Lipoprotein Lipase Genetic Variants rs258 and rs326 Differentially Affect Lipid Profiles and Leptin Levels in Prepubertal Spanish Caucasian Children

TL;DR

This study finds that specific genetic variants in the LPL gene affect lipid levels and leptin concentrations differently in prepubertal children.

Contribution

The study identifies sex-specific effects of LPL SNVs rs258 and rs326 on lipid profiles and leptin levels in prepubertal children.

Findings

LPL rs258 is associated with NEFA levels in males and leptin in both sexes.

LPL rs326 is linked to LDL-C and Apo-B levels with opposite trends in males and females.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Variants in the lipoprotein lipase (LPL) gene have been associated with lipid level variability and obesity; however, their role in energy homeostasis remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of LPL single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) with lipid parameters and leptin concentrations in a cohort of prepubertal children. The sample population comprised 635 boys and 631 girls, with available information on lipid profiles and leptin levels. Methods: Five LPL SNVs (rs258, rs316, rs326, rs320, and rs328) were genotyped by Real-Time PCR using predesigned TaqMan™ Genotyping Assays. Results: An association of the LPL SNV rs258 was found with non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) levels in males and with leptin concentrations in both sexes. On the other hand, an association of the LPL SNV rs326 was observed with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and apolipoprotein B (Apo-B) levels, displaying opposite trends in males and females. No significant associations with any of the parameters under study were observed for the remaining LPL SNVs. Conclusions: These results suggest that functional differences among LPL SNVs may either be related to an enhancement of catalytic activity or modulation of lipoprotein binding affinity, influencing the efficiency of remnant lipoprotein clearance.

Figures