CCR5-Δ32 gene polymorphism is associated with retinopathy in patients with type 1 diabetes

Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between the CCR5-Delta 32 polymorphism and the risk of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in patients with DM1. Methods: We examined 420 patients and 350 healthy controls. The analysis concerned CCR5-Delta 32 polymorphism as well as levels of serum inflammatory markers (CRP, TNF-alpha), adhesion molecules (VCAM, ICAM-1, ICAM-3) and CCR5 ligand (MCP-1). Results: We found a negative association between DM1 and Delta 32 allele. Moreover, the frequency of Delta 32 allele was higher in a group with DR in comparison to control subjects without this complication. We also found that 032 carriers had the highest levels of: HbA1c, inflammatory markers, adhesion molecules and CCR5 ligand. Conclusions: The findings of our studies suggest that the CCR5-Delta 32 polymorphism is associated with DM1 such that the Delta 32 allele protects against the development of DM1 and increases the risk of DR in patients who have already developed the disease. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.