Extended Haplotypes in the Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone Receptor Gene (GHRHR) Are Associated with Normal Variation in Height
2009

Genetic Variations in the GHRHR Gene and Their Impact on Height

Sample size: 510 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Åsa Johansson, Inger Jonasson, Ulf Gyllensten, Peter Heutink

Primary Institution: Uppsala University

Hypothesis

Does the GHRHR gene affect normal variation in height?

Conclusion

The study found that specific haplotypes in the GHRHR gene are significantly associated with variations in height.

Supporting Evidence

  • The GHRHR gene is linked to growth hormone regulation.
  • Two haplotypes associated with height were identified in both study populations.
  • The effect size of the GHRHR haplotypes is larger than previously identified genes affecting height.

Takeaway

Scientists looked at a gene that helps control growth and found that certain versions of this gene can make people taller or shorter.

Methodology

The study used whole genome linkage analysis and SNP association tests in two populations from northern Sweden.

Limitations

The study may not account for all genetic factors influencing height due to the complexity of height as a trait.

Participant Demographics

Participants were from the southern Swedish Sami population and an independent northern Swedish population.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.00077

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0004464

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