Postural balance and vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism in physically independent older adults

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the association between VDR polymorphisms and postural balance in physically independent elderly. 142 elderly persons were enrolled at this case-control study. In order to assess the balance, the individuals performed three 30-s trials of one-legged stance balance test on a BIOMEC400 force-platform (EMG System of Brazil, SP Ltda.), following a standardized protocol (with 30 s of rest between each trial). The main balance parameters used for analysis were: center of pressure area (COP), sway velocity (cm/s) and frequency (s) in both the antero-posterior (A/P) and the medio-lateral (M/L) axes. The VDR TaqI polymorphism analysis was by PCR-RFLP. The case group showed lower values of COP, sway velocity in A/P and M/L axes (p = 0.0007). Similar data were observed regarding frequency in A/P (p = 0.04) and M/L axes (p = 0.03). Therefore, carriers of the “C” allele have a better postural balance when compared to individuals with “T” allele.