genotype individuals.

  Conclusion   The frequency distribution of the CYP11A(tttta)n Allele is different between Chinese and Caucasian women.The(tttta)n polymorphism does not affect BMI and WHR of Chinese women.