Contribution of M470V variant to cystic fibrosis: First study in CF and normal Tunisian population.

PURPOSE: Determining the frequency of M470V polymorphism in cystic fibrosis and healthy cohort in Tunisia to establish the contribution of M470V polymorphism in cystic fibrosis variable presentation and course. Additionally, studying the origin of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene in Tunisian population and its evolution among populations worldwide. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The genotyping of M470V marker was realized by PCR-RFLP technique in 34 unrelated patients and 50 healthy subjects.
RESULTS: Statistical difference was found in the genotype and allelic distribution between CF and control groups. Exclusive association between F508del allele and M470 allele was noted.
CONCLUSION: This study has contributed to better understanding involvement of the M470V polymorphism in the CF clinical expression in the Tunisian population and has confirmed the utility of this marker in the study of the origin and evolution of the CFTR locus in the human history.