PGC1 alpha gene Gly482Ser polymorphism predicts improved metabolic, inflammatory and vascular outcomes following bariatric surgery

Abstract

Aims/Hypothesis: Bariatric surgery is currently employed as an effective approach to treat class III obesity and class II obesity with co-morbidities. Unfortunately, the general anthropometric and metabolic outcomes of the surgery are not homogeneous, and defining the eligibility criteria that allow for a more precise prediction of the outcomes of this invasive procedure will refine the selection of patients. Here we tested the hypothesis that the Gly482Ser polymorphism of the ppargc1a gene would predict different outcomes following bariatric surgery. Methods: Fifty-five patients (26 Gly/Gly and 29 Gly/Ser+Ser/Ser) selected for the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass according to the National Institutes of Health Consensus Statement criteria were followed up for 1 year, monitoring their anthropometric, metabolic and inflammatory parameters. Results: Patients with the Gly482Ser polymorphism had significantly improved reductions in the waist/hip ratio, fasting blood glucose, C-reactive protein, blood leukocyte count, serum interleukin-6 and intima-media thickness of the carotid artery, as compared with Gly/Gly patients. Conclusions/Interpretation: Thus, the Gly482Ser polymorphism may predict a more favorable metabolic and inflammatory outcome for obese patients submitted to bariatric surgery, leading to a reduced atherosclerotic risk. International Journal of Obesity (2012) 36, 363-368; doi:10.1038/ijo.2011.176; published online 6 September 2011