SDF1 Gene Variation Is Associated with Circulating SDF1α Level and Endothelial Progenitor Cell Number–The Bruneck Study
2008

SDF1 Gene Variation and Endothelial Progenitor Cells

Sample size: 826 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Xiao Qingzhong, Ye Shu, Oberhollenzer Friedrich, Mayr Agnes, Jahangiri Marjan, Willeit Johann, Kiechl Stefan, Xu Qingbo

Primary Institution: King's College London BHF Centre

Hypothesis

Is there a relationship between SDF1 gene variation, plasma SDF-1alpha level, and the number and function of circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs)?

Conclusion

SDF1 gene variation influences SDF1α level and circulating EPC number, with plasma SDF1α level being a predictor of EPC number.

Supporting Evidence

  • SDF1α levels were correlated with age, gender, and other health markers.
  • EPC number was inversely associated with SDF1α level.
  • The SDF1 gene rs2297630 SNP A/A genotype was linked to increased SDF1α level and lower EPC number.
  • Plasma SDF1α level was shown to have predictive value for EPC number.

Takeaway

This study found that changes in a specific gene can affect the levels of a protein in the blood, which in turn can predict how many special cells that help blood vessels grow are in the body.

Methodology

The study genotyped individuals for SNPs in the SDF1 and CXCR4 genes and measured blood SDF1α levels and EPC numbers.

Potential Biases

Potential biases related to self-reported data on lifestyle factors.

Limitations

The study may not account for all factors influencing EPC numbers, and the definition of EPCs can vary.

Participant Demographics

Residents of the Bruneck area in Italy, with a sample size of 826.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0004061

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