Glutathione S-transferase gene polymorphisms and air pollution as interactive risk factors for asthma in a multicentre Italian field study: A preliminary study

Abstract

Background: Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases. Several studies have indicated that oxidative stress impairs pulmonary function. Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are believed to be critical in the protection of cells from reactive oxygen species.

Aim: In this case-control study we analysed the possible association between polymorphism in several cytosolic GST genes, air pollution and asthma development.

Methods: Genotyping of GSTM1 and GSTT1 genes was carried out by a multiplex PCR; GSTA1, GSTO1, GSTO2, GSTP1 polymorphisms were determined using the PCR-RFLP method. Data on atmospheric pollutants were collected by the regional air-quality monitoring network.

Results: Among all the polymorphisms studied, the frequencies of GSTA1, GSTM1, GSTO2 and GSTT1 genotypes found in the group of asthmatic patients seem to differ from the frequencies of those found in the control group. Air pollutants were analysed and the air quality parameters considered proved to be significantly different, and therefore suitable for this study.

Conclusion: The final result of this research should hopefully lead to a better understanding of gene–environment interactions, so allowing earlier prediction and diagnosis of asthma disease and providing an efficient means of prevention.

Keywords::

• GST
• asthma
• air pollution

Acknowledgements

We thank Martin Bennett for the English proofreading of the manuscript. All interviews were conducted in accordance with Italian law that guarantee individual privacy. Human studies have been approved by the appropriate ethics committee and have therefore been performed in accordance with the ethical standards as laid down by law.

Declaration of interest: This research was supported by a grant from the University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata’ (Ricerche di Ateneo, ex 60%) allotted to M.F. The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.