The Relationship between CYP17 –34T/C Polymorphism and Acne in Chinese Subjects Revealed by Sequencing

<i>Background:</i> Although many arguments have been raised on the role of heredity in the etiology of acne, the relevant genetic elements in the pathogenesis of the disease are not well established. <i>Objective:</i> The aim of our study was to evaluate the association between a genetic polymorphism in the promoter region of the CYP17 gene and the development of acne. <i>Methods:</i> 206 acne patients and 200 controls were included in the study. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) sequencing technique was used to reveal a CYP17 gene polymorphism in its promoter region. A χ² test was used for data analysis. <i>Results:</i> CYP17 –34T/C polymorphism was found and the frequency distribution of the C/C homozygotes and C allele in the male patients with severe acne (33.3 and 60.9%, respectively) were statistically significantly different from those of the control samples (18.2 and 46.6%; p < 0.05). No significant difference was observed between the female patients, mild + moderate male patients and their controls, respectively. <i>Conclusion:</i> The CYP17 –34C/C homozygote Chinese men are at a significantly increased risk of developing severe acne.