Background and aims: Some studies have pointed to a role of UCP3 in the regulation of whole-body energy homeostasis and regulation of fat distribution. The aim of our study was to investigate the influence of -55CT polymorphism of UCP3 gene on fat distribution and classical cardiovascular risk factors in obese patients.
Design: A population of 225 obese patients was analyzed in a prospective way. A nutritional evaluation was performed. Dietary intake and exercise were recorded. The genotype of UCP3 gene -55CT was studied.
Results: 225 patients gave informed consent and were enrolled. 178 (53 males/125 females) (79.1%) had genotype 55CC (wild group) and 47 patients (14 males/33 females) (20.9%) 55CT (mutant group). In the mutant group, resting metabolic rate was higher than in the wild group. However, resting metabolic rate corrected by fat-free mass was similar. No differences were detected in fat mass or other anthropometric parameters. C-reactive protein was higher in the mutant group than in the wild group (5.1 +/- 5.7 vs. 6.9 +/- 6.8 mg/dl; p < 0.05).
Conclusion: In the mutant group of -55CC UCP3 gene patients, C-reactive protein was higher than in the wild-type patients. However, no differences in anthropometric parameters were detected in either group.
Copyright (c) 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.