FCRL3 Gene Association with Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis

This study sought to determine if there is an association between the single nucleotide polymorphism rs7528684 of the Fc receptor-like-3 (FCRL3) gene and asthma or allergic rhinitis (AR). Based on previous studies in an Asian population, we hypothesized that participants with an AA genotype of FCRL3 would be more likely to have asthma and/or allergic rhinitis. To test the hypothesis, surveys were administered to participants, and genotyping was performed on spit samples via PCR, restriction digest, and gel electrophoresis. Our results identified a statistically significant association between the GG genotype of FCRL3 and an increased risk of asthma with comorbid AR. Additionally, we found a statistically significant association between the presence of other allergies with asthma and comorbid AR. These results suggest that having the GG genotype of FCRL3 or having a history of other allergies predisposes one to having asthma with comorbid AR. The results of the study are important in more clearly identifying asthma and AR-related genes such as FCRL3 and the variation in such genes across ethnicities. These findings could lead to earlier diagnosis and advancements in targeted therapies for the highly prevalent diseases of asthma and allergic rhinitis.