Variants of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma- and beta-adrenergic receptor genes are associated with measures of compensatory eating behaviors in young children.

Background: Young children can regulate energy precisely in the short term, showing the potential for an innate compensation mechanism of eating behavior. However, data suggest that precise compensation is attenuated as a function of increasing adiposity, parental feeding style, and age. Common variation in candidate obesity genes may account for some of the individual variation observed in short-term energy compensation.

PPARG locus haplotype variation and exacerbations in asthma.

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) regulates inflammation and may play a role in asthma. Using mouthwash-derived DNA and clinical interviews and measurements, we investigated the association of previously characterized single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the PPARG gene (Pro12Ala, C1431T, and C-681G) with asthma exacerbations in patients aged 3-22 years (n=569). The common homozygous haplotype combination of the Pro12 and C1431 alleles was associated with increased risk for asthma exacerbations (ProC, odds ratio (OR) 1.

Glutathione S-transferase M1 and P1 genotype, passive smoking, and peak expiratory flow in asthma.

Objectives: Our purpose with this work was to assess the contribution of glutathione S-transferase gene variants to asthma susceptibility and pulmonary function in relation to tobacco smoke exposure in the home.

Methods: Young individuals with asthma (age: 3-21 years; n = 504) were recruited through primary and secondary care throughout Tayside, Scotland (BREATHE Study). Spirometry was obtained on 407 individuals.

Childhood obesity and socioeconomic status: a novel role for height growth limitation.

Objective: To assess prevalence and socioeconomic context of overweight and obesity in a cohort of Scottish children.

Design: Cross-sectional study.

Setting: Primary schools in Dundee, Angus, and Fife, Eastern Scotland, UK.

Energy intakes of children after preloads: adjustment, not compensation.

Background: Young children accurately compensate for energy-dense preloads consumed before test meals. The accuracy of compensation seems to deteriorate as a function of age.

Objective: The hypothesis that accurate energy compensation varies by age, body mass index, and individual characteristics of children and their mothers was tested.