Genetic Variants and Iron Absorption

Cornell University

Status: Completed

Conditions: Iron Absorption

Study type: Observational

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT02197624

IRB #: 1206003117

Details and patient eligibility

About

The two specific aims of this study are: 1) to assess the impact of a genetic variant on iron status; 2) to assess the impact of a genetic variant on non-heme absorption among Asian women. The investigators hypothesize that the genetic variant could enhance iron status and iron absorption in Asian women.

Full description

To determine the HFE genotype of female Asian study volunteers, we collected venous blood samples and extracted DNA from these blood samples. HFE genotype was determined as CC, CT, and TT and used to assess possible differences in iron status as a function of genotype. To measure the impact of genotype on non-heme Fe absorption, a sub-group of women with the CC (n=10) or TT (n=11) genotype were invited to return for an Fe absorption study. Each volunteer consumed stable 57Fe (as ferrous sulfate). Two weeks after ingesting this tracer, a blood sample was collected from each woman and the amount of non-heme (57Fe) iron incorporated into red blood cells was measured with magnetic sector thermal ionization mass spectrometry. Possible associations between iron status and iron absorption as a function of genotypes were explored. Data from this study will provide information that aims to improve human health by better understanding the iron requirements of individuals with different genetic background.

Enrollment: 57 patients

Sex: Female

Ages: 18 to 35 years old

Volunteers: Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• non-pregnant and between the ages of 18~35 y
• East Asian descent with both maternal and paternal grandparents from East Asia, including China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore

Exclusion criteria

• taking or planing to take any vitamin or mineral supplements during the study period
• pre-existing medical problems that might impact inflammation or Fe status, including malabsorption, blood disorders, ulcers, joint diseases and asthma
• taking any prescribed medications known to affect iron homeostasis