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Methionine synthase A2756G transition might be a risk factor for male infertility: Evidences from seven case-control
Mohammad Karimian1, Abasalt Hosseinzadeh Colagar2
1Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran.
Abstract:
Methionine synthase (MTR) has a crucial role in DNA synthesis and methylation reactions. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of the MTR-A2756G polymorphism with idiopathic male infertility. Blood samples were collected from 217 idiopathic infertile- and 233 healthy-men, and MTR-A2756G genotyping was performed by PCR-RFLP. Meta-analysis was conducted by pooling our data with the data obtained from 6 previous studies. Also, the effects of this substitution on protein structure were evaluated by bioinformatics tools. Our study revealed the association of AG-genotype, GG-genotype, and G-allele with male infertility. Meta-analysis showed a significant association between A2756G transition and male infertility. In addition, structural analysis of the transition effect on protein revealed a significant influence on MTR function (with score: 38; expected accuracy: 66%). These findings suggest that the A2756G substitution might be a genetic risk factor and a potential biomarker for idiopathic male infertility.
Insights
The methionine synthase (MTR) A2756G gene variant is linked to male infertility. This genetic factor may serve as a biomarker for diagnosing idiopathic male infertility.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Methionine synthase (MTR) is vital for DNA synthesis and methylation.
- Genetic variations in MTR may influence male reproductive health.
- Idiopathic male infertility affects a significant portion of the population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between the MTR-A2756G polymorphism and idiopathic male infertility.
- To evaluate the impact of the A2756G substitution on MTR protein structure and function.
Main Methods:
- Genotyping of the MTR-A2756G polymorphism using PCR-RFLP in infertile men and healthy controls.
- Conducting a meta-analysis combining current data with previous studies.
- Utilizing bioinformatics tools to assess the structural effects of the A2756G substitution on MTR protein.
Main Results:
- The AG-genotype, GG-genotype, and G-allele of MTR were significantly associated with male infertility in the study cohort.
- Meta-analysis confirmed a significant association between the MTR A2756G transition and male infertility.
- Bioinformatics analysis indicated that the A2756G substitution significantly impacts MTR protein function.
Conclusions:
- The MTR A2756G polymorphism is a potential genetic risk factor for idiopathic male infertility.
- This genetic variation may serve as a predictive biomarker for male infertility.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms linking MTR A2756G to infertility.
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