Association between klotho expression and malignancies risk and progression: A meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• The role of tissue klotho protein expression in malignancy development and progression is under investigation.
• Understanding this association may reveal novel therapeutic targets or biomarkers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the association between tissue klotho protein expression and the risk and progression of malignancies.
• To synthesize evidence from multiple studies to determine the overall impact of klotho expression on cancer outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted up to January 2018.
• Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.
• Fixed-effect or random-effect models were used based on heterogeneity to combine results from 18 recruited studies.

Main Results:

• Tissue klotho protein expression was associated with significantly lower odds of overall malignancies (p < 0.05).
• A markedly lower odds ratio for metastasis (95% CI 0.454-0.941) was observed in malignancies with klotho expression.
• Higher odds of early-stage disease (Stage I-II/III-IV) (95% CI 1.041-1.800) were noted with klotho expression, suggesting a potential role in early detection or slower progression.

Conclusions:

• Tissue klotho protein expression is significantly associated with a reduced risk and progression of malignancies.
• Klotho protein may function as a protective factor against the development and advancement of cancer.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying klotho's oncoprotective effects.