ACE DD Genotype Is Associated with High Visceral Sensitivity Index Score in Healthy Student Population in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Background Visceral Sensitivity Index (VSI) questionnaire measures gastrointestinal specific anxiety a mediator of the relationship between general psychological distress measures and gastrointestinal symptom severity. Studies have shown that angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) may be required for sympatoadrenal activation during stress. The aim of our study was to explore the relationship of ACE gene polymorphisms with the scores for self-reported visceral hypersensitivity in the sample of student population exposed to psychological distress. Methods A blood sample was taken from ninety students during exam period. DNA was isolated and genotyping of ACE polymorphism (rs1799752) was performed using PCR method. The PCR products were analysed on a 2% agarose gel. All respondents completed the VSI questionnaire and based on the scores were stratified into two comparison groups. Allele and genotype association was tested using Fisher’s Exact Test in WINPEPI. Results Respondents with total score of up to 65 were classified in the first group and with values over 65 in the second group. Increased frequencies of D allele and DD genotype were observed in the subgroup of students with higher VSI score. Conclusions Obtained results revealed statistically significant association of allele D and DD genotype with increased VSI score. Our results indicate that further genetic and genome studies of regulation of brain-gut axis and visceral hypersensitivity could be helpful in clinical interpretation of their impact on functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) symptoms and on development of some other acute and chronic stress related conditions in youth population.