The D9N, N291S and S447X variants in the lipoprotein lipase (LPL) gene are not associated with Type III Hyperlipidemia

Abstract

Abstract Background Type III hyperlipidemia (Type III HLP) is associated with homozygosity for the ε2 allele of the APOE gene. However only about 10% of ε2 homozygotes develop Type III HLP and it is assumed that additional genetic and/or environmental factors are required for its development. Common variants in the LPL gene have been proposed as likely genetic co-factors. Methods The frequency of the LPL SNPs D9N, N291S and S447X in 100 patients with hyperlipidemia and APOE2/2 genotype has been determined and compared to that in healthy blood donors and patients with hyperlipidemia. Results There were no statistically significant difference in the frequencies of the variants between APOE2/2 patients and controls. Conclusion It is unlikely that the D9N, N291S or S447X variants in the LPL gene play an important role in the development of Type III HLP.