The Prevalence of Phenylketonuria in Arab Countries, Turkey, and Iran: A Systematic Review.

Background/objectives: This paper seeks to identify the prevalence of Phenylketonuria (PKU) in Arab countries, Turkey, and Iran. The study reviewed the existence of comprehensive national newborn screening programs and reported consanguinity rates.

Methods: A computer based literature search was conducted using relevant keywords to retrieve studies conducted on PKU.

Arginine 16 Glycine Polymorphism in β2-Adrenergic Receptor Gene is Associated with Obesity, Hyperlipidemia, Hyperleptinemia, and Insulin Resistance in Saudis.

Background. Several studies have shown an association between codon 16 polymorphism of the β2AR gene and obesity. Methods.

The Gln27Glu polymorphism in β2-adrenergic receptor gene is linked to hypertriglyceridemia, hyperinsulinemia and hyperleptinemia in Saudis.

Background: β2-adrenoceptor (β2AR) gene polymorphism glutamine 27 glutamic acid (Gln27Glu) and Arg16Gly were reported to have an association with obesity and obesity related disorders in some population. We evaluated Gln27Glu polymorphism in the β2AR gene in obese Saudi populations to investigate the association of β2AR gene with obesity and other related metabolic parameters.

Design: We studied possible association of Gln27Glu in β2AR gene with body mass index (BMI), anthropometric measurements and other metabolic parameters.

Hormonal levels of leptin, insulin, ghrelin, and neuropeptide Y in lean, overweight, and obese Saudi females.

Objective: To studied the relationship that exists between leptin, ghrelin, insulin, neuropeptide Y (NPY), anthropometric, and metabolic variables in Saudi females.

Methods: The study was conducted at the Department of Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from November 2004 to August 2005. One hundred and twenty-two Saudi females were divided into 3 body mass index (BMI) groups: lean (N=60), overweight (N=17), and obese (N=45).

A new era for preventive genetic programs in the Arabian Peninsula.

In the Arabian Peninsula, high percentages of consanguineous marriages and the tribal nature of marriages have resulted in high incidence of genetically based disorders. The successful management of these disorders incurs a high financial cost, which is a great burden on the health care system. The practical solution to this problem is through prevention.

A simple, rapid test for the differential diagnosis of glycogen storage disease type 3.

Background: Type 3 glycogen storage disease is an inborn error of metabolism in young infants that often requires extensive workup. However, this disease manifests with few symptoms other than hepatosplenomegaly. At adolescence, this disease may cause myopathy and cardiomyopathy.