The Phenotype/Genotype Correlation of Lactase Persistence among Omani Adults.

OBJECTIVE To examine the correlation of lactase persistence phenotype with genotype in Omani adults. METHODS Lactase persistence phenotype was tested by hydrogen breath test in 52 Omani Adults using the Micro H2 analyzer. Results were checked against genotyping using direct DNA sequencing. RESULTS Forty one individuals with C/C-13910 and T/T-13915 genotypes had positive breath tests (≥20 ppm); while eight of nine individuals with T/C-13910 or T/G-13915 genotypes had negative breath tests (<20 ppm) and two subjects were non-hydrogen producers. The agreement between phenotype and genotype using Kappa value was very good (0.93). CONCLUSION Genotyping both T/C-13910 and T/G-13915 alleles can be used to assist diagnosis and predict lactose intolerance in the Omani population.