ABCA1 EXPRESSION IN HUMANS IS ASSOCIATED WITH PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

Abstract Genetic variation in ABCA1 significantly affects HDL levels and atherosclerotic risk. The aim of this study was to examine lifestyle factors influencing ABCA1 expression in human leukocytes and skeletal muscle. A fasting venous blood sample and a vastus lateralis muscle biopsy were taken from 30 volunteers (53 ± 1 years; mean ± S.E.M.). Levels of ABCA1 mRNA were measured in blood leukocytes and muscle biopsies. Plasma-induced cholesterol efflux from THP-1 human macrophages as well as plasma lipids and lipid-related parameters were also measured. The amount of alcohol consumed per week correlated strongly with both muscle ABCA1 expression ( r 2  = +0.37, p r 2  = +0.41, p p p 1 -HDL ( p In conclusion, ABCA1 expression in human leukocytes and muscle is associated with physical activity and alcohol consumption, respectively.