A new model of the mechanism underlying lead poisoning: SNPs in miRNA target region influence the δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase expression level

To determine if SNPs located within the 3'-UTR of δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) can alter the risk of lead poisoning and the ALAD gene expression.A case-control study was carried out to find the SNPs in miRNA target region. Luciferase reporter gene assay, qRT-PCR and Western blot was used to determine the relationship between miRNA and SNPs.We found a significant association between rs818708 and the risk of lead poisoning. miR-545-5p was influenced by rs818708 variant and might result in a significant change in ALAD expression.rs818708 T > C can weaken the binding capability between miR-545-5p and 3'-UTR of ALAD and thus may alter the risk of lead poisoning.