Combined effect of hygienic and polygenic risk scores in children with
allergic rhinitis
Abstract
ABSTRACT Background Although the development of
allergic rhinitis (AR) is associated with multiple genetic and hygienic
environmental factors, previous studies have focused mostly on the
effect of a single factor on the development of AR. This study aimed to
investigate the combined effect of multiple genetic and hygienic
environmental risk factors on AR development in school children.
Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study, comprising 1,797
children aged 9–12 years. Weighted environmental risk score (ERS) was
calculated by using four hygienic environmental factors, including
antibiotic use during infancy, cesarean section delivery, breast milk
feeding, and having older siblings. Weighted polygenic risk score (PRS)
was calculated by using four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs),
including interleukin-13 (rs20541), cluster of differentiation 14
(rs2569190), toll-like receptor 4 (rs1927911), and glutathione
S-transferase P1 (rs1695). Multivariable logistic regression analysis
was used. Results More than three courses of antibiotic use
during infancy increased the risk of current AR (adjusted odd ratio
[aOR], 2.058; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.290–3.284).
Having older siblings, especially >2 (aOR, 0.526; 95% Cl:
0.303–0.913) had a protective effect. High ERS (>median;
aOR, 2.079; 95% Cl: 1.466–2.947) and PRS (>median; aOR,
1.627; 95% Cl: 1.117–2.370) increased the risk of current AR
independently. Furthermore, children who had both high ERS and PRS
showed a higher risk of current AR (aOR, 3.176; 95% Cl: 1.787–5.645).
Conclusions Exposure to multiple hygienic risk factors during
early life increases the risk of AR in genetically susceptible children.
Key words: Allergic rhinitis, Hygiene, Genes, Risk factors,
Child, Gene-environment interaction, Anti-bacterial agent