HFE gene polymorphism in the population of Northern Asia

: Human HFE gene haplotype analysis with reference to IVS2(+4)t/c, IVS4(-44)t/c, IVS5(-47)a/g polymorphic sites was performed in different North Asian ethnic groups. Of the eight possible intronic haplotypes, TTG, TTA, CTA and CCA were identified. High frequency of the CCA haplotype appears to be a characteristic feature of all Asian native populations. Potential functional importance of IVS4(-44)t/c polymorphism is demonstrated. Patients presenting with iron overload syndrome are shown to have low frequency of IVS4(-44)c.