.png)
.png)
Abstract
Objective: C-reactive protein (CRP) is considered to be a cardiovascular risk marker and changes in its level have been attributed to genetic factors. The aim of the study was to determine CRP 1059G/C gene polymorphism frequency and its relationship with CRP levels and carotid artery intima-media thickness (CIMT) in type 2 diabetic patients (DM).
Materials and Methods: One hundred and sixty-four type 2 diabetic patients (mean age: 57±7 years; F/M: 80/84) and 151 controls (mean age: 53±7 years; F/M: 81/70) were recruited. CIMT was assessed by carotid ultrasonography. CRP 1059G/C polymorphism was determined by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism analyses.
Results: The CRP 1059G/C polymorphism distribution in diabetic group and controls were similar (1059GG in 92% vs. 88%, 1059GC in 2% vs. 5%; 1059CC in 6% vs. 7%). CRP levels (4.3±6.6 mg/L vs. 2.5±2.3 mg/L; p=0.02) and CIMT (0.67±0.18mm vs. 0.56±0.19mm; p<0.0001) were increased in diabetics compared to controls. No association of CRP and CIMT with CRP 1059G/C polymorphism was found.
Conclusions: Increased CRP levels and CIMT seem to be independent of CRP 1059G/C gene polymorphism in our group of type 2 diabetic patients.