TPO gene rs2071400 polymorphisms as an independent risk factor for hypothyroidism in Iraqi patients

Introduction and Aim: Thyroid peroxidase (TPO) is a thyroid-specific antigen, and the presence of TPO antibodies is known to be associated with developing hypothyroidism. In this study we aimed to investigate the genotypes prevalent for the SNP rs2071400 of the TPO gene and its association to the development of autoimmune thyroid disease.   Materials and Methods: This study involved 43 patients with hypothyroidism and 44 healthy controls. Genotyping of the TPO SNP rs2071400 (C/T) was undertaken using Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction using the TaqMan® Assay. Data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis using the SPSS 25 software   Results: TPO rs2071400 T carriers (CT + TT genotypes) were more frequent in patients with hypothyroidism compared with healthy control (P=0.0006), with an adjusted odds ratio of 8.0. Serum levels of Anti-TPOAb were also significantly higher in hypothyroid patients. There was no significant correlation between rs2071400 T mutation and the presence of high Anti-TPOAb.   Conclusion: Study revealed TPO rs2071400 polymorphism to be an independent risk factor for developing hypothyroidism in those with or without high serum levels of TPOAb.