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Cytochrome P450c17alpha gene (CYP17) polymorphism predicts use of hormone replacement therapy
H S Feigelson1, R McKean-Cowdin, M C Pike
1Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California School of Medicine, University of Southern California/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles 90033-0800, USA.
Cancer Research
|August 27, 1999
Summary
Postmenopausal women with a specific gene variant (CYP17 A2/A2) were less likely to use hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This suggests hormone gene variations may impact HRT use and potentially influence breast cancer risk.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Endocrinology
- Reproductive Health
- Oncology
Background:
- Cytochrome P450c17alpha (CYP17) gene polymorphisms are linked to endogenous hormone levels.
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use is common among postmenopausal women.
- Understanding factors influencing HRT use is crucial for assessing associated health risks, including breast cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between a CYP17 gene polymorphism and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use in postmenopausal women.
- To determine if this genetic association varies across different racial/ethnic groups.
- To explore the potential implications of these findings on HRT-related breast cancer risk.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 749 postmenopausal women (ages 44-75) from a multiethnic cohort.
- Genotyping for the CYP17 gene polymorphism (A1/A1 vs. A2/A2).
- Assessed current HRT use and analyzed associations with genotype, race/ethnicity, and weight.
Main Results:
- Women with the CYP17 A2/A2 genotype were significantly less likely to be current HRT users compared to those with the A1/A1 genotype (OR=0.52).
- This reduced likelihood of HRT use associated with the A2/A2 genotype was consistent across African-American, Japanese, Latina, and white women.
- The association between CYP17 genotype and HRT use was observed in both women above and below the median weight of 150 pounds.
Conclusions:
- The CYP17 A2/A2 genotype is associated with lower rates of hormone replacement therapy use in postmenopausal women.
- Genetic predisposition, specifically CYP17 genotype, influences decisions regarding HRT.
- These findings may suggest that the breast cancer risk associated with HRT could be underestimated in previous studies, as women with certain genetic profiles are less likely to use HRT.