HLA-A, B, DRB1, DQA1, DQB1 alleles and haplotype frequencies in Dene and Cree cohorts in Manitoba, Canada.

Background: First Nations in the Canadian province of Manitoba have disproportionately high rates of epidemic and endemic TB. Gene polymorphisms that modulate HLA Class I and II antigens are among the risk markers for TB, along with other biologic, and social determinants of health. HLA-A, B, DRB1, DQA1, DQB1 were typed in two Manitoba First Nation indigenous groups to identify and compare the frequency of gene polymorphisms that may influence susceptibility or resistance to TB.

Vitamin D, serum 25(OH)D, LL-37 and polymorphisms in a Canadian First Nation population with endemic tuberculosis.

Background: Canadian First Nation populations have experienced endemic and epidemic tuberculosis (TB) for decades. Vitamin D-mediated induction of the host defence peptide LL-37 is known to enhance control of pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Objective: Evaluate associations between serum levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) and LL-37, in adult Dene First Nation participants (N = 34) and assess correlations with single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and vitamin D binding protein (VDBP).