AI Article Synopsis

  • The study investigates the genetic factors that contribute to individual differences in sensitivity to mercury exposure, focusing on a population known for heightened sensitivity (survivors of pink disease).* -
  • Researchers compared genetic variations (single nucleotide polymorphisms) in key genes related to mercury metabolism and transport between sensitive individuals (25 PD survivors) and a control group (25 healthy individuals).* -
  • Two specific genetic variations were identified (in the PON1 and MTHFR genes) that differentiate mercury-sensitive individuals from healthy controls, suggesting a genetic basis for this sensitivity.*

Article Abstract

Objectives: Very little is known about mechanisms of idiosyncratic sensitivity to the damaging effects of mercury (Hg); however, there is likely a genetic component. The aim of the present study was to search for genetic variation in genes thought to be involved in Hg metabolism and transport in a group of individuals identified as having elevated Hg sensitivity compared to a normal control group.

Materials And Methods: Survivors of pink disease (PD; infantile acrodynia) are a population of clinically identifiable individuals who are Hg sensitive. In the present study, single nucleotide polymorphisms in genes thought to be involved in Hg transport and metabolism were compared across two groups: (i) PD survivors (n = 25); and (ii) age- and sex-matched healthy controls (n = 25).

Results: Analyses revealed significant differences between groups in genotype frequencies for rs662 in the gene encoding paraoxanase 1 (PON1) and rs1801131 in the gene encoding methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR).

Conclusions: We have identified two genetic polymorphisms associated with increased sensitivity to Hg. Genetic variation in MTHFR and PON1 significantly differentiated a group formerly diagnosed with PD (a condition of Hg hypersensitivity) with age- and gender-matched healthy controls.

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Source
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4413404PMC
http://dx.doi.org/10.4103/0971-6580.155327DOI Listing

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