Background: Multiple genetic studies have shown linkage of atopy-related phenotypes to chromosome 5q31. In this region several candidate genes for atopy are localized such as the Th2 cytokines IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13, but also CD14, a receptor for LPS. Recently, a functional CD14 promoter polymorphism was related to total and specific IgE responsiveness.
Objective: The aim of our study was to evaluate the role of this single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in a large German birth cohort.
Methods: Atopy-related phenotypes were longitudinally carefully evaluated in over 800 children from birth to the age of 10 years. Yearly visits included standardized interviews, physical examinations and determination of total and specific IgE antibodies. Pulmonary function tests and histamine provocations were performed at the age of seven. Eight-hundred and seventy-two children of the Multicenter Allergy Study (MAS) cohort were genotyped using melting curve and restriction digest analyses.
Results: CD14-159 allele frequencies were consistent with previous reports, however, no association of the SNP with asthma, atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, total or specific IgE levels could be observed.
Conclusion: The CD14-159 SNP might not play a major role in the development of atopy in German children.