Background: We explored whether the Asp42Gly polymorphism (rs12075) in the DARC gene represents a confounding factor in the interpretation of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) concentration in circulating blood.
Methods: MCP-1 concentration in serum and plasma were measured in 278 healthy Caucasian participants who are representative of our geographic area. The rs12075 genotype distribution was also assessed in this population.
Results: Plasma MCP-1 concentration did not vary among the rs12075 polymorphism derived genotypes [in pg/mL, AA: 171.9 (100.2 - 287.2), AG: 178.9 (105.1 - 326.4) and GG: 173.7 (94.4 - 405.7)]. However, there were significant increases in serum MCP-1 related to the presence of the A allele [in pg/mL, AA: 334.6 (180.4 - 756.4), AG: 299.1 (166.1 - 634.9) and GG: 249.1 (149.3 - 578.1)].
Conclusions: These findings limit the value of circulating MCP-1 as a biomarker and apparently indicate a pathophysiological role for silent chemokine receptors.