SIRT1 gene variants are related to risk of childhood obesity

Obesity is a multifactorial disorder resulting from the interaction between genetic, psychological, physical, environmental, and socioeconomic factors. SIRT1 gene has important effects on the regulation of adiponectin, caloric restriction, insulin sensitivity, coronary atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between childhood obesity and SIRT1 gene polymorphisms regarding rs7895833 A > G in the promoter region, rs7069102 C > G in intron 4, and rs2273773 C > T in exon 5 using PCR-CTPP method in 120 obese and 120 normal weight children. In this study, BMI, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, triglyceride, and insulin levels were significantly higher and HDL-cholesterol levels were significantly lower in obese children compared to normal weight children. For rs7895833 A > G, the rate of having AG genotype and G allele was significantly higher in obese children compared to non-obese group (p < 0.001). The risk for obesity was increased by 1.9 times in G allele carriers; therefore, A allele may be protective against obesity. Both study groups had CT heterozygote genotype for rs2273773 C > T. There was no significant difference for rs7069102 C > G gene polymorphism between groups. Conclusion: This is the first study reporting an association between SIRT1 gene polymorphisms and obesity in children.