Gene variation may cause gout risk: Research

According to a study published in the journal Nature Genetics, researchers at the MRC Human Genetics Unit in Edinburgh have claimed to have identified the gene linked to gout. It was found that a variation in the SLC2A gene makes it harder for body to efflux uric acid from the blood which thereby results in condition related to gout.

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According to lead researcher Prof Alan Wright, “The gene is a key player in determining the efficiency of uric acid transport across the membranes of the kidney.”

“Some people will have higher or lower risk of gout depending on the form of the gene they inherited. This discovery may allow better diagnostic tools for gout to be developed,” added co-researcher Harry Campbell.

During the research the genetic analysis of over 12,000 people were done to identify the gene variant that raises the risk of gout. This finding will help scientists to create drugs to target the gene and the protein it controls.

Earlier a research held sugary soft drinks responsible for the painful condition related to gout.

Dr Andrew Bamji, the President of the British Society for Rheumatology in connection with the same research said, “It appears that this gene also plays a role in the control of levels of fructose sugar in the body, which would explain the finding that soft drinks were linked to attacks.”

Gout is a disease caused by the deposition of uric acid in cartilage, tendons and surrounding tissues and is characterised by severe pain, swelling and stiffness in the affected joint.

Uric acid generally is removed from the body through kidney in urine and if it is not removed from the body it gets accumulated at joints and causes pain and inflammation.

Such patients are generally asked to avoid refined sugars, protein and alcohol to reduce the further elevation of pain associated with the disease.

Usually associated with unhealthy lifestyle this identification in variation in gene SLC2A will pave the way to look for the treatment of the millions of people suffering from this excruciating disease.