The lactase rs4988235 is associated with obesity related variables and diabetes mellitus in menopausal obese females

D.A. de Luis, O. Izaola, D. Primo

Endocrinology and Nutrition Research Center, School of Medicine, Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Hospital Clinico Universitario, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain. dadluis@yahoo.es

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• Endocrinology

OBJECTIVE: Some studies showed specific associations of the Lactase persistence (LP) genotype (CT/TT) with obesity and its related comorbidities. The aim of the present investigation was to describe the association of rs4988235 with metabolic parameters, diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2), dairy product consumption in menopausal obese females.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study involved a population of 86 menopausal obese females. Measurements of anthropometric parameters, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, insulin concentration, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), lipid profile, bone metabolism biomarkers, and prevalence of (DM2) were recorded. The genotype of the Lactase gene polymorphism (rs48988235) was evaluated.

RESULTS: The distribution of the rs48988235 polymorphism was 16.3% (n=14) (CC), 38.4% (n=33) (CT) and 45.3% (n=39) (TT). The allele frequency was C (0.35) and T (0.65). In the recessive model, serum 25-OH Vitamin D, fasting glucose levels, insulin levels, and HOMA-IR were better in CC+CT genotype than TT genotype. In a dominant model, 25-OH Vitamin D, fasting glucose levels, insulin levels, and HOMA-IR were better in CC genotype than CT+TT genotype. In both genetic models, calcium, vitamin D, and milk intakes were higher in T allele carriers. In the dominant model (CT+TT genotype), logistic regression analysis showed an increased risk of hyperglycemia (OR=3.63, 95% CI=1.10-13.26, p=0.03) and prevalence of DM2 (OR=3.93, 95% CI=1.07-14.4, p=0.03), after adjusting by milk intake, BMI, and age. This association remained in recessive model (TT genotype); risk of hyperglycemia (OR=4.26, 95% CI=1.12-16.23, p=0.02) and prevalence of DM2 (OR=5.35, 95% CI=1.12-15.8, p=0.02).

CONCLUSIONS: T allele of rs48988235 variant in Lactase gene is associated with better glucose metabolism and lower risk of DM2 in menopausal obese females. In addition, dietary intakes of milk, calcium, and 25-OH vitamin D were higher too.

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