Novel gene variants predict serum levels of the cytokines IL-18 and IL-1ra in older adults.

ABSTRACT: Activation of inflammatory pathways measured by serum inflammatory markers such as interleukin-18 (IL-18) and interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) is strongly associated with the progression of chronic disease states in older adults. Given that these serum cytokine levels are in part a heritable trait, genetic variation may predict increased serum levels. Using the Cardiovascular Health Study and InCHIANTI cohorts, a genome-wide association study was performed to identify genetic variants that influence IL-18 and IL-1ra serum levels among older adults. Multiple linear regression models characterized the association between each SNP and log-transformed cytokine values. Tests for multiple independent signals within statistically significant loci were performed using haplotype analysis

SUBMITTER: Matteini AM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4060632 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature