LncRNA TINCR rs2288947 Polymorphism as a Genetic Susceptibility Factor for Diabetic Retinopathy.

Abstract

Background: Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are critically involved in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Nevertheless, the role of lncRNA TINCR in DR has not been fully elucidated.

Objective: This study aimed to examine the relationship between the lncRNA TINCR polymorphism rs2288947 and DR susceptibility in a Chinese Han population with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and to explore the diagnostic potential of plasma lncRNA TINCR levels.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted with 507 participants (255 NPDR patients and 252 T2DM controls). Plasma TINCR expression was measured via qRT-PCR, and rs2288947 genotyping was performed using the TaqMan assay. Multivariate logistic regression and ROC analyses were applied to evaluate diagnostic value and risk associations.

Results: LncRNA TINCR expression was significantly elevated and served as an independent risk factor in NPDR patients and exhibited high diagnostic value. The G allele of rs2288947 was associated with increased NPDR risk and higher lncRNA TINCR expression. Carriers of GA/GG genotypes showed upregulated lncRNA TINCR, which correlated with longer diabetes duration, elevated HbA1c, reduced HDL-C, and impaired renal function.

Conclusion: Both lncRNA TINCR and the rs2288947 polymorphism contribute to NPDR development and show promise as biomarkers for early screening and risk evaluation.