The CAG repeat polymorphism in the androgen receptor gene modulates body fat mass and serum concentrations of leptin and insulin in men

The relationship of androgens to the metabolic syndrome has not been resolved. The polymorphic number of CAG repeats within the androgen receptor gene is inversely associated with the transcriptional activity of target genes. This polymorphism might thus influence testosterone effects on body fat content and serum concentrations of leptin and insulin. The direct and indirect role of androgens within the metabolic syndrome should become clearer if this genetically determined effector is taken into account. The hypothesis was investigated in a cross-sectional study involving 106 healthy 20-50 year old males. Multiple regression models showed a positive independent correlation of the CAG repeat number with body fat content, leptin and insulin (partial r=0.39, 0.36 and 0.28, p