Genetic polymorphism of erythrocyte acid phosphatase in Indian populations.

The polymorphism of erythrocyte acid phosphatase has been investigated in seven endogamous caste groups of Patiala and Faridkot districts of Punjab in north-west India. The frequency of the Pa allele in these groups varies from 26.8 to 38.3%, but there is no evidence for any significant heterogeneity in the total sample. The Pc allele is present in some of the groups, though in non-polymorphic proportions. Furthermore, the distribution of this polymorphism in Indian populations has been examined using gene frequency data available in the literature. The present study shows that while no clinal component is discernible in the distribution of this red cell enzyme in India, the populations of north India stand out with comparatively high Pa and Pc frequencies, and in almost all regions the incidence of these two alleles is higher in the non-tribals as compared to the tribals. The possible causes of this heterogeneity are discussed.