Aim: The present study was conducted to assess the impact of gene (vitamin D receptor [VDR] polymorphisms) - environment (serum vitamin D and calcium levels) interaction on multiple sclerosis (MS) risk. Materials & methods: FokI, BsmI, TaqI and ApaI genotyping were performed in 149 MS patients and 127 controls. We measured serum vitamin D and calcium levels. Results: No significant difference between VDR polymorphisms and MS risk was detected. In patients with FokI ff, BsmI Bb, TaqI Tt and ApaI AA genotypes, vitamin D levels were statistically higher. Serum calcium levels were significantly lower in patients with FokI FF, Ff, all BsmI and TaqI genotypes and ApaI AA and Aa genotypes. Conclusion: No significant association was found between VDR polymorphisms with MS risk.
Keywords: ELISA; PCR-RFLP; calcium; multiple sclerosis; vitamin D; vitamin D receptor polymorphisms.
Vitamin D deficiency stands out as an important environmental factor in multiple sclerosis (MS). In recent years, the role of genetic factors associated with vitamin D has also been examined. In addition to the effects of smoking habit, exposure to ultraviolet rays, latitude and inflammatory diseases on MS risk, high vitamin D levels are thought to be protective. Therefore, investigation of genetic factors that play a role in vitamin D metabolism will be helpful in elucidating the etiology of MS disease and in the development of treatment options.