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MTHFR polymorphism and the risk of prostate cancer: a meta-analysis of case-control studies

X-L Li1, J-H Xu

  • 1Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China. lixinli@suda.edu.cn

Prostate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases
|February 29, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

The 5,10-Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T gene variant may reduce prostate cancer risk. This meta-analysis found a protective effect, particularly in a recessive genetic model, for the 677T allele.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Oncology
  • Nutritional Biochemistry

Background:

  • 5,10-Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene polymorphisms are linked to cancer development.
  • Previous studies on MTHFR and prostate cancer risk have shown conflicting results.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To conduct a meta-analysis of case-control studies to investigate the association between MTHFR gene polymorphisms and prostate cancer risk.
  • To clarify the inconsistent findings regarding MTHFR polymorphisms and their role in prostate cancer susceptibility.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive literature search was performed on PubMed for relevant case-control studies.
  • Meta-analysis was used to pool data on MTHFR C677T and A1298C genotypes, calculating odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
  • Heterogeneity, publication bias, and sensitivity analyses were conducted to ensure the robustness of the findings.

Main Results:

  • The meta-analysis included 13 studies for MTHFR C677T (5872 cases, 6255 controls) and 9 studies for A1298C (2847 cases, 3657 controls).
  • The 677T allele showed a protective effect against prostate cancer risk in a recessive genetic model (pooled OR, 0.78; P=0.016).
  • No significant associations were found for other genetic models of C677T, the A1298C polymorphism, or in relation to prostate cancer aggressiveness.

Conclusions:

  • The C677T polymorphism in the MTHFR gene may offer a protective effect against prostate cancer susceptibility.
  • The MTHFR A1298C polymorphism was not found to be associated with prostate cancer risk.

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