Genetic studies link APOB and DENND5B genes to cholesterol and lipid metabolism

Recent scientific studies have identified genetic factors influencing lipid metabolism and cardiovascular risk. In a cross-sectional study conducted in Ouro Preto, Brazil, researchers found that the XbaI polymorphism in the APOB gene is associated with increased total cholesterol in children and adolescents. The study reported a high prevalence of increased total cholesterol at 68.9% among the participants. Carriers of the variant T allele were 1.45 times more likely to exhibit increased cholesterol levels, with risks further amplified by excess weight and family history of dyslipidemia.

Separately, research involving institutions such as the University of Kentucky and UCLA has investigated the role of the DENND5B gene in body composition and intestinal lipid absorption. Findings indicate that the disruption of DENND5B can lead to reduced body fat and increased intestinal fatty acid oxidation through the activation of autophagy. In mouse models, the genetic deletion of Dennd5b prevented postprandial plasma triglyceride elevations in both sexes, suggesting the protein plays a key role in intestinal chylomicron secretion and systemic lipid homeostasis.