The PER3 VNTR polymorphism is a predictor of dietary composition in the Central European population

Abstract

Objectives, design: The aim of this case control study was to investigate possible associations of the variable number tandem-repeat (VNTR) polymorphism in the PER3 gene with obesity-related anthropometric traits, sleep and nutritional behaviour. Setting: A total of 329 volunteers of the Czech Caucasian origin were enrolled in the study. The allele-specific PCR-based method was used to determine the VNTR PER3 genotypes, dietary composition and time patterns were evaluated using seven day native food records and seven day sleep records. Results: No differences were observed in allele frequencies between the obese and the non-obese individuals. The PER3 VNTR polymorphism was associated with the total daily energy derived from carbohydrates (p < 0.01) and fat (p < 0.02). No association with sleep homeostasis was observed. Conclusions: We have demonstrated the relationship between the PER3 VNTR polymorphism and behavioural patterns of the food intake in the Central-European population.

Keywords:

• PER3
• VNTR polymorphism
• dietary composition
• sleep

Acknowledgements

The present study was supported by the projects MZMOU2005 and RECAMO CZ.1.05/2.1.00/03.0101.