1. ¹Complex Genetics Section, Department of Medical Genetics-DBG, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
2. ²Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
3. ³Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands

Correspondence: Yvonne T. van der Schouw (y.t.vanderschouw@umcutrecht.nl)

Received 1 November 2007; Accepted 27 June 2008; Published online 9 October 2008.

Abstract

The protein tyrosine phosphatase nonreceptor type1 (PTPN1) gene encodes for the protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B, which suppresses the signaling pathway of leptin. Variations of the PTPN1 gene may lead to changes in leptin sensitivity and thereby influence eating behavior and measures of obesity. This study investigated the association between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the PTPN1 gene and eating behavior and different measures of obesity, including visceral fat. We used data from a population-based, cross-sectional study of 382 Dutch white men aged 40–80 years. Self-reported macronutrient intake was collected with a food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometrical measurements included BMI, waist and hip circumference, total lean and fat mass measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and visceral and subcutaneous fat measured with ultrasound. Associations were studied using linear regression analysis. There were no statistically significant associations of SNPs in the PTPN1 gene with dietary phenotypes or measures of obesity.