CETP gene polymorphisms and haplotypes are explanatory variables for HDL cholesterol level in sickle cell disease

Variations in lipid profile have been observed in sickle cell disease (SCD) and understanding their relationship with disease severity is crucial. This study aimed to investigate the association of polymorphisms of the CETP gene and laboratory markers of disease severity with lipid profile in a pediatric population with SCD. Biochemical and anthropometric analyses and CETP and alpha-thalassemia genotyping were performed. The study included 133 children and adolescents with sickle cell anemia (SCA) or hemoglobin SC disease (SCC), in steady-state. The SCA and no hydroxyurea (no HU) groups had higher values of ApoB, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) compared to the SCC and HU groups. However, there were no significant differences in ApoA1 and HDL-C levels between the groups based on genotype. Furthermore, the groups with altered levels of ApoA1, HDL-C, and the triglyceride/HDL ratio exhibited lower hemoglobin (Hb) levels and higher white blood cell counts. Hb level was associated to HDL-C levels. Analysis of CETP gene variants showed that the minor alleles of rs3764261 (C>A), rs247616 (C>T), and rs183130 (C>T), as well as the TTA haplotype, are explanatory variables for HDL-C levels. These findings suggested that dyslipidemia in SCD, specifically related to HDL-C levels, may be influenced by individual genetic background. Additionally, further investigation is needed to determine if clinical manifestations are impacted by CETP gene variants.