Vitamin D Receptor Gene Fok1 Polymorphism Predicts Calcium Absorption and Bone Mineral Density in Children

• DOI: 10.1359/jbmr.1999.14.5.740
• Publication Date: 2006-04-26T20:14:41Z
• Authors: Sharla K. Ames; Kenneth J. Ellis; Sheila K. Gunn; Kenneth C. Copeland; Steven A. Abrams
• Keywords: Peak bone mass; Isotopes of calcium

The vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene has been implicated as one of the major genetic components osteoporosis. We evaluated relationship between markers mineral status and restriction fragment length polymorphisms VDR in 72 healthy children age 7-12 years. Using stable isotope techniques dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, we measured dietary calcium absorption, bone deposition rates, total body density (BMD). Fok1 polymorphism at translation initiation site was significantly associated with BMD (p = 0.02) absorption 0.04). Children who were FF homozygotes had a mean that 41.5% greater than those ff 17% Ff heterozygotes. 8.2% genotype 4.8% higher genotype. These results suggest substantial metabolism or more levels, including growing children.