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Prognostic role of common microRNA polymorphisms in cancers: evidence from a meta-analysis

Lingzi Xia1, Yangwu Ren1, Xue Fang1

  • 1Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Etiology and Intervention, University of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China.

Plos One
|October 23, 2014
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Specific microRNA genetic variations (polymorphisms) in mir-146a, mir-196a2, and mir-149 show potential links to cancer patient survival. However, mir-499 polymorphisms did not demonstrate a significant association with cancer prognosis.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Cancer imposes a significant global health burden, increasing morbidity and mortality annually.
  • Identifying prognostic biomarkers is crucial for improving cancer treatment efficacy and patient survival.
  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a vital role in cancer prognosis, but existing research on miRNA polymorphisms and cancer outcomes is inconsistent.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To conduct a meta-analysis investigating the association between common miRNA polymorphisms and cancer prognosis.
  • To evaluate the impact of specific miRNA polymorphisms (mir-146a, mir-149, mir-196a2, mir-499) on overall survival and recurrence in cancer patients.

Main Methods:

  • A meta-analysis was performed on 19 publications examining four common miRNA polymorphisms: mir-146a rs2910164, mir-149 rs2292832, mir-196a2 rs11614913, and mir-499 rs3746444.
  • Pooled Hazard Ratios and 95% Confidence Intervals were calculated for associations with Overall Survival, Recurrence-free Survival, and Disease-free survival.
  • Subgroup analyses were conducted based on population demographics and cancer types.

Main Results:

  • The GG genotype of mir-146a was associated with better overall survival, particularly in Caucasian populations.
  • C-containing genotypes of mir-196a2 were linked to poorer overall survival, observed across Asian populations, Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer, and digestive cancers.
  • The C allele of mir-149 correlated with improved overall survival, especially in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer patients.
  • No significant associations were found for mir-499 polymorphisms with cancer prognosis.

Conclusions:

  • Genetic polymorphisms in mir-146a, mir-196a2, and mir-149 are potentially associated with overall cancer survival.
  • The influence of these miRNA polymorphisms on prognosis can vary depending on the specific cancer type.
  • Genetic variations in mir-499 do not appear to be significantly related to cancer prognosis.

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