A recent study published in Diabetology and Metabolic Syndrome revealed that vitamin D, VDR ApaI (rs7975232) and FokI (rs2228570) polymorphisms, as well as HbA1c level, are linked to the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in the north Indian population, suggesting that pregnant women should include vitamin D supplementation.

GDM poses a risk to pregnant women and their developing babies. The study aimed to evaluate the association of vitamin D receptor (VDR) variants (ApaI, BsmI, and FokI) with GDM in the North Indian population.

Researchers used Tetra-ARMS PCR to genotype VDR variants that were subsequently validated by Sanger sequencing. Different genetic models were used to determine the odds ratio (OR), confidence interval (CI), and genotypes of VDR variants in GDM.

The study reported a significant link between the C allele of the ApaI (rs7975232) genotype and GDM, compared to the TT genotype. The A allele of FokI and the A allele of BsmI were the risk factors for GDM. Sanger sequencing confirmed this association.

There was a decrease in the circulatory vitamin D3 level in GDM patients, and the vitamin D deficiency was associated with homozygous genotypes of ApaΙ (CC, P < 0.0884), BsmI (GG, P < 0.8192), and FokI (GG, P < 0.0303). When compared to the control group, the GDM group showed an increase in blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c).