THE ANGIOTENSIN-CONVERTING ENZYME AND BLOOD-PRESSURE IN JAMAICANS

An insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism of the angiotensin I converti ng enzyme gene influences the level of serum angiotensin converting en zyme activity and has been associated with risk of several cardiovascu lar conditions. The relationship to blood pressure remains uncertain, however. We conducted a population-based survey in Kingston, Jamaica, to examine the association between angiotensin converting enzyme genot ype, angiotensin converting enzyme serum activity and blood pressure. Serum angiotensin converting enzyme activity was measured and genotypi ng performed for the I/D polymorphism in 500 community residents. The overall prevalence of the D allele was 59.3%. Angiotensin converting e nzyme genotype was not significantly related to blood pressure (P = .1 6), although it did influence angiotensin-converting enzyme activity, leading to an increase of 35% among individuals with the DD as compare d with II genotype. Angiotensin converting enzyme levels were signific antly higher in hypertensives as compared with normotensives (P < .05) . A modest correlation was observed between blood pressure and angiote nsin converting enzyme activity among untreated individuals (r = 0.11; P = .04), although this did not persist in multivariate analysis. A r elationship between body mass index and angiotensin converting enzyme activity was identified in both men and women that was independent of genotype. These data demonstrate findings among blacks which are consi stent with other studies and suggest a relationship between angiotensi n converting enzyme genotype, and serum activity which is influenced b y both genetic and environmental factors. The potential role of ACE on blood pressure control in the population remains uncertain. (C) 1997 American Journal of Hypertension, Ltd.