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Tricot G, De Wolf-Peeters C, Vlietinck R, Verwilghen RL. The importance of bone marrow biopsy in myelodysplastic disorders. Bibl Haematol 2015:31-40. [PMID: 6466284 DOI: 10.1159/000409642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Gielen M, Hageman G, Pachen D, Derom C, Vlietinck R, Zeegers MP. Placental telomere length decreases with gestational age and is influenced by parity: a study of third trimester live-born twins. Placenta 2014; 35:791-6. [PMID: 25096951 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Revised: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In contrast to the postnatal period, little is known about telomere length (TL) during prenatal life. The decrease in placental TL remains unknown, although intra uterine growth retardation and preeclampsia are associated with shorter placental TL. The aim of this study is to assess the decrease of placental TL during the third trimester of gestation and to explore the role of potential "growth influencing factors". METHODS The study sample consisted of 329 live-born twins from the East Flanders Prospective Twin Survey. TL was determined using a multiplex quantitative PCR method. Gestational age, sex, birth order, placental characteristics, parity, maternal and paternal age, diabetes, hypertension, smoking, alcohol use, and socio economic status (SES) were considered "growth influencing factors". Bivariable multilevel regression analysis with "growth influencing factors" was performed. RESULTS Placental TL ranged from 4.3 kbp to 84.4 kbp with a median of 10.8 kbp. Ln(TL) decreased in a linear fashion with an estimated TL decreasing from 13.98 kbp at 28 weeks to 10.56 kbp at 42 weeks. The regression coefficient of gestational age became smaller if considered together with SES (b = -0.017; p = 0.08) or diabetes (b = -0.018; p = 0.07) and bigger if considered together with parity (b = -0.022; p = 0.02), indicating that part of the association between gestational age and telomere length is explained by these three confounding factors. CONCLUSION Placental TL decreases during the third trimester of gestation of live-born twins with approximately 25% indicating that telomere shortening may play a role in aging of the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gielen
- NUTRIM School for Nutrition, Toxicology and Metabolism, The Netherlands; Department of Complex Genetics, Cluster of Genetics and Cell Biology, The Netherlands; Centre of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven & Department of Human Genetics, KU, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - G Hageman
- NUTRIM School for Nutrition, Toxicology and Metabolism, The Netherlands; Department of Toxicology, The Netherlands
| | - D Pachen
- NUTRIM School for Nutrition, Toxicology and Metabolism, The Netherlands; Department of Toxicology, The Netherlands
| | - C Derom
- Centre of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven & Department of Human Genetics, KU, Leuven, Belgium
| | - R Vlietinck
- Centre of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven & Department of Human Genetics, KU, Leuven, Belgium
| | - M P Zeegers
- NUTRIM School for Nutrition, Toxicology and Metabolism, The Netherlands; Department of Complex Genetics, Cluster of Genetics and Cell Biology, The Netherlands
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Broos S, Windelinckx A, De Mars G, Huygens W, Peeters MW, Aerssens J, Vlietinck R, Beunen GP, Thomis MA. Is PPARα intron 7 G/C polymorphism associated with muscle strength characteristics in nonathletic young men? Scand J Med Sci Sports 2011; 23:494-500. [PMID: 22092351 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0838.2011.01406.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), a ligand-dependent transcription factor, regulates fatty acid metabolism in heart and skeletal muscle. The intron 7 G/C polymorphism (rs4253778) has been associated with athletic performance. The rare C-allele was predominant in power athletes, whereas the G-allele was more frequent in endurance athletes. In the present study, we investigated the association between this polymorphism and strength characteristics in nonathletic, healthy young adults (n = 500; age 24.2 ± 4.4 years). Knee torque was measured during concentric knee flexion and extension movements at 60°/s, 120°/s, and 240°/s during 3, 25, and 5 repetitions, respectively. Also, resistance to muscle fatigue (i.e. work last 20% repetitions/work first 20% repetitions *100) was calculated. Differences in knee strength phenotypes between GG homozygous individuals and C-allele carriers were analyzed. The polymorphism did not influence the ability to produce isometric or dynamic knee flexor or extensor peak torque during static or dynamic conditions in this population (0.23 < P < 0.95). Similar results were found for the endurance ratio, a measure for resistance to muscle fatigue. In conclusion, the PPARα intron 7 G/C polymorphism does not seem to influence strength characteristics in a nonathletic population.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Broos
- Research Center for Exercise and Health, Department of Biomedical Kinesiology, FaBeR, K.U.Leuven, Heverlee, Belgium
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Peerbooms OLJ, Wichers M, Jacobs N, Kenis G, Derom C, Vlietinck R, Thiery E, van Os J, Rutten BPF. No major role for X-inactivation in variations of intelligence and behavioral problems at middle childhood. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2010; 153B:1311-7. [PMID: 20593382 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.31111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Although members of monozygotic (MZ) twin pairs are identical in genomic sequence, epigenetic mechanisms may occasion difference in gene expression and, consequently, twin discordance in complex traits. Recent work suggests that the epigenetic process of X-inactivation in female individuals may impact on intelligence and child behavioral problems. The timing of X-inactivation has been linked to chorionic splitting in MZ twins. Dichorionic monozygotic (DC-MZ) twinning, unlike monochorionic monozygotic (MC-MZ) twinning, occurs prior to the time of X-inactivation in female organisms. Therefore, the hypothesis of a causal role of X-inactivation in intelligence and behavioral problems can be analyzed by modeling the statistical interaction between sex and chorion type for within-pair differences in these traits in MZ twins. In this study, the effect of X-inactivation on childhood behavioral problems, measured with the CBCL, was studied in a sample of 324 MZ twin pairs from the EFPTS and the effect of X-inactivation on IQ was studied in a sample of 272 twin pairs from the same twin survey. Information on chorion type, gestational age, and birth weight was additionally collated. No significant statistical interaction was found between sex and chorion type, indicating that X-inactivation is not likely involved in variations in intelligence or behavioral problems in middle childhood. Further studies are required to replicate these findings and may explore the role of X-inactivation at different ages or at the extreme scores in the spectrum of intelligence and behavioral problems or may focus on other epigenetic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- O L J Peerbooms
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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De Mars G, Windelinckx A, Huygens W, Peeters MW, Beunen GP, Aerssens J, Vlietinck R, Thomis MAI. Genome-wide linkage scan for maximum and length-dependent knee muscle strength in young men: significant evidence for linkage at chromosome 14q24.3. J Med Genet 2008; 45:275-83. [PMID: 18178634 PMCID: PMC2564859 DOI: 10.1136/jmg.2007.055277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background: Maintenance of high muscular fitness is positively related to bone health, functionality in daily life and increasing insulin sensitivity, and negatively related to falls and fractures, morbidity and mortality. Heritability of muscle strength phenotypes ranges between 31% and 95%, but little is known about the identity of the genes underlying this complex trait. As a first attempt, this genome-wide linkage study aimed to identify chromosomal regions linked to muscle and bone cross-sectional area, isometric knee flexion and extension torque, and torque–length relationship for knee flexors and extensors. Methods: In total, 283 informative male siblings (17–36 years old), belonging to 105 families, were used to conduct a genome-wide SNP-based multipoint linkage analysis. Results: The strongest evidence for linkage was found for the torque–length relationship of the knee flexors at 14q24.3 (LOD = 4.09; p<10−5). Suggestive evidence for linkage was found at 14q32.2 (LOD = 3.00; P = 0.005) for muscle and bone cross-sectional area, at 2p24.2 (LOD = 2.57; p = 0.01) for isometric knee torque at 30° flexion, at 1q21.3, 2p23.3 and 18q11.2 (LOD = 2.33, 2.69 and 2.21; p<10−4 for all) for the torque–length relationship of the knee extensors and at 18p11.31 (LOD = 2.39; p = 0.0004) for muscle-mass adjusted isometric knee extension torque. Conclusions: We conclude that many small contributing genes rather than a few important genes are involved in causing variation in different underlying phenotypes of muscle strength. Furthermore, some overlap in promising genomic regions were identified among different strength phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- G De Mars
- Department of Biomedical Kinesiology, Research Center for Exercise and Health, Faculty of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Souren NY, Paulussen ADC, Loos RJF, Gielen M, Beunen G, Fagard R, Derom C, Vlietinck R, Zeegers MP. Anthropometry, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in the East Flanders Prospective Twin Survey: heritabilities. Diabetologia 2007; 50:2107-16. [PMID: 17694296 PMCID: PMC2039867 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-007-0784-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2007] [Accepted: 06/19/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS We determined the genetic contribution of 18 anthropometric and metabolic risk factors of type 2 diabetes using a young healthy twin population. METHODS Traits were measured in 240 monozygotic (MZ) and 138 dizygotic (DZ) twin pairs aged 18 to 34 years. Twins were recruited from the Belgian population-based East Flanders Prospective Twin Survey, which is characterised by its accurate zygosity determination and extensive collection of perinatal and placental data, including information on chorionicity. Heritability was estimated using structural equation modelling implemented in the Mx software package. RESULTS Intra-pair correlations of the anthropometric and metabolic characteristics did not differ between MZ monochorionic and MZ dichorionic pairs; consequently heritabilities were estimated using the classical twin approach. For body mass, BMI and fat mass, quantitative sex differences were observed; genetic variance explained 84, 85 and 81% of the total variation in men and 74, 75 and 70% in women, respectively. Heritability estimates of the waist-to-hip ratio, sum of four skinfold thicknesses and lean body mass were 70, 74 and 81%, respectively. The heritability estimates of fasting glucose, fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance and beta cell function, as well as insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 levels were 67, 49, 48, 62 and 47%, in that order. Finally, for total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, total cholesterol:HDL-cholesterol ratio, triacylglycerol, NEFA and leptin levels, genetic factors explained 75, 78, 76, 79, 58, 37 and 53% of the total variation, respectively. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION Genetic factors explain the greater part of the variation in traits related to obesity, glucose intolerance/insulin resistance and dyslipidaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. Y. Souren
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Nutrition and Toxicology Research Institute Maastricht (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - A. D. C. Paulussen
- Nutrition and Toxicology Research Institute Maastricht (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Division of Clinical Genetics, Academic Hospital Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Academic Hospital Maastricht, Division of Clinical Genetics, Joseph Bechlaan 113, 6229 GR Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - R. J. F. Loos
- Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Biomedical Kinesiology, Faculty of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - M. Gielen
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Nutrition and Toxicology Research Institute Maastricht (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - G. Beunen
- Department of Biomedical Kinesiology, Faculty of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - R. Fagard
- Hypertension and Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Unit, Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - C. Derom
- Department of Human Genetics, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - R. Vlietinck
- Department of Human Genetics, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - M. P. Zeegers
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Nutrition and Toxicology Research Institute Maastricht (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Unit of Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Koppen G, Verheyen G, Maes A, Van Gorp U, Schoeters G, Hond ED, Staessen J, Nawrot T, Roels HA, Vlietinck R, Verschaeve L. A battery of DNA effect biomarkers to evaluate environmental exposure of Flemish adolescents. J Appl Toxicol 2007; 27:238-46. [PMID: 17226746 DOI: 10.1002/jat.1174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The present paper deals with the evaluation of a battery of genotoxicity biomarkers in healthy Flemish adolescents and their relation with common pollutants occurring in their life environment. DNA damage as reflected by the comet assay appeared to be most sensitive to ozone (partial r(2) = 0.102, p < 0.00001), and to a lesser extent to ortho-cresol (partial r(2) = 0.055; p = 0.001) and 1-hydroxy-pyrene (1-OH-pyrene, partial r(2) = 0.031; p = 0.013). 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) was only related to ortho-cresol (r(2) = 0.069; p < 0.007). Interestingly, the comet assay results and urinary 8-OHdG concentrations were positively correlated with a Pearson r = 0.21 (p = 0.003, N = 200). Logistic regression models revealed significant relations between chromatid breaks and 1-OH-pyrene (relative risk (RR): 1.58; p = 0.008), and t,t-muconic acid (RR: 1.71; p = 0.014). There was no correlation between micronucleus formation or occurrence of chromosomal or chromatid breaks on the one hand and comet or 8-OHdG results on the other hand. Thus, in this study the comet assay on whole blood samples and urine 8-OHdG measurements especially appeared sensitive biomarkers for assessing the genetic effects of environmental pollutants to which adolescents may be exposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Koppen
- Center of Expertise in Environmental Toxicology, Flemish Institute of Technological Research (VITO), Mol, Belgium
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Lambrechts D, Devriendt K, Driscoll DA, Goldmuntz E, Gewillig M, Vlietinck R, Collen D, Carmeliet P. Low expression VEGF haplotype increases the risk for tetralogy of Fallot: a family based association study. J Med Genet 2006; 42:519-22. [PMID: 15937089 PMCID: PMC1736071 DOI: 10.1136/jmg.2004.026443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Jacobs N, Myin-Germeys I, Derom C, Vlietinck R, van Os J. Deconstructing the familiality of the emotive component of psychotic experiences in the general population. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2005; 112:394-401. [PMID: 16223428 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0447.2005.00588.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Genetic and environmental influences on variation in distress associated with subclinical psychotic experiences were examined. METHOD A total of 289 twin pairs filled in the Community Assessment of Psychic Experiences, a self-report instrument assessing subclinical positive and negative psychotic experiences and associated distress (distresspos and distressneg). Using structural equation modelling, univariate and bivariate models were fitted. RESULTS Univariate model fitting showed genetic and non-shared environmental influences on both distresspos and distressneg. Bivariate model fitting showed that 52% of the correlation between the two phenotypes (r=0.46) was because of shared genes and that non-shared environmental factors accounted for 48% of the correlation. CONCLUSION Liability to psychosis not only refers to the development of psychosis per se, but also to the liability to develop dysfunctional emotional appraisals. The emotive component of psychosis liability involves genetic transmission of a general, non-symptom-specific distress factor that may be a target for molecular genetic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Jacobs
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, South-Limburg Mental Health Research and Teaching Network, EURON, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Defoor J, Vanhees L, Martens K, Matthijs G, Van Vlerken A, Zielinska D, Schepers D, Vlietinck R, Fagard R. The CAREGENE study: ACE gene I/D polymorphism and effect of physical training on aerobic power in coronary artery disease. Heart 2005; 92:527-8. [PMID: 16085717 PMCID: PMC1860896 DOI: 10.1136/hrt.2004.054312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Huygens W, Thomis MAI, Peeters MW, Aerssens J, Vlietinck R, Beunen GP. Quantitative trait loci for human muscle strength: linkage analysis of myostatin pathway genes. Physiol Genomics 2005; 22:390-7. [PMID: 15914581 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00010.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study reports the results of a multipoint linkage study that aims to unravel the genetic basis of muscle strength and muscle mass in humans. Myostatin (GDF8) is known to be a strong inhibitor of muscle growth in animals. However, studies examining human myostatin polymorphisms are rare and are limited to the GDF8 gene itself. Here, the contribution to isometric and concentric knee strength of nine key proteins involved in the myostatin pathway is studied in a nonparametric multipoint linkage analysis by means of a variance components and regression method. A sample of 367 healthy young male siblings was phenotyped on an isokinetic dynamometer and genotyped for markers of the myostatin pathway genes. Three of the loci were found significantly linked with a quantitative trait locus (QTL) for knee muscle strength. First, D13S1303 showed replication of an explorative single-point linkage study with a maximum LOD score of 2.7 (P = 0.0002). Second, maximum LOD scores of 3.4 (P = 0.00004) and 3.3 (P = 0.00005) were observed for markers D12S1042 and D12S85, respectively, at 12q12-14. Finally, marker D12S78 showed an LOD score of 2.7 at 12q22-23. We conclude that several genes involved in the myostatin pathway, but not the myostatin gene itself, are important QTLs for human muscle strength. An additional set of valuable candidate genes that were not part of the myostatin pathway was found in the chromosome 12 and 13 genomic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Huygens
- Research Center for Exercise and Health, Faculty of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium
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Yarden J, Radojkovic D, De Boeck K, Macek M, Zemkova D, Vavrova V, Vlietinck R, Cassiman JJ, Cuppens H. Association of tumour necrosis factor alpha variants with the CF pulmonary phenotype. Thorax 2005; 60:320-5. [PMID: 15790988 PMCID: PMC1747362 DOI: 10.1136/thx.2004.025262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pulmonary phenotype in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), even in those with the same CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) genotype, is variable and must therefore be influenced by secondary genetic factors as well as environmental factors. Possible candidate genes that modulate the CF lung phenotype may include proinflammatory cytokines. One such protein is tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha), a member of the immune system. METHODS Three polymorphic loci in the promoter (-851c/t, -308g/a, -238g/a) and one polymorphic locus in intron 1 (+691g ins/del) of the TNFalpha gene were typed by a single nucleotide primer extension assay in CF patients and healthy controls. Spirometric data and first age of infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa were collected retrospectively from patients' medical records. RESULTS An association was found between the TNFalpha +691g ins/del polymorphic locus and severity of CF lung disease. Patients heterozygous for +691g ins and +691g del were more likely to have better pulmonary function (mean (SD) forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) 79.7 (12.8)% predicted) than patients homozygous for +691g ins (mean (SD) FEV1 67.5 (23.0)% predicted; p = 0.008, mean difference 12.2%, 95% CI 3.5 to 21.0). Also, patients heterozygous for +691g ins and +691g del were more likely to have an older first age of infection with P aeruginosa (mean (SD) 11.4 (6.0) years) than patients homozygous for +691g ins (mean (SD) 8.3 (4.6) years; p = 0.018, mean difference 3.1 years, 95% CI 0.5 to 5.6). An association was also found with the -851c/t polymorphic locus. In the group of patients with more severe FEV1% predicted, a higher proportion of patients were homozygous for the -851c allele than in the other group of patients (p = 0.04, likelihood ratio chi2, odds ratio = 2.4). CONCLUSION TNFalpha polymorphisms are associated with the severity of CF lung disease in Czech and Belgian patients with CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Yarden
- Department for Human Genetics, KULeuven, Herestraat 49, O&N6, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Pierik M, De Hertogh G, Vermeire S, Van Assche G, Van Eyken P, Joossens S, Claessens G, Vlietinck R, Rutgeerts P, Geboes K. Epithelioid granulomas, pattern recognition receptors, and phenotypes of Crohn's disease. Gut 2005; 54:223-7. [PMID: 15647186 PMCID: PMC1774832 DOI: 10.1136/gut.2004.042572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the gut. It is assumed that a defective interaction between the bacterial flora of the gut and the innate immune system plays a key role in the pathogenesis of the disease. This may lead to specific histological lesions. The epithelioid granuloma is particularly interesting in this regard as it is also observed in several bacterial infections of the gut. AIMS AND METHODS We hypothesised that genetic or environmental factors with a known influence on inflammation or immunity would lead to an increased prevalence of granulomas. Therefore, surgical specimens from 161 patients were evaluated for the presence of granulomas. Patients were genotyped for the three single nucleotide polymorphisms in caspase recruitment domain 15 (CARD15)/NOD2 associated with CD and for Asp299Gly in Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). RESULTS The overall prevalence of granulomas was 68.9%. We did not find a significant correlation between granulomas and TLR4 or CARD15 variants. The frequency of granulomas increased with more distal disease (63% small bowel, 72% right colon, 88% left colon, 90% rectum; p=0.01). Granulomas were more frequent in younger patients (odds ratio 0.95 (95% confidence interval 0.92-0.98) p=0.007). CONCLUSION In this study of 161 well documented CD patients, we found no significant association between CARD15 and TLR4 variants and granulomas. This finding seems to refute our initial hypothesis. However, it may be that additional factors are needed for granuloma development. Granulomas may develop only when specific bacterial components are present. Therefore, future research on granuloma pathogenesis should be orientated towards detection and identification of bacterial components in these lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Pierik
- Department of Gasteroenterology, University Hospitals, Katholieke Universiteit, Leuven, Belgium
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Yarden J, Radojkovic D, De Boeck K, Macek M, Zemkova D, Vavrova V, Vlietinck R, Cassiman JJ, Cuppens H. Polymorphisms in the mannose binding lectin gene affect the cystic fibrosis pulmonary phenotype. J Med Genet 2004; 41:629-33. [PMID: 15286159 PMCID: PMC1735860 DOI: 10.1136/jmg.2003.017947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Pierik M, Vermeire S, Steen KV, Joossens S, Claessens G, Vlietinck R, Rutgeerts P. Tumour necrosis factor-alpha receptor 1 and 2 polymorphisms in inflammatory bowel disease and their association with response to infliximab. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2004; 20:303-10. [PMID: 15274667 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2004.01946.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of tumour necrosis factor-alpha in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disorders is well-known and is underscored by the effectiveness of antitumour necrosis factor-alpha treatment. Tumour necrosis factor-alpha exerts its effect by binding TNFR1 and TNFR2, which genes map to inflammatory bowel disorders susceptibility loci. AIMS AND METHODS Since TNFR1 and TNFR2 are good candidate genes for inflammatory bowel disorders, we studied the functional TNFR2T587G and the TNFR1A36G mutation in 344 Crohn's disease and 152 ulcerative colitis patients and investigated the relation with disease phenotypes. An association with response to infliximab was evaluated in 166 Crohn's disease patients. RESULTS The TNFR2 587G allele was more frequent in ulcerative colitis compared with controls (P = 0.03). Both single nucleotide polymorphisms were negatively associated with smoking at diagnosis in Crohn's disease (TNFR1A36G odds ratio: 0.614, 95% confidence interval: 0.452, 0.99 and TNFR2T587G odds ratio: 0.572, 95% confidence interval: 0.820, 0.875). There was a positive association between pancolitis and the TNFR1A36G polymorphism in ulcerative colitis (odds ratio: 5.341, 95% confidence interval: 1.484, 19.39). The biological response to infliximab was lower in patients carrying TNFR1 36G (odds ratio: 0.47, 95% confidence interval: 0.234, 0.946). CONCLUSION The TNFR2 587G allele was more frequent in ulcerative colitis. Both single nucleotide polymorphisms were negatively associated with smoking in Crohn's disease. A relation between TNFR1A36G and pancolitis was found in ulcerative colitis. There was no clear effect of the polymorphisms on infliximab response although, the TNFR1 minor was associated with a lower response to infliximab.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use
- C-Reactive Protein/analysis
- Colitis, Ulcerative/drug therapy
- Colitis, Ulcerative/genetics
- Crohn Disease/drug therapy
- Crohn Disease/genetics
- Female
- Follow-Up Studies
- Gastrointestinal Agents/therapeutic use
- Genotype
- Humans
- Infliximab
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Mutation/genetics
- Polymorphism, Genetic/genetics
- Prospective Studies
- Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor/genetics
- Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor, Type I/genetics
- Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor, Type II/genetics
- Treatment Outcome
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Affiliation(s)
- M Pierik
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
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17
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Vermeire S, Rutgeerts P, Van Steen K, Joossens S, Claessens G, Pierik M, Peeters M, Vlietinck R. Genome wide scan in a Flemish inflammatory bowel disease population: support for the IBD4 locus, population heterogeneity, and epistasis. Gut 2004; 53:980-6. [PMID: 15194648 PMCID: PMC1774099 DOI: 10.1136/gut.2003.034033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Genome wide scans in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have indicated various susceptibility regions with replication of 16cen (IBD1), 12q (IBD2), 6p (IBD3), 14q11 (IBD4), and 3p21. As no linkage was previously found on IBD regions 3, 7, 12, and 16 in Flemish IBD families, a genome wide scan was performed to detect other susceptibility regions in this population. METHODS A cohort of 149 IBD affected relative pairs, all recruited from the Northern Flemish part of Belgium, were genotyped using microsatellite markers at 12 cM intervals, and analysed by Genehunter non-parametric linkage software. All families were further genotyped for the three main Crohn's disease associated variants in the NOD2/CARD15 gene. RESULTS Nominal evidence for linkage was observed on chromosomes 1 (D1S197: multipoint non-parametric linkage (NPL) score 2.57, p = 0.004; and at D1S305-D1S252: NPL 2.97, p = 0.001), 4q (D4S406: NPL 1.95, p = 0.03), 6q16 (D6S314: NPL 2.44, p = 0.007), 10p12 (D10S197: NPL 2.05, p = 0.02), 11q22 (D11S35-D11S927: NPL 1.95, p = 0.02) 14q11-12 (D14S80: NPL 2.41, p = 0.008), 20p12 (D20S192: NPL 2.7, p = 0.003), and Xq (DXS990: NPL 1.70, p = 0.04). A total of 51.4% of patients carried at least one NOD2/CARD15 variant. Furthermore, epistasis was observed between susceptibility regions 6q/10p and 20p/10p. CONCLUSION Genome scanning in a Flemish IBD population found nominal evidence for linkage on 1p, 4q, 10p12, and 14q11, overlapping with other genome scan results, with linkage on 14q11-12 supporting the IBD4 locus. The results further show that epistasis is contributing to the complex model of IBD and indicate that population heterogeneity is not to be underestimated. Finally, NOD2/CARD15 is clearly implicated in the Flemish IBD population.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Vermeire
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
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18
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Peeters MW, Thomis MA, Claessens AL, Loos RJF, Maes HHM, Lysens R, Vanden Eynde B, Vlietinck R, Beunen G. Heritability of somatotype components from early adolescence into young adulthood: a multivariate analysis on a longitudinal twin study. Ann Hum Biol 2003; 30:402-18. [PMID: 12881140 DOI: 10.1080/0301446031000102744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies with different designs have attempted to estimate the heritability of somatotype components. However they often ignore the covariation between the three components as well as possible sex and age effects. Shared environmental factors are not always controlled for. AIM This study explores the pattern of genetic and environmental determination of the variation in Heath-Carter somatotype components from early adolescence into young adulthood. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Data from the Leuven Longitudinal Twin Study, a longitudinal sample of Belgian same-aged twins followed from 10 to 18 years (n = 105 pairs, equally divided over five zygosity groups), is entered into a multivariate path analysis. Thus the covariation between the somatotype components is taken into account, gender heterogeneity can be tested, common environmental influences can be distinguished from genetic effects and age effects are controlled for. RESULTS Heritability estimates from 10 to 18 years range from 0.21 to 0.88, 0.46 to 0.76 and 0.16 to 0.73 for endomorphy, mesomorphy and ectomorphy in boys. In girls, heritability estimates range from 0.76 to 0.89, 0.36 to 0.57 and 0.57 to 0.76 for the respective somatotype components. Sex differences are significant from 14 years onwards. More than half of the variance in all somatotype components for both sexes at all time points is explained by factors the three components have in common. CONCLUSIONS The finding of substantial genetic influence on the variability of somatotype components is further supported. The need to consider somatotype as a whole is stressed as well as the need for sex- and perhaps age-specific analyses. Further multivariate analyses are needed to confirm the present findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- M W Peeters
- Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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19
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Loos RJF, Verhaeghe J, De Zegher F, Beunen G, Derom C, Fagard R, Mathieu C, Vlietinck R. Markers for cardiovascular disease in monozygotic twins discordant for the use of third-generation oral contraceptives. J Hum Hypertens 2003; 17:481-5. [PMID: 12821955 DOI: 10.1038/sj.jhh.1001578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Oral contraceptives (OC) modulate the risk for developing cardiovascular (CV) diseases. The aim of this study was to determine whether the use of third-generation OC has an impact on markers of CV disease in genetically identical women. We performed an intrapair comparison in 27 monozygotic twin pairs, one of whom was taking third-generation OC, whereas the other was not using OC. Biometric parameters were ascertained and conventional and 24-h ambulatory blood pressure (BP) was recorded. A fasting blood sample was taken for the measurement of glucose, insulin, proinsulin, lipids, and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1). Insulin resistance and beta-cell function were calculated by homeostasis model assessment (HOMA). A 24-h urine sample for cortisol was obtained. Third-generation OC use increased 24-h ambulatory systolic and diastolic BP by 5.2 and 3.9 mmHg, respectively (both P=0.0003). There was no effect on glucose, insulin and proinsulin levels, and on HOMA parameters, but the IGFBP-1 levels were markedly raised (P=0.0009). The lipid profile showed a 34% increase in triglyceride levels (P < 0.0001), but also a 7% increase in HDL-cholesterol levels (P=0.037). Use of third-generation OC impacts on CV disease markers in young-adult genetically identical women. Some changes are beneficial (increased HDL-cholesterol), whereas others may be deleterious (increased BP and triglyceride levels) or have unknown effects at this time (increased IGFBP-1 levels).
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Affiliation(s)
- R J F Loos
- Department of Sport and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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20
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Van Langendonck L, Claessens AL, Vlietinck R, Derom C, Beunen G. Influence of weight-bearing exercises on bone acquisition in prepubertal monozygotic female twins: a randomized controlled prospective study. Calcif Tissue Int 2003; 72:666-74. [PMID: 14562994 DOI: 10.1007/s00223-002-2030-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine whether high-impact exercises have an osteogenic effect in 21 prepubertal female monozygotic twins aged 8.7 (SD 0.7) years. Bone mineral density (aBMD), bone mineral content (BMC), bone area, and body composition were derived from DXA. Skeletal maturity was assessed by the Tanner-Whitehouse technique. Anthropometric dimensions (28 dimensions) were measured and also used to derive adiposity and muscularity indices, and information about physical activity was obtained by questionnaire. These measurements were taken before and after the exercise period. The exercise program consisted of high-impact exercises. During 9 months, one girl of each twin pair performed the exercises 3 times a week under supervision of a teacher while their sisters served as control group. At baseline there were no differences between the groups. After 9 months, exercisers (Ex) and controls (Con) had similar increases in height and weight. Significant lower adiposity was observed in the exercise group vs the control group. None of the bone indices differed significantly between the two groups. When the analyses were done for a subgroup of twin pairs (n = 12) who did not participate in high-impact sports during their leisure time, significant differences were obtained for aBMD and BMC of the proximal femur in favor of the exercise group. These results indicate that for prepubertal girls who are not involved in sport activities or who are only involved in low-impact sport activities this exercise program has an osteogenic effect on the proximal femur, but for girls who are already involved in high-impact sports this protocol does not have any additional effect on the bone status.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Van Langendonck
- Department of Sport and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, K.U.Leuven, Tervuursevest 101, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium.
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21
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Wichers MC, Purcell S, Danckaerts M, Derom C, Derom R, Vlietinck R, Van Os J. Prenatal life and post-natal psychopathology: evidence for negative gene-birth weight interaction. Psychol Med 2002; 32:1165-1174. [PMID: 12420886 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291702006372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many studies suggest that pregnancy and birth complications (PBCs) are environmental risk factors for child psychopathology. However, it is not known whether the effects of PBCs occur independently of genetic predisposition. The current study examined the possibility of gene-environment interaction in a twin design. METHOD The East Flanders Prospective Twin Survey prospectively records the births of all twin pairs born in East Flanders, Belgium. The current study included 760 twin pairs aged 6-17 years. Multilevel regression analysis was used to assess the effects of several PBCs collected around the time of birth. Using structural equation modelling, ACE models assuming additive genetic (A), shared environmental (C) and unique environmental (E) influences, were compared in order to examine whether the contribution of genetic factors to parent-rated child problem behaviour varied as a function of exposure to dichotomously and continuously defined PBCs. RESULTS A main independent effect of lower birth weight, corrected for gestational age (small for gestational age--SGA), on child problem behaviour was found. In addition, there was an interaction between genetic influence and SGA, in that being smaller for gestational age resulted in less influence of additive genetic factors on individual differences in problem behaviour. CONCLUSIONS Results are suggestive of negative gene-birth weight interaction. Children who are SGA are less sensitive to the genetic effects, and those with high genetic vulnerability are less sensitive to the effects of being SGA in bringing about post-natal mental health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Wichers
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, The Netherlands
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22
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Jacobs N, Rijsdijk F, Derom C, Danckaerts M, Thiery E, Derom R, Vlietinck R, van Os J. Child psychopathology and lower cognitive ability: a general population twin study of the causes of association. Mol Psychiatry 2002; 7:368-74. [PMID: 11986980 DOI: 10.1038/sj.mp.4000971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2001] [Revised: 07/05/2001] [Accepted: 07/10/2001] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Previous work has demonstrated associations between lower cognitive ability and childhood and adult non-psychotic psychopathology. As both cognitive ability (CA) and child psychopathology (CP) are influenced by genetic factors, one explanation for the association is that they are the pleiotropic manifestations of the same underlying genetic factors. The present paper examines three possible causes of the association: additive genetic factors, common environmental factors and individual-specific environmental factors. Three hundred and seventy-six twin pairs from the East Flanders Prospective Twin Survey were examined with the Child Behaviour Checklist and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised. The cross-twin within-variable, within-twin cross-variable and cross-twin cross-variable correlations were calculated. Using structural equation modelling, bivariate models were fitted. The best fitting model was chosen, based on likelihood and parsimony. The observed phenotypic correlation between CP and CA was -0.19 (95% CI: -0.09, -0.27), with genetic factors accounting for about 84% of the observed correlation. Bivariate model fitting quantified the genetic correlation between CP and CA at -0.27 (95% CI: -0.12, -0.42) and the individual-specific environmental correlation at -0.17 (95% CI: -0.03, -0.31). In children, three different genetic factors may exist: one that solely affects the liability to CP, one that has only an effect on CA and one that influences both CP and CA. While individual-specific environmental factors can influence the liability to both traits, our results suggest that most of the environmental factors that increase the risk of CP do not influence CA and vice versa.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Jacobs
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, PO Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
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23
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Koppen G, Covaci A, Van Cleuvenbergen R, Schepens P, Winneke G, Nelen V, van Larebeke N, Vlietinck R, Schoeters G. Persistent organochlorine pollutants in human serum of 50-65 years old women in the Flanders Environmental and Health Study (FLEHS). Part 1: Concentrations and regional differences. Chemosphere 2002; 48:811-25. [PMID: 12222775 DOI: 10.1016/s0045-6535(02)00111-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
In 1999, a campaign of the Flemish Ministry of Health, Belgium was set up to assess pollutant concentrations and related health effect biomarkers in humans living in two regions of Flanders. The study was called the 'Flemish Environment and Health Study' (FLEHS). One of the goals was to measure present concentrations of persistent organochlorine pollutants in a Flemish population and to compare values obtained from pooled and individual serum samples. Concentrations of selected organochlorine pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD) and furans (PCDF) were measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. TEQ values were also assessed by Chemical-Activated LUciferase gene eXpression (CALUX) bioassay. The study population consisted of 200 women between 50 and 65 years living in two areas of Flanders, Belgium. Because of the large volumes serum needed for all measurements, the concentrations of organochlorines were measured in 47 pooled serum samples originating from these women. The concentrations of the indicator PCBs (359.8 ng/g fat) and organochlorine pesticides (hexachlorobenzene, p,p'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene, p,p'-dichlorodiphenyl-trichloroethane, lindane and pentachlorophenol), were comparable to those found in other European countries. The concentrations of PCDD/PCDFs showed another picture. With a median value of 48 pg WHO-TEQ/g fat, the women had 2-fold higher levels than a comparable age group from Germany examined in 1996. The mean total WHO-TEQ including PCDD/F, non-ortho and mono-ortho PCBs was 72.7 pg WHO-TEQ/g fat, whereas the CALUX-TEQ mean value was only 35.0 pg TEQ/g fat. In order to assess the pooling procedure, indicator PCBs and CALUX-TEQs were measured in all 200 individuals that were integrated in the pools. The measured values were comparable to the pool results: 390.0 ng/g fat and 41.6 pg TEQ/g fat respectively. It was concluded that pooling of serum samples offers the possibility to measure exposure in the whole study population on a more cost-effective way. However, because of statistical power loss and no possibility of confounder adjustment, pooling is not the most effective way to study regional differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Koppen
- Flemish Institute of Technological Research (VITO), Center of Expertise in Environmental Toxicology and Environmental Measurements, Mol, Belgium
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Vinck WJ, Fagard RH, Vlietinck R, Lijnen P. Heritability of plasma renin activity and plasma concentration of angiotensinogen and angiotensin-converting enzyme. J Hum Hypertens 2002; 16:417-22. [PMID: 12037697 DOI: 10.1038/sj.jhh.1001410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2001] [Revised: 02/14/2002] [Accepted: 02/18/2002] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the present investigation was to describe the relative impact of genes and environment on the variance of the plasma constituents of the renin angiotensin system. We ascertained 56 male and 80 female adult same-sex twin pairs from the Flemish population. Plasma renin activity (PRA), the concentration of angiotensinogen (AGT) and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) were measured, and path analysis was applied, after transformation toward normality. For PRA and AGT significant heritability was only detected in the male subgroup, with heritability estimates of 66% and 90%, respectively. Angiotensin-converting enzyme concentration was determined by additive genes for 43% of its variance, by shared environmental influences for 42%, and by specific environmental influences for 15%. The high heritability found for AGT is compatible with the results of earlier studies linking the M235T polymorphism of the angiotensinogen gene to plasma AGT levels. For PRA, we are the first to show significant heritability. Our results regarding ACE confirm the findings in other populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- W J Vinck
- Hypertension and Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Unit, Department of Molecular and Cardiovascular Research, University of Leuven, Belgium.
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25
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Loos RJ, Fagard R, Derom C, Vlietinck R, Beunen G. BIRTH WEIGHT AND THE LIPOPROTEIN/TRIGLYCERIDE METABOLISM IN YOUNG ADULTS ?? A PROSPECTIVE TWIN STUDY. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2002. [DOI: 10.1097/00005768-200205001-01348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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26
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Huygens W, Claessens AL, Thomis M, Loos R, Van Langendonck L, Peeters M, Philippaerts R, Meynaerts E, Vlietinck R, Beunen G. Body composition estimations by BIA versus anthropometric equations in body builders and other power athletes. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2002; 42:45-55. [PMID: 11832874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Two main questions are stated: 1) are BIA and anthropometric equations accurate in estimating body composition in male power athletes and more specifically in body builders and 2) is there a difference in body composition when body builders are compared to weight and power lifters? METHODS EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN this is a descriptive, comparative study on a selected sample of power athletes. PARTICIPANTS 49 Belgian elite and sub-top male power athletes (34 body builders and 15 weight and power lifters) were included in this sample. More than 70% was in preparation of competition at time of data collection. MEASURES an extended set of anthropometric measures was taken. Body composition was estimated by BIA (Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis) and by regression equations of skinfolds. Somatotype and muscle+bone areas were calculated. Factor analysis on all anthropometric measures was carried out to determine the body structure of the athletes. RESULTS Compared to external visual criteria, the equations of Durnin and Womersley and Lohman (skinfolds) and the Guo-equation (BIA) were the only equations that could accurately estimate the body composition for this specific group of athletes. However, the sum of skinfolds attains the most accurate estimate of subcutaneous fatness. Body builders have significantly (p<0.01) larger arm and thigh circumferences and are more mesomorfic than the other power athletes (5.9 vs 3.8). CONCLUSIONS This study shows that to estimate body composition in extreme power athletes BIA is not as accurate as compared to anthropometric equations. Moreover, the sum of a larger set of skinfolds is preferred to anthropometric prediction equations. In addition, body builders are more muscular and leaner than other power athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Huygens
- Department of Sport and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Katholieke Universiteit, Leuven, Belgium
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Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated whether low birth weight constitutes a causal risk factor for child problem behavior, using a variation of the co-twin control method. METHODS In a representative sample of 745 twin pairs (monozygotic: 324 pairs), birth weight was recorded at birth and child problem behavior at mean age 10 years was measured with the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL). RESULTS Lower birth weight was a continuous risk factor for later child problem behavior (adjusted regression coefficient over units of 500 g: beta = -.15, p =.046), and greater levels of within-pair CBCL discordance did not result in a reduced effect size. Greater within-pair birth weight discordance was associated with greater within-pair CBCL score discordance (beta =.35, p <.001). This latter effect was similar in monozygotic (beta =.34, p =.005) and dizygotic twins (beta =.37, p =.003). CONCLUSIONS The fact that (1) the effect size of the association between low birth weight and child problem behavior was not reduced in pairs with greater levels of CBCL discordance, and (2) similar effect sizes were found in monozygotic and dizygotic twins for the within-pair association between birth weight discordance and CBCL score discordance, suggests that the observed relationship between low birth weight and child problem behavior is not due to a shared environmental or genetic variable that influences both characteristics. Lower birth weight is a causal risk factor for child problem behavior, the effects of which may well extend into adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- J van Os
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, The Netherlands
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28
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The intrauterine environment may be a critical period for the development of hypertension in later life. In the present study, we applied the twin approach to estimate the contribution of genetic and environmental causes that may underlie the birth weight-adult blood pressure association. METHODS AND RESULTS Birth weights of 418 twin pairs were obtained prospectively, and resting and 24-hour ambulatory blood pressures were obtained at the age of 18 to 34 years. In women, resting systolic blood pressure decreased 4.27 mm Hg (P<0.001) and diastolic pressure decreased 2.18 mm Hg (P=0.02) per kilogram increase in birth weight. Similar associations were found for ambulatory measurements, although these were somewhat less pronounced. Pair-wise analysis confirmed these findings: twin pairs of whom both members had a low birth weight (<2500 g) had a higher systolic blood pressure compared with twins who both had a high birth weight (>/=2500 g). Systolic blood pressure of the lightest of a low-birth-weight pair was >/=4.7 mm Hg (P=0.02) higher and of the heaviest >/=2.4 mm Hg higher (P=0.2) than similar measurements in high-birth-weight pairs. Intrapair differences in blood pressure between the lightest and the heaviest at birth were only present in low-birth-weight pairs. The results were similar for monozygotic and dizygotic twin pairs. In men, no associations were found between birth weight and adult blood pressure. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that prenatal programming of adult blood pressure occurs at least in female twins. We suggest that particularly maternal influences, experienced by both twin members, may underlie the association between birth weight and blood pressure. The fetoplacental unit seems to influence blood pressure only when both fetuses had low birth weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Loos
- Faculty of Medicine, Center for Human Genetics, Hypertension and Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Unit, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Department of Sport and Movement Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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29
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Loos RJ, Beunen G, Fagard R, Derom C, Vlietinck R. The influence of zygosity and chorion type on fat distribution in young adult twins consequences for twin studies. Twin Res 2001; 4:356-64. [PMID: 11869489 DOI: 10.1375/1369052012524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
An adverse intra-uterine environment has been associated with abdominal fat distribution in singletons. Twins often have a low birth weight and a short gestation. Therefore, they may have an increased risk to develop abdominal obesity. Furthermore, monozygotic monochorionic twins (MZ MC) have a larger intra-pair birth weight difference compared to monozygotic dichorionic twins (MZ DC). If adult anthropometry is programmed in utero, this may affect the intra-pair correlations in adulthood and, consequently, also the results from the classic twin method to estimate genetic and environmental influences. In the present study, we compared the absolute values, the intra-pair differences, and the intra-pair correlations of body mass, height, BMI, and abdominal fat distribution of 424 MZ MC, MZ DC and dizygotic (DZ) twin pairs (aged 18-34 yrs). DZ, MZ DC and MZ MC twins did not differ for most anthropometric characteristics. Only MZ women tended (p = 0.03) to accumulate more abdominal fat compared to DZ twins. Overall, the contribution of zygosity and chorion type to adult anthropometry was rather low (< or = 1.7%). Although the intra-pair birth weight difference of MZ MC pairs (10.5% in men, 12.3% in women) was significantly larger compared to that of MZ DC pairs (6.9% and 9.2% resp.), the intra-pair differences in adult anthropometry were similar for both MZ twin types. Also the intra-pair correlations of MZ MC and MZ DC pairs were strikingly alike, suggesting no significant influence of the prenatal environment on adult concordance. In conclusion, the substantial difference in the prenatal environment of MZ MC and MZ DC twins did not result in a difference in intra-pair concordance of adult anthropometry and fat distribution. Therefore, we suggest that the chorion type of MZ twins does not bias the twin design and the estimation of the genetic contribution to adult anthropometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Loos
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Sport and Movement Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit, Leuven, Belgium.
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Loos RJ, Beunen G, Fagard R, Derom C, Vlietinck R. Birth weight and body composition in young adult men--a prospective twin study. Int J Obes (Lond) 2001; 25:1537-45. [PMID: 11673778 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ijo.0801743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2000] [Revised: 03/16/2001] [Accepted: 03/28/2001] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the association between birth weight and adult body composition in twins, controlling for maternal and genetic influences. DESIGN Twins were randomly selected from the East Flanders Prospective Twin Survey, a population-based historic twin cohort. SUBJECTS Male members of 229 twin pairs between 18 and 34 y of age who participated in the Prenatal Programming Twin Study. MEASUREMENTS Adult body mass, height, BMI, lean body mass, sum of skinfolds and waist-to-hip-ratio. Lean body mass, sum of skinfolds and waist-to-hip-ratio were also adjusted for body mass. Intra-pair difference in adult anthropometric measures between the heaviest and the lightest twin at birth. RESULTS Per kg increase in birth weight, body mass (4.2 kg), height (3.3 cm), lean body mass (3.1 kg) and to a lesser extent BMI (0.49 kg/m(2)) increased, whereas waist-to-hip-ratio (-1.4%) and sum of skinfolds (-0.11 s.d.) decreased, when adjusted for body mass. In a pair-wise analysis, the heavier twin at birth was taller and heavier as an adult, but, when adjusted for body mass, he had a lower waist-to-hip-ratio, less subcutaneous fat, and more lean body mass, compared to his lighter sib. Intra-pair difference in body composition was associated with intra-pair birth weight difference in monozygotic and dizygotic twins. CONCLUSIONS An adverse intra-uterine environment, as measured by birth weight, is associated with more subcutaneous and abdominal fat and less lean body mass in adulthood. This association is independent of maternal and genetic influences. However, we cannot exclude the existence of genes that act on both birth weight and adult body composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Loos
- Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Department of Sport and Movement Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the relation of umbilical cord insertion and fusion of placentas with birthweight in monozygotic monochorionic, monozygotic dichorionic, and dizygotic twins. DESIGN A prospective population study. POPULATION 4529 liveborn twin pairs whose birthweight was recorded, placentas were examined, and site of umbilical cord insertion was determined after delivery. RESULTS Infants with a peripheral cord insertion weighed 150g less (P < 0.001) than infants with a central cord insertion. Dizygotic infants had a significantly (P < 0.001) higher incidence of central cord insertion (82%) than monozygotic dichorionic (65%) and monozygotic monochorionic (53%) infants. Monozygotic dichorionic infants with fused placentas and a peripheral cord insertion weighed on average 300g less (P < 0.01) than infants with separate placentas and a central cord insertion. In dizygotic infants, fusion of the placentas did not affect birthweight. CONCLUSIONS Umbilical cord insertion is associated with birthweight in all types of twins. Fusion of the placentas only affects the birthweight of monozygotic dichorionic, not that of dizygotic infants. This might be due to the greater proximity of implantation of monozygotic dichorionic twins. Dizygotic twins weighed more than monozygotic twins only when placentas were fused and cord insertion was peripheral. Hence, the difference between the mean birthweights of dizygotic, monozygotic dichorionic, and monozygotic monochorionic infants may originate from the least favourable antenatal situation, namely fused placentas with a peripheral cord insertion, which occurs most frequently in monozygotic twins.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Loos
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre for Human Genetics, Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium
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32
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Abstract
Despite the longer gestation of girls, their birthweight is less than that of boys. Because unlike-sex twins provide a natural situation in which to investigate the influence of sex on gestation, we compared birthweight and gestation of 1929 same-sex and unlike-sex dizygotic pairs. Length of gestation in unlike-sex pairs was similar to that of female same-sex pairs, and significantly (0.4 weeks; p=0.02) longer than that of male same-sex pairs. Birthweight of girls from unlike-sex pairs was similar to that of girls from same-sex pairs, but boys from unlike-sex pairs weighed 78 g more than boys from same-sex pairs (p=0.001). These data show that in unlike-sex pairs it is the girl that prolongs gestation for her brother, resulting in a higher birthweight than that of same-sex boys.
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Carels C, Van Cauwenberghe N, Savoye I, Willems G, Loos R, Derom C, Vlietinck R. A quantitative genetic study of cephalometric variables in twins. Clin Orthod Res 2001; 4:130-40. [PMID: 11553097 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0544.2001.040303.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed at determining the relative genetic and environmental impact on a number of well-known cephalometric variables in twins. In order to find a clue in the heritability pattern of some dentofacial characteristics and on the expected limits of the therapeutic impact on the dentofacial subparts they are representing. Cephalograms were collected from 33 monozygotic and 46 dizygotic twins, who did not undergo any orthodontic treatment. Nineteen linear and four angular variables were selected all representing a different definite subpart of the dentofacial complex. The reproducibility of the measurement of most of the linear variables was very high. A genetic analysis using model fitting and path analysis was carried out. First, data were checked on the fulfilment of the conditions for genetic analysis in twins reared together. The results show that the genetic determination is significantly higher for vertical (72%) than for horizontal (61%) variables. As far as the genetic component is concerned, all variables selected seem to be inherited by additive genes, except for mandibular body length, which was determined by dominant alleles. Sex differences in genetic determination were found for the anterior face height, showing a significantly higher genetic component for boys (91%) than for girls (68%). For the angular measurements, no genetic influence was found: only environmental influences common to both members of each pair could be demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Carels
- Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Medicine, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium; Center for Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium
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Wichers MC, van Os J, Danckaerts M, Van Gestel S, Derom C, Vlietinck R. Associations between nonshared environment and child problem behaviour. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2001; 36:319-23. [PMID: 11605999 DOI: 10.1007/s001270170035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Twin studies suggest that environmental effects on the development of child psychopathology largely involve nonshared environmental processes. However, the influence of the nonshared environment may have been overestimated, as the relationship between environment and behaviour may be genetically mediated. A direct measure of the nonshared environment (using the Sibling Inventory of Differential Experience - SIDE) was investigated in relation to child psychopathology, and tested for possible genetic mediation. METHOD Parent-rated versions of the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL) and the SIDE were collected in 760 twin pairs aged 6-17 years. Multilevel regression analysis was used to assess the influence of SIDE scores on CBCL total problem scores, internalising symptoms, externalising symptoms and depressive symptom scores. Genetic mediation was assessed by examining interaction with zygosity in the association between SIDE scores and differences in CBCL scores (absence of interaction indicating no genetic mediation). RESULTS The results revealed significant associations between SIDE dimensions on the one hand, and degree of internalising, externalising, depression and total symptom scores on the other. However, the effects were non-linear, and especially apparent for the extremes of differential environmental experience within twin pairs. Overall, there was no strong evidence for genetic mediation of associations between nonshared environment and symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Direct, genetically unconfounded but skewed relationships may exist between nonshared environment on the one hand and behavioural differences on the other, although longitudinal data are necessary to determine the direction of effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Wichers
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, The Netherlands
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35
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Eerens K, Vlietinck R, Heidbüchel K, Van Olmen A, Derom C, Willems G, Carels C. Hypodontia and tooth formation in groups of children with cleft, siblings without cleft, and nonrelated controls. Cleft Palate Craniofac J 2001; 38:374-8. [PMID: 11420017 DOI: 10.1597/1545-1569_2001_038_0374_hatfig_2.0.co_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the occurrence of hypodontia, dental age, and asymmetric dental development in children with cleft with their siblings and a nonsibling control group. SUBJECTS The sample consisted of 54 children with cleft (aged 4.2 to 13.1 years), who had at least one sibling available for an orthopantomogram, 63 siblings without cleft (aged 4 to 14.9 years) and 250 controls without cleft (aged between 4 and 14.9 years). METHOD Hypodontia, dental age, and asymmetric dental development were assessed on panoramic radiographs of the children with cleft, the siblings without cleft, and the control children without cleft. RESULTS Both the cleft (p <.001) and the sibling group (p <.05) showed a significantly higher frequency of hypodontia and a significantly higher occurrence (cleft p <.01 and sibling group p <.001) of asymmetric dental development, compared with the control group. Only a small, but insignificant, delay in dental development could be found in the cleft and the sibling group. CONCLUSIONS; The cleft subjects with siblings showed a significantly higher occurrence of hypodontia and asymmetric dental development than the noncleft control group. This may suggest a genetic component for the occurrence of hypodontia and asymmetric dental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Eerens
- Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Oral Pathology and Maxillofacial Surgery, Catholic University of Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 7, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Bustami R, Lesaffre E, Molenberghs G, Loos R, Danckaerts M, Vlietinck R. Modelling bivariate ordinal responses smoothly with examples from ophthalmology and genetics. Stat Med 2001; 20:1825-42. [PMID: 11406844 DOI: 10.1002/sim.793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
A non-parametric implementation of the bivariate Dale model (BDM) is presented as an extension of the generalized additive model (GAM) of Hastie and Tibshirani. The original BDM is an example of a bivariate generalized linear model. In this paper smoothing is introduced on the marginal as well as on the association level. Our non-parametric procedure can be used as a diagnostic tool for identifying parametric transformations of the covariates in the linear BDM, hence it also provides a kind of goodness-of-fit test for a bivariate generalized linear model. Cubic smoothing spline functions for the covariates are estimated by maximizing a penalized version of the log-likelihood. The method is applied to two studies. The first study is the classical Wisconsin Epidemiologic Study of Diabetic Retinopathy. The second study is a twin study, where the association between the elements of twin pairs is of primary interest. The results show that smoothing on the association level can give a significant improvement to the model fit.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Bustami
- Biostatistical Center, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Abstract
Accurate determination of zygosity and chorionicity is essential in all multiple maternities. The parents and the multiples themselves ask it. It is of medical importance and now considered as a prerequisite in several domains of twin research, especially when perinatal data are analysed. It helps the multiples and their parents and teachers to ascertain identity. The methods are briefly described and a plea is made to obstetricians and paediatricians to use them systematically at the time of birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Derom
- Centre for Human Genetics, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of the present investigation was to examine the age-dependency of blood pressure heritability by use of the twin method in different age groups. DESIGN In 272 (150 monozygous and 122 dizygous) twin pairs, aged 18 to 76 years, both conventional and ambulatory blood pressure were measured. After correction for possible confounders, model fitting was used to estimate heritability and 95% confidence limits in three age groups of similar size, i.e. 18-29, 30-39 and > or = 40 years. RESULTS Heritability estimates were significant in each age group, ranging from 35 to 67% for the various blood pressure measurements. The estimates tended to decrease with increasing age, except for conventional diastolic blood pressure, but the intergroup differences did not reach statistical significance, despite adequate power. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, blood pressure heritability is significant in various age groups, but does not substantially change with advancing age. Twin analysis does not indicate that models for blood pressure regulation in various age groups should take into account the possibility of age-related changes in the expression of relevant genes, in the presence of relevant environmental agents, or in the susceptibility to the latter (gene-environment interaction).
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Affiliation(s)
- W J Vinck
- Department of Molecular and Cardiovascular Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Leuven, Belgium.
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Rector A, Vermeire S, Thoelen I, Keyaerts E, Struyf F, Vlietinck R, Rutgeerts P, Van Ranst M. Analysis of the CC chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) delta-32 polymorphism in inflammatory bowel disease. Hum Genet 2001; 108:190-3. [PMID: 11354628 DOI: 10.1007/s004390100462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are complex multifactorial traits involving both environmental and genetic factors. Recent studies have shown the important role of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, including RANTES, in IBD. RANTES is the natural ligand for the CC-chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5). The chromosomal location of the CCR5 gene on 3p21 coincides with an IBD-susceptibility locus identified by genome-wide scanning. A 32-bp deletion (A32) in the CCR5 gene results in a nonfunctional receptor and is found with high frequency in Caucasians. In this study, we investigated the presence of the CCR5delta32 allele in a large cohort of IBD patients and in a healthy control population. Blood samples were obtained from 538 unselected IBD cases (433 unrelated IBD patients: 289 CD, 142 UC, 2 indeterminate colitis; 105 affected first-degree relatives) and 135 unaffected first-degree family members. Of the IBD patients, 36% had familial IBD with at least two members being affected. There were no significant differences in the CCR5delta32 mutation frequency between IBD patients and healthy controls, nor between CD and UC patients. There was no correlation between the CCR5delta32 genotype and the age at IBD-diagnosis, the frequency of surgical intervention, or disease localization. Only the association between CCR5delta32 homozygosity and the presence of anal lesions in CD patients was statistically significant (P=0.007). Analysis by the transmission/disequilibrium test showed no significant transmission distortion to the probands or their clinically silent siblings. Based on these results, it is unlikely that the CCR5delta32 allele is an important marker for predisposition to IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rector
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Leuven, Belgium
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Staessen JA, Nawrot T, Hond ED, Thijs L, Fagard R, Hoppenbrouwers K, Koppen G, Nelen V, Schoeters G, Vanderschueren D, Van Hecke E, Verschaeve L, Vlietinck R, Roels HA. Renal function, cytogenetic measurements, and sexual development in adolescents in relation to environmental pollutants: a feasibility study of biomarkers. Lancet 2001; 357:1660-9. [PMID: 11425371 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(00)04822-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human exposure to chemicals is normally monitored by measurement of environmental pollutants in external media. We investigated whether biomarkers in adolescents can show exposure to, and health effects of, common environmental pollutants. METHODS We recruited 200 17-year-old adolescents (120 girls) from a rural control area and from two suburbs polluted by a lead smelter and two waste incinerators. We measured biomarkers of exposure and of effect in blood and urine samples, and obtained questionnaire data. School doctors measured testicular volume and staged sexual maturation. FINDINGS Internal exposure was mostly within current standards. Concentrations of lead and cadmium in blood, PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and dioxin-like compounds in serum samples, and metabolites of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in urine were higher in one or both suburbs than in the control area. Children who lived near the waste incinerators matured sexually at an older age than others, and testicular volume was smaller in boys from the suburbs than in controls. Biomarkers of glomerular or tubular renal dysfunction in individuals were positively correlated with blood lead. Biomarkers of DNA damage were positively correlated with urinary metabolites of PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) and VOCs. Interpretation Biomarkers can be used to detect environmental exposure to pollutants and measure their biological effects before overt disease develops. Our findings suggest that current environmental standards are insufficient to avoid measurable biological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Staessen
- Studiecoördinatiecentrum, Hypertensie en Cardiovasculaire Revalidatie Eenheid, Departement Moleculair en Cardiovasculair Onderzoek, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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Abstract
This study investigates the basic assumption of homogeneity of monozygotic (MZ) twins: are there differences according to the timing of the zygotic splitting, early in dichorionic (DC) and later in monochorionic (MC) pairs? We assessed the IQ of 451 same-sexed twin pairs of known zygosity and chorion type with the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R). The variances of within-pair differences were compared for monochorionic (MC), dichorionic monozygotic (DC-MZ) and dizygotic same-sexed (DZ) twins and structural equation modeling was applied. High heritability estimates were found for almost all subscales and IQ-scores. A significant effect of chorion type was found: the MC twins resembled each other more than the DC-MZ twins on the subscales Arithmetic and Vocabulary. The effect accounts for respectively 14% and 10% of the total variance.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Jacobs
- Center for Human Genetics, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium
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Vermeire S, Satsangi J, Peeters M, Parkes M, Jewell DP, Vlietinck R, Rutgeerts P. Evidence for inflammatory bowel disease of a susceptibility locus on the X chromosome. Gastroenterology 2001; 120:834-40. [PMID: 11231937 DOI: 10.1053/gast.2001.22453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The technique of genomewide scanning has been applied successfully in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A number of putative susceptibility loci have been identified through genomewide searches including replicated regions of linkage on chromosomes 12, 16, 6 (the HLA region), and 14. We have investigated the contribution of the X chromosome in 145 Belgian affected relative pairs. METHODS In the first stage of the study, 79 (68 CD, 11 mixed) sibling pairs were genotyped at 12 microsatellite markers covering the X chromosome. In the second stage, 10 additional markers in the X-pericentromeric region were studied in the families involved in stage 1 together with 62 additional families (52 sibling pairs, 14 second-degree relative pairs). RESULTS In the first stage, evidence for linkage was found over a 30-cM pericentromeric region spanning dXs991, dXs990, and dXs8096 (multipoint maximum LOD score in the CD subgroup, 2.5; P = 0.0003). The remainder of the X chromosome was excluded (exclusion under LOD-2) for a locus with lambda(s) = 2. Fine mapping in the second stage confirmed linkage, and narrowed and shifted the linked region to Xq21.3 around dXs1203 (nonparametric linkage [NPL], 2.90; P = 0.0017). The NPL-1 interval around the linkage peak comprises 19.7 cM. CONCLUSIONS These data provide suggestive evidence for the presence and chromosomal location of an X-linked susceptibility gene in IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Vermeire
- Gastroenterology Unit, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
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van Larebeke N, Hens L, Schepens P, Covaci A, Baeyens J, Everaert K, Bernheim JL, Vlietinck R, De Poorter G. The Belgian PCB and dioxin incident of January-June 1999: exposure data and potential impact on health. Environ Health Perspect 2001; 109:265-73. [PMID: 11333188 PMCID: PMC1240245 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.01109265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
In January 1999, 500 tons of feed contaminated with approximately 50 kg of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and 1 g of dioxins were distributed to animal farms in Belgium, and to a lesser extent in the Netherlands, France, and Germany. This study was based on 20,491 samples collected in the database of the Belgian federal ministries from animal feed, cattle, pork, poultry, eggs, milk, and various fat-containing food items analyzed for their PCB and/or dioxin content. Dioxin measurements showed a clear predominance of polychlorinated dibenzofuran over polychlorinated dibenzodioxin congeners, a dioxin/PCB ratio of approximately 1:50,000 and a PCB fingerprint resembling that of an Aroclor mixture, thus confirming contamination by transformer oil rather than by other environmental sources. In this case the PCBs contribute significantly more to toxic equivalents (TEQ) than dioxins. The respective means +/- SDs and the maximum concentrations of dioxin (expressed in TEQ) and PCB observed per gram of fat in contaminated food were 170.3 +/- 487.7 pg, 2613.4 pg, 240.7 +/- 2036.9 ng, and 51059.0 ng in chicken; 1.9 +/- 0.8 pg, 4.3 pg, 34.2 +/- 30.5 ng, and 314.0 ng in milk; and 32.0 +/- 104.4 pg, 713.3 pg, 392.7 +/- 2883.5 ng, and 46000.0 ng in eggs. Assuming that as a consequence of this incident between 10 and 15 kg PCBs and from 200 to 300 mg dioxins were ingested by 10 million Belgians, the mean intake per kilogram of body weight is calculated to maximally 25,000 ng PCBs and 500 pg international TEQ dioxins. Estimates of the total number of cancers resulting from this incident range between 40 and 8,000. Neurotoxic and behavioral effects in neonates are also to be expected but cannot be quantified. Because food items differed widely (more than 50-fold) in the ratio of PCBs to dioxins, other significant sources of contamination and a high background contamination are likely to contribute substantially to the exposure of the Belgian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- N van Larebeke
- Department of Radiotherapy, Nuclear Medicine and Experimental Cancerology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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45
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Vermeire S, Joossens S, Peeters M, Monsuur F, Marien G, Bossuyt X, Groenen P, Vlietinck R, Rutgeerts P. Comparative study of ASCA (Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody) assays in inflammatory bowel disease. Gastroenterology 2001; 120:827-33. [PMID: 11231936 DOI: 10.1053/gast.2001.22546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody (ASCA) is a serologic marker associated with Crohn's disease (CD). Although there is still discussion on its clinical value, several companies each promote their own ASCA assay to be used in the gastroenterologist's practice at considerable expense. The aim of this study was to determine whether different ASCA assays agree sufficiently well for the results to be used interchangeably. METHODS Blood obtained from a large cohort of IBD patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD; 100 with CD, 100 with ulcerative colitis [UC]) and 178 controls (100 healthy blood donors and 78 patients with non-IBD diarrheal illnesses) was studied with 4 different ASCA assays. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value were compared. Agreement between assays was evaluated. RESULTS Sensitivity of ASCA for CD ranged between 41% and 76%. Sensitivity was inversely related to specificity and positive predictive value. Results correlated well overall (range = 0.54-0.90) and the different ROC curves showed good agreement. When recalculated cutoff points were used, interchangeability increased. However, large differences were seen when absolute values were compared. CONCLUSIONS A large range in sensitivities and specificities of ASCA for CD is seen with different ASCA assays, mainly as a consequence of the cutoff value chosen for each individual assay. Although agreement between and within assays is good, caution is important when absolute values are used. Standardization of ASCA measurements is greatly needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Vermeire
- Gastroenterology Unit, UZ Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
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46
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Peeters M, Joossens S, Vermeire S, Vlietinck R, Bossuyt X, Rutgeerts P. Diagnostic value of anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae and antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies in inflammatory bowel disease. Am J Gastroenterol 2001; 96:730-4. [PMID: 11280542 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2001.03613.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 247] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Correct diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), especially the differentiation between Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), is highly important toward treatment and prognosis. Serological markers are noninvasive diagnostic tools that could be of value in differentiating CD from UC, in cases of indeterminate colitis, and in the identification of subgroups in IBD. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic (pANCA) and anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies (ASCA) for IBD. METHODS ASCA and pANCA were studied in a large cohort of consecutive IBD patients (n = 582: 407 CD, 147 UC, and 28 indeterminate colitis), patients with non-IBD diarrheal illnesses (n = 74), and healthy controls (n = 157). An indirect immunofluorescence technique and a standardized ELISA were performed for detection of pANCA and ASCA, respectively. RESULTS Prevalence of ASCA and pANCA was high in CD patients (59.7%) and UC (49.7%) patients, respectively. Positivity for both markers was significantly lower in healthy and non-IBD controls. Accuracy data (sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV, respectively) for differentiating IBD from controls are as follows: ASCA+: 60% (243/407), 91% (345/378), 88% (243/276), and 68% (345/509); pANCA+: 50% (73/147), 95% (605/638), 69% (73/106), and 89% (605/679); ASCA+/pANCA-: 56% (229/407), 94% (355/378), 91% (229/252), and 67% (355/533); and pANCA+/ASCA-: 44% (65/147), 97% (620/638), 78% (65/83), and 88% (620/702). CONCLUSIONS Specificity of serological markers for IBD is high, but low sensitivity makes them less useful as diagnostic tests. The combination of tests is probably more powerful, although, clinical subgroups still need to be defined. The usefulness of these markers in indeterminate colitis needs to be studied prospectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Peeters
- Department of Human Genetics, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
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Vermeire S, Peeters M, Vlietinck R, Joossens S, Den Hond E, Bulteel V, Bossuyt X, Geypens B, Rutgeerts P. Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies (ASCA), phenotypes of IBD, and intestinal permeability: a study in IBD families. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2001; 7:8-15. [PMID: 11233666 DOI: 10.1097/00054725-200102000-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serologic markers anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies (ASCA) and antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies with perinuclear staining (pANCA) have been proposed to study the immunopathogenesis of IBD. Their measurement may allow better phenotyping of the disease and the detection of subclinical disease. AIMS To test the hypothesis that serological markers identify an immunologic trait related to disease susceptibility. We also wanted to test the hypothesis that ASCA is a marker related to abnormal tissue permeation by common antigens. METHODS We studied the prevalence of pANCA and ASCA in a large cohort of sporadic and familial inflammatory bowel diseases and their unaffected relatives and spouses. Kinetics of ASCA was studied and the relationship between ASCA and 51Cr-EDTA intestinal permeation was investigated. RESULTS ASCA was associated with sporadic Crohn's disease (CD) (63%), with Crohn's patients belonging to pure CD families (62%) and also with their unaffected family members (21%). pANCA was associated with UC (58%). The prevalence of ASCA in CD patients belonging to mixed families was strikingly low (33%). ASCA was a stable marker throughout the disease and was not related to an increased small intestinal permeability. CONCLUSION ASCA is strongly associated with familial CD in Belgium, and 21% of healthy family members also display the marker. The association is much weaker in patients belonging to mixed families. ASCA is a stable marker and is not a secondary phenomenon due to increased intestinal permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Vermeire
- Gastroenterology Unit, UZ Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
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Vermeire S, Peeters M, Vlietinck R, Parkes M, Satsangi J, Jewell D, Rutgeerts P. Exclusion of linkage of Crohn's disease to previously reported regions on chromosomes 12, 7, and 3 in the Belgian population indicates genetic heterogeneity. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2000; 6:165-70. [PMID: 10961588 DOI: 10.1097/00054725-200008000-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Susceptibility to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is significantly determined by genetic factors. Linkage data from genome-wide searches have identified regions on chromosomes 16, 12, 7, and 3. Our goal was to replicate these four regions in a Belgian population of IBD families. Fifty-four IBD families were studied (47 with Crohn's disease [CD] and 7 with mixed CD and ulcerative colitis, containing 79 affected sibpairs (68 CD only, 11 mixed) for the regions previously implicated to chromosomes 16, 12, 7, and 3. In this study, no evidence for linkage was found on any of the four chromosomal regions studied for either the whole IBD dataset or the CD subgroup. The multipoint maximum logarithm of odds scores were less than 0.7 for all four regions. Exclusion mapping could significantly exclude chromosomes 3, 7, and 12. Despite earlier findings, we could significantly exclude linkage of CD with previously reported regions on chromosomes 12, 7, and 3, and could not find evidence for linkage to chromosome 16. It is important to report these findings in light of the genetic heterogeneity of IBD. A genome-wide search on a larger group of affected siblings is being analyzed to detect other possible susceptibility loci in the Belgian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Vermeire
- Gastroenterology Unit, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
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Abstract
Data on healthcare utilisation by MS patients of different grades of disability were collected using the method of a prospective diary. Professional care providers and unpaid caregivers noted during 4 weeks the time they spent and the types of support they provided. The total homecaring time of family and friends amounted to 4.6 and 12 h per day for the moderately and the severely disabled MS patients respectively. The time for unpaid core activities such as mobility help, nursing care and personal care of moderately and severely disabled patients amounted to 0.5 and 2 h per day, exceeding the time for professional medical and paramedical care at home. Eighty per cent of informal homecaring is provided by persons living with the patients, primarily the partner, who provides 60% of homecaring time. Severely disturbed bowel function and absence of a partner were associated with permanent institutionalisation. Multiple Sclerosis (2000) 6 274 - 279
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Affiliation(s)
- H Carton
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, University of Leuven, Belgium
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