T/A polymorphism of the FTO gene and lifestyle are associated with fat accumulation in different age groups of men

BACKGROUND: Adiposity development and its complications are determined by lifestyle, genetic mechanisms and their interactions. Among the obesity-related genes, polymorphisms in the fat mass and obesity associated ( FTO ) gene are strongly associated with body fat estimates in different populations. AIMS: to examine the association between the FTO polymorphism (T/A, rs9939609) and fat accumulation in adult russian males. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study engaged 205 participants; the age ranged from 17 to 52 years. Samples of buccal smears were collected and genomic DNA was isolated for T/A polymorphism genotyping. Anthropometric measurements were conducted with caliperometry and body composition was estimated by bioimpedance analysis. RESULTS: Genotype frequencies in the whole studied sample were as follows FTO*TT 14%, FTO*AT 52,6%, FTO*AA 33,4% (χ 2 HW = 1,65 p=0,193). The minor A allele was significantly associated with increased fat accumulation and abdominal adiposity. CONCLUSIONS: Among different lifestyle modifications regular and consistent programmes of exercise are most efficient strategy to reduce abdominal fat deposits significantly, independent of FTO genotype.