Association of cell adhesion molecule gene polymorphisms with recurrent aphthous stomatitis

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Immunology
• Oral Medicine

Background:

• Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a prevalent oral ulcerative condition.
• Adhesion molecules like VCAM-1, E-selectin, and ICAM-1 are upregulated at ulcer sites, potentially promoting leukocyte infiltration.
• Gene polymorphisms in these adhesion molecules may influence RAS susceptibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between specific gene polymorphisms in selectins, ICAM, and VCAM and the susceptibility to RAS.
• To identify potential genetic markers for RAS risk.

Main Methods:

• Genotyping of six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in E-selectin, L-selectin, ICAM-1, ICAM-5, and VCAM-1 genes in 96 RAS cases and 153 controls from Jordan.
• Statistical analysis including chi-square and logistic regression to determine associations.
• Haplotype analysis using EH and Phase 2.1 programs.

Main Results:

• A significant association was found between the E-selectin rs5361 gene polymorphism (A allele, AA and AC genotypes) and increased RAS risk (Pcorr = 0.027).
• The TAA haplotype (rs2205849, rs5361, rs1805193) also showed a significant association with RAS (P = 0.03).
• No significant associations were observed for other tested SNPs.

Conclusions:

• This study provides the first evidence linking E-selectin rs5361 A allele and AA/AC genotypes to an elevated risk of recurrent aphthous stomatitis.
• Further research in diverse populations and functional studies are recommended to validate these findings and elucidate the underlying biological mechanisms.