Abstract: Objective The aim of the study is to explore the relationship between the SNPs in microRNA binding sites of ABCG5/8 and the glucose and lipid level during pregnancy. Methods 1925 pregnant women were recruited at Peking Union Medical College hospital from 2006 to 2011. The clinical data were collected and the total genomic DNA was extracted from whole blood samples. ABCG5/8, which was reported to be related with the glucose and lipid metabolism closely, were selected as the candidate gene and the SNPs in its microRNA binding sites with minor allele frequency > 5% in Han Chinese in Beijing were chosen. Then the genotyping was performed and analyzed. Results There was only one SNP matching the criteria, rs2278356, and it is significantly associated with LDL-C and TC level during pregnancy (LDL-C: b = 0.104 mmol/L, 95%CI 0.023-0.185 mmol/L, p<0.05；TC: b = 0.105 mmol/L, 95%CI 0.080-0.203 mmol/L, p<0.05). Conclusions We found the association between rs2278356 in 3’ UTR of ABCG5/8 and the LDL-C and TC level in pregnant Chinese Han women, which may provide the individualized treatment strategy for pregnant women with high cholesterol.

Key words: Key words: glucose and lipid metabolism disorders in pregnancy, ABCG5/8, microRNA binding sites