Role of -55CT polymorphism of UCP3 gene on non alcoholic fatty liver disease and insulin resistance in patients with obesity.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS Some studies have pointed to a role of UCP3 in the regulation of biochemical and fat parameters in overweight patients. The aim of our study was to investigate the influence of -55CT polymorphism of UCP3 gene (rs1800849) on histological changes and insulin resistance in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). MATERIAL AND METHODS A population of 39 patients with NAFLD was recruited in a cross sectional study. The inclusion criterion was the presence of biopsy-proven NAFLD. A biochemical analysis of serum (lipid profile, and adipocytokines) was measured. An anthropometric analysis was assessed, too. Genotype of UCP3 gene -55CT was studied. RESULTS Nine patients (23%) had the genotype 55CC (mutant type group) and 30 patients (77%) 55CT (wild type group).TT genotype was not detected. Insulin levels and HOMA were higher in mutant type group (insulin: 17.7 +/- 10.9 mUI/L vs 11.9 +/- 4.7 mUI/L/; p < 0.05) and (HOMA: 3.2 +/- 1.8 vs 4.5 +/- 2.8; p < 0.05). Adiponectin levels were lower in mutants type group (36.5 +/- 28.1 ug/ml vs 21.5 +/- 18.6 ug/ml:p < 0.05). Moderate-severe inflammation and moderate-severe steatosis were more frequent in mutant type group, with higher levels of insulin and lower levels of adiponectin than mild stages. CONCLUSION -55CT genotype is associated with high insulin resistance and low adiponectin levels than -55CC genotype. Patients with -55CT genotype have more frequently moderate-severe steatosis and inflammation than -55CC genotype.