DefinePK

Abstract

Background and Objective: Variations in FOXO3A gene have been associated with longevity and healthy aging. Present study was designed to determine the frequency of FOXO3ASNP rs2802288 and its association with longevity and co-morbidities in a sample of local population exceeding life expectancy. Methods: The study was carried out on 91 samples collected from individuals of ages 70 years and above from the local population of Lahore. After DNA extraction and quantification, rs2802288 was assayed by Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism. Results were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: Study population comprised of 91 subjects. 45 (49.5%) being males and 46 (50.5%) females. Mean age of the sample group was 72.4 ± 3.8 years, mean height was 5.3 ± 0.37 feet and mean weight was 65.3 ± 13.8 kg. The major allele of rs2802288 was “G” with a frequency of (59.9%) and the minor allele was “A” and its minor allelic frequency (MAF) was 0.4. Prevalence of co-morbidities was higher in the sedentary group (85%) as compared to the athletic group (56%) (P=0.109). An insignificant association was found between genetic variations rs2802288and longevity (P=0.98) or age related comorbidities (P= 0.379). Conclusion: This pioneer study on local population shows minor allele of FOXO3 SNP rs2802288 as “A” with an MAF of 0.40. A weak association of genetic variations of rs2802288 and susceptibility to comorbidities and longer life span occurs in our local population. Nevertheless, evidence from literature suggests that a link between FOXO3 gene and longevity may occur, which warrants further exploration.