Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Gene Insertion/Deletion Polymorphism among the Tribal and Non-tribal Populations of Rajasthan

India has the unique distinction of having perhaps the largest diversities, both biological and cultural. The pattern of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) gene insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism in the Indian population is poorly known. Angiotensin converting enzyme plays an essential role in two physiological systems, one leading to the production of angiotensin II and the other to the degradation of bradykinin. The wide distribution and multifunctional properties of these peptides suggest that ACE could be involved in various pathophysiological conditions. The distribution of ACE I/D is worldwide, but its frequency in different populations varies extensively. In the present study, an attempt is made to estimate the genotypic and allelic frequency of ACE gene I/D polymorphism among tribe (Bhil) and non-tribe (Rajput) population. Results show the overrepresentation of ID genotype compared to II and DD genotype in both population groups. The difference between the two population groups is statistically significant with respect to genotype distribution (Chi-square value-4.328, p-value 0.11486474, df = 2). Allele frequency of D is found to be more among Bhils (0.62) while I among Rajputs (0.46).