Interleukin Genetics to Present Research Linking Perilipin Genes to Diet Response at ADA Meeting
06/08/2009
Interleukin Genetics to Present Research Linking Perilipin Genes to Diet Response at the ADA Annual Meeting
WALTHAM, MA – June 5, 2009 – Interleukin Genetics, Inc. (NYSE Amex: ILI) announced today that Nazneen Aziz, Ph.D., Vice President of Research and Development, will present findings that highlight significant associations between perilipin gene variants and response to weight-loss in overweight individuals at the American Diabetes Association’s 69th Scientific Sessions in New Orleans, LA. Dr. Aziz will present the Company’s research at 8 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2009, in Room 255 of the Morial Convention Center.
Interleukin Genetics and its collaborators conducted the research on DNA samples from the NIH-sponsored CALERIE (Comprehensive Assessment of the Long Term Effects of Restricting Intake of Energy) pilot study. CALERIE evaluated high and low glycemic load with a 30 percent calorie-restricted diets in individuals during a tightly-controlled, one-year period. The diets were prepared at the institution and provided to the study subjects for a period of six months and followed by extensive dietary guidance for the next six months. Compliance to the diet was monitored using a non-radioactive isotope mass spectrometric method using doubly labeled water technique several times during the study period. The Company’s research found that variations within the Perilipin genes are associated with resistance to body weight and fat loss in overweight study subjects who were provided a calorie restricted diet.
“Perilipin is a protein in the phospholipid outer layer of fat cells that plays an important role in both the storage and metabolism of triglycerides. This study confirms the results of other dietary intervention studies that found certain genetic variants within the perilipin gene can cause resistance to weight loss in individuals even when they follow a low-carbohydrate, low-calorie diet plan for an extended period,” said Dr. Aziz. “We hope to further extend these findings with broader studies, as these specific genotype considerations can lend themselves to possible clinical utility in optimal weight-loss programs for the obese/overweight population.
Interleukin Genetics genotyped a panel of 23 SNPs within genes involved in fat and carbohydrate metabolism in the study subjects who had consented for genetic analysis. A linear regression model that adjusted for age, gender and high or low glycemic dietary groups was used for the association analysis. Findings concluded that PLIN1/C and PLIN4/A showed resistance to body weight and fat loss in subjects provided a low glycemic load, 30 percent calorie restricted diet.
About American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight against the deadly consequences of diabetes and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Founded in 1940, our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.
About Interleukin Genetics
Interleukin Genetics, Inc. (NYSE Amex: ILI) develops and markets genetic tests that empower consumers to prevent chronic diseases of aging and that assist pharmaceutical companies in the development and marketing of targeted therapeutics. The Company leverages its research, intellectual property, and biomarker development experience to facilitate the emerging personalized health market. Interleukin Genetics is headquartered in Waltham, MA. For more information please visit www.ilgenetics.com.
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