Aldose reductase C-106T gene polymorphism in type 2 diabetics with microangiopathy in Iranian individuals

BACKGROUND: Aldose reductase (AR) is the rate-limiting enzyme in the glucose metabolism, which has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic microvascular complications (MVCs). Frequent C-106T polymorphism in the promoter of the AR gene may change the expression of the gene. AIMS: The aim of the following study is to study the association between AR C106T genotypes and diabetic MVCs in Iranian population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We included 206 type 2 diabetic patients categorized into two groups according to the presence or absence of diabetic microangiopathy. The cases of interest were diabetic neuropathy, retinopathy and nephropathy identified during clinical and or laboratory examination. In addition, 114 age- and sex-matched individuals were selected to serve as a control group. AR genotyping was done using an amplification gel electrophoresis. RESULTS: The frequency of CC genotype was specifically higher in subjects with diabetic retinopathy as compared to those without it (53.2% vs. 38.1%, P = 0.030). Patients with diabetic microangiopathy in general; however, did not differ significantly between AR genotype groups. CONCLUSION: The C-106T polymorphism in the AR gene is likely a risk factor for development of only retinal complication of diabetes microvascular in Iranian individuals.