The Ala-9Val polymorphism in the mitochondrial targeting sequence (MTS) of the manganese superoxide dismutase gene is not associated with juvenile-onset asthma

Background: We aimed to investigate the possible association between Mn-SOD polymorphism in the mitochondrial targeting sequence and asthma. Methods: Alanine or valine polymorphism in the signal peptide of Mn-SOD gene was evaluated using a primer pair to amplify a 107-bp fragment followed by digestion with NgoM IV. Results: No significant difference in genotype frequencies was found between patients and controls. Conclusion: These results suggest no major modifying role for the Mn-SOD gene polymorphism in patients with asthma.