Fetal folate C677T methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene polymorphism and low birth weight

J Obstet Gynaecol. 2006 Jan;26(1):11-4. doi: 10.1080/01443610500363865.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine if fetal C677T methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) genotype contributes to low birth weight. The study group consisted of 243 term babies with a birth weight<10th centile for gestational age, with subgroup analyses for those <1st centile. The control group consisted of 132 term babies with a birth weight 3.3-3.8 kg. Odds ratio analyses with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for carriage of the t allele and overall genotype frequencies. There was no significant difference in carriage of the t allele between study and control groups, odds ratio (OR) 0.79 (95% CI, 0.57-1.09). No differences were observed for frequencies of heterozygote and recessive homozygote genotypes for the two populations. In the subgroup analyses, no statistical differences were observed in the t allele frequency, frequency of the heterozygote or homozygote genotype. Trends were seen and the study suggests that fetal C677T MTHFR genotype may be a factor contributing to birth weight. The potential may exist to influence clinical outcome by maternal folate supplementation.

MeSH terms

  • Birth Weight / genetics*
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease / genetics
  • Heterozygote
  • Humans
  • Infant, Low Birth Weight / physiology*
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (NADPH2) / genetics*
  • Polymorphism, Genetic
  • Term Birth

Substances

  • Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (NADPH2)