Evidence of stunting genes in Asian countries: A review

Stunting defined as anthropometrically as height-for-age Z-score (HAZ) with less than 2 standard deviation (SD) has been observed more prevalent in children in developing countries that reflect the linear growth failure. It was estimated that the prevalence of stunting in Asian countries ranges from 30% - 69%. Stunting occurs due to the interplay of genetic and environmental factors. The susceptible genes involve in hormone signalling, paracrine factor, matric molecules, intercellular pathways and cellular processes of epiphyseal growth plate. Many genetic studies conducted among stunted children has elucidated the role of genes in affecting the attribute factors such as low birth weight, socio-economy, poor preventive health care and others. Whole genome sequencing revealed potential putative genes which involve in different pathways in related to retarded epiphyseal growth plate in various Asian countries such GHSR, GH1, GHRHR, STAT5B, IGF1, COMP and many more associated genes. The data emphasize that these potential genetic markers may provide better treatment in targeting the related pathophysiology in stunting development. In this current national implementation, genetic testing has not yet been permeated to the clinical practice for a standard evaluation since lack of genetic studies on stunting genes conducted in Asian countries, particularly Malaysia.