Early prevention of dyslipidemia is critical for reducing the future onset of atherosclerosis and atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Although lifestyle interventions have been recommended, the interactions between common genetic variants and modifiable habits in young populations remain unclear. Membrane-bound O-acyltransferase domain-containing 7 (MBOAT7) has been implicated in lipid metabolism and steatotic liver disease; however, its role in early atherosclerosis is poorly understood. Associations between the MBOAT7 rs641738 genotype, lifestyle habits, and atherogenic lipid profiles were assessed in young adults and adolescents. This cross-sectional study included 402 university students (200 adolescents and 202 young adults) who underwent health checkups, genotyping, and lifestyle assessments (dietary habits, alcohol intake, and physical activity). Participants were genotyped for MBOAT7 rs641738 (C > T), categorized as CC versus non-CC (CT/TT), and stratified by MBOAT7 genotype and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratios. Logistic regression was used to identify lifestyle factors related to elevated LDL-C/HDL-C ratios using a threshold of 2.0. Sex-stratified analysis was also performed. Young adults with the CC genotype exhibited significantly higher LDL-C/HDL-C ratios than those with the non-CC genotype, despite similar lifestyle habits; no genotype differences were observed in adolescents. High soft drink consumption (OR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.08–1.58; P = 0.004) and low alcohol intake (OR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.15–0.79; P = 0.005) were independently related to LDL-C/HDL-C ≥ 2.0, with stronger effects in males. These associations were not observed in the non‑CC group. Sex differences were evident, with females more sensitive to low alcohol intake. Genetic susceptibility to atherogenic lipid profiles in young adults is linked to the MBOAT7 CC genotype and modifiable habits, particularly soft drink intake, with sex-specific effects. These findings suggest the importance of early genetic screening and personalized lifestyle interventions in preventing dyslipidemia and cardiovascular diseases. However, alcohol consumption has not been recommended as a preventive measure. These findings provide public health insights into early life interventions to reduce the future onset of dyslipidemia and cardiovascular diseases.
Kado et al. (Wed,) studied this question.