MMP-2 Gene Variants and Childhood Obesity
Author Information
Author(s): Morgan Angharad R, Han Dug Yeo, Thompson John MD, Mitchell Edwin A, Ferguson Lynnette R
Primary Institution: The University of Auckland
Hypothesis
The study aims to evaluate the role of MMP-2 promoter polymorphisms in percentage body fat as a measure of childhood obesity.
Conclusion
The study suggests a possible genetic contribution to childhood obesity through MMP-2 promoter haplotypes.
Supporting Evidence
- The study identified a genetic association between MMP-2 promoter haplotypes and percentage body fat in children.
- Environmental factors were previously shown to influence body fat in the same study group.
Takeaway
The study found that certain gene variations might affect how much body fat children have, which is important for understanding obesity.
Methodology
Participants were genotyped for three MMP-2 promoter SNPs and analyzed for their association with percentage body fat using bioelectrical impedance analysis.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the disproportionate sample of small for gestational age and appropriate for gestational age infants.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable due to poor follow-up of non-European ethnicities.
Participant Demographics
Children from the Auckland Birthweight Collaborative study, primarily of European ethnicity.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.037, 0.027, 0.028
Confidence Interval
(0.08 - 2.56), (0.16 - 2.64), (0.16 - 2.69)
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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