Abstract
Objectives. Metallothioneins (MT) are zinc-binding proteins which, by means of their antioxidant properties, might prevent the development of diabetic cardiovascular complications. A recent investigation shows that A/C +647 MT1A polymorphism affects the intracellular zinc ion release (iZnR) from MT and is associated with longevity. The aim of the present study is to assess the role of + 647 A/C MT1A polymorphism with the susceptibility to type 2 diabetes (DM2). Materials and methods. The case-control association study included 242 old healthy controls and 235 diabetic patients with a diagnosis of CVD (age > 60 yrs). Results. C allele was more prevalent in patients than in controls (OR = 1.54; p = 0.002). C+ carriers showed higher blood glucose levels and glycosylated hemoglobin. A modulation of MT levels and iZnR were observed in relation to +647A/C MT1A polymorphism. Conclusions. An association between +647 A/C MT1A polymorphism and DM2 was found. Moreover, C+ carriers presented a worse glycemic control and an altered zinc homeostasis, suggesting a possible role of MT in the progression of DM2.
Translated title of the contribution | Implications of +647 A/C MT1A polymorphism in type 2 diabetes |
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Original language | Italian |
Pages (from-to) | 189-193 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Giornale di Gerontologia |
Volume | 57 |
Issue number | 4 |
Publication status | Published - Aug 2009 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Ageing
- Geriatrics and Gerontology