Genetic Variant in Apolipoprotein C3 Gene and Fatty Liver in Obese Children

The Influence of Apolipoprotein C3 Variants on Liver Steatosis and Serum Liver Enzyme Values in Obese Children

In the past decades, obesity in children is much more prevalent in the world. Given the increasing prevalence of pediatric obesity worldwide, fatty liver incidence is on the rise.

Genetic variant in apolipoprotein C3 (APOC3) gene is associated with increased liver fat content in adults.

The aim of this study is to find out whether APOC3 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) influence fatty liver in obese children and adolescent.

The primary aim of this study is to assess the associations between to investigate the association of rs2854117 C > T and rs2854116 T > C SNPs of the APOC3 gene with liver steatosis, as measured by liver ultrasound.

As a secondary aim, the investigators will examine the associations between APOC3 rs2854117 C > T and rs2854116 T > C SNPs and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels. In addition, the investigators will further analyze the association with other biomarkers, such as body mass index, adiponectin and insulin resistance.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 6-18 years old
• Obesity definition: BMI > 95% according to the age- and gender-specific standard suggested by National Health Institute in Taiwan
• Willing to give written informed consent by parents

Exclusion Criteria:

• Alcohol consumption
• Chronic liver diseases, including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, Wilson disease and autoimmune hepatitis
• Major systemic diseases, including cardiopulmonary disease, renal failure, cancer, and psychotic disorder