Possible association between TGF-β1 polymorphism and oral cancer

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Immunology
• Oncology

Background:

• Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) poses a significant global health challenge, contributing to cancer morbidity and mortality.
• Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) plays a crucial role in regulating immunomodulatory processes relevant to cancer development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential association between the TGF-β1 T869C polymorphism and the risk of developing oral cancer.
• To determine if specific genotypes of TGF-β1 T869C influence susceptibility to OSCC in smokers.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 62 male OSCC patients and 62 healthy male smokers.
• Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood for genotyping of the TGF-β1 T869C polymorphism.
• Statistical analysis was performed to compare allele and genotype frequencies between cases and controls and to assess relative risk.

Main Results:

• The C allele of the TGF-β1 T869C polymorphism was significantly more prevalent in the OSCC group.
• Individuals carrying the C allele had a 2.73-fold increased relative risk of developing oral cancer.
• The TT homozygous genotype demonstrated a protective effect, with an odds ratio of 0.37 for oral cancer.

Conclusions:

• The TGF-β1 T869C polymorphism, specifically the C allele, is associated with an increased risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma.
• The C allele may enhance TGF-β1 secretion, potentially suppressing anti-tumor immune responses and increasing OSCC risk.
• The TT genotype appears to confer a protective effect against oral cancer development.