GENETIC VARIATION OF IL13 AS A RISK FACTOR OF REDUCED LUNG FUNCTION IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL POPULATION-BASED STUDY IN KOREA

Abstract

Background: Previous investigations have suggested that genetic variations are associated with reduced lung function in early childhood. This study was conducted to evaluate the association between IL13 + 2044G -> A, the functionally relevant single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the gene coding IL13, and lung function in early childhood. Patients and methods: A total of 1900 subjects aged 10-18 years living in Korea, were randomly recruited. Lung function test and methacholine bronchial provocation test were performed. Multiple regression analysis adjusting for sex, age, height, atopy, and history of passive smoking was done to evaluate effect of IL13 + 2044G -> A on lung function. Results: Mean (SD) forced expiratory volume in 1s (FEV1) was 2.66 L (+/- 0.60) in subjects with the AA or AG genotype (n = 982) and 2.75 L (+/- 0.57) in subjects with the GG genotype In = 918). IL13 + 2044G -> A showed a significant association with FEV1 [in the minor allele dominant model (GG vs. AG + AA), P A remained still significant in subgroup analysis according to the presence of AHR (P A in both groups (P A is significantly associated with a reduced lung function in Korean children and adolescents. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.X1114sciescopu