A Clue in the Genetic Trail Leading to GERD?

A polymorphism of the GNB3 gene was more common among patients with GERD than in a control group.

While interviewing patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease, clinicians invariably hear that a relative of the patient has or has had GERD. Family and twin studies have suggested a genetic component of GERD susceptibility, but the specific association has not been defined (Am J Gastroenterol 1999; 94:1172). A functional polymorphism of the GNB3 gene is associated with functional dyspepsia, a condition involving visceral hypersensitivity.

Dutch investigators examined this GNB3 polymorphism in 363 GERD patients (defined as esophageal pH <4 for at least 6% of a 24-hour monitoring period, a symptom index score ≥50%, or symptom-associated probability ≥95%).

The genotype distribution in a control group of 373 patients was similar to that previ…

Reviewing Author

David A. Johnson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory boardMedscape/WebMD; Pfizer; CRH Medical Corporation; Aries

EquityCRH Medical Corporation

Editorial boardsMedscape Gastroenterology

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Research Institute Board of Directors