Role of Leu72Met of GHRL and Gln223Arg of LEPR Variants on Food Intake, Subjective Appetite, and Hunger-Satiety Hormones

Abstract

Appetite regulation has been recognized as a promising target for the prevention of obesity, which has become a worldwide health issue. Polymorphisms in the genes of hormones or receptors including Leu72Met for ghrelin and Gln223Arg for the leptin receptor could play a role in dietary intake, hunger, and satiety process. The aim of this study was to analyze subjective appetite assessments, dietary intake, and appetite hormones in relationship to these polymorphisms. Subjects (n = 132) with normal BMIs were enrolled. Dietary intake was analyzed with 3-day diet records. Subjective appetite was measured by visual analogue scales. Biochemical parameters were measured after 12 h of fasting and 120′ following ingestion of a test meal. Ghrelin and leptin levels were measured by ELISA assay (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) and insulin by chemiluminescence assay. The polymorphisms were determined by allelic discrimination using TaqMan® probes. Fasting ghrelin levels differed significantly between men and women. The consumption of fruit and bread/starch with added sugar servings, as indicated by dietary records, and measured ghrelin levels were higher in carriers of Leu72Met/Met72Met compared to Leu72Leu carriers; total sugar intake was higher in Gln223Gln carriers than in Gln223Arg/Arg223Arg carriers. In conclusion, the Leu72Met and Gln223Arg polymorphism in ghrelin and LEPR may contribute to differential responses to a standardized meal as evidenced by higher postprandial levels of ghrelin and may also contribute to a higher dietary sugar intake.