Association of FTO rs9939609 polymorphism with serum leptin, insulin, adiponectin, and lipid profile in overweight adults

FTO gene polymorphisms are associated with obesity and food intake. This study aimed to investigate the association of FTO rs9939609 polymorphism genotypes with serum glucose, lipid profile and serum hormones level. This cross-sectional study was carried out on 196 randomly selected overweight adults. Anthropometric measurements including weight, height, body mass index (BMI), fat mass, and fat-free mass were assessed. Serum TGs, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, glucose and insulin levels were measured. The FTO gene was Genotyped for rs9939609 polymorphism. Dietary intake was assessed by avalid 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The homozygotes for the FTO rs9939609 risk allele (A) had higher serum leptin (p = 0.005, F: 5.131) and lower HDL (p = 0.001, F: 7.687) level than TT genotype. The differences between TT and AT genotypes were not significant. The association remained significant for HDL level after adjustments for age and sex, calorie intake, physical activity, and BMI. The association between rs9939609 polymorphism genotypes and leptin was disappeared after adjustments for calorie intake and physical activity. In conclusion, rs9939609 risk allele was associated with higher serum leptin and lower HDL levels in overweight people. Further studies are warranted.