Association Between Polymorphisms of Alpha-Adducin Gene Polymorphisms (rs4961, rs4963) and Essential Hypertension in Baghdad Population

Abstract

Essential hypertension (EH), a leading risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, remains poorly understood genetically. This case-control study investigated associations between ADD1 gene polymorphisms (rs4961 G>T and rs4963 C>G), serum alpha-adducin levels, and EH risk in a Baghdad population (75 patients, 75 controls; June 2024–January 2025). Genotyping was performed via TaqMan assays, and serum alpha-adducin was quantified via ELISA. No significant difference in serum alpha-adducin levels was observed between patients and controls (36.03 ± 1.25 vs. 32.98 ± 1.05; p > 0.05). For rs4961 G>T, the TT and GT genotypes were significantly more frequent in patients (p < 0.05), while the GG genotype predominated in controls. For rs4963 C>G, the CG genotype was elevated in patients (p < 0.05), whereas the GG genotype was absent in both groups. Haplotype analysis revealed three combinations: GC, TC, and TG. The GC haplotype correlated with reduced EH risk (p < 0.05), while TC and TG were linked to increased susceptibility. Serum alpha-adducin levels showed no association with either SNP (p > 0.05). These findings suggest rs4961 G>T is significantly associated with EH risk in this population, whereas rs4963 C>G and alpha-adducin levels lack such association. Further studies are warranted to validate these results and explore ADD1 mechanistic role in hypertension pathogenesis.