Association between the ICAM-1 gene polymorphism and coronary heart disease risk: a meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology

Background:

• Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a complex polygenic condition influenced by gene-environment interactions.
• The Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1 (ICAM-1) E469K polymorphism is frequently studied for its association with CHD risk, though findings have been inconsistent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a meta-analysis assessing the association between the ICAM-1 gene E469K polymorphism and coronary heart disease (CHD) risk.
• To resolve conflicting results from previous studies on this genetic association.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed on PubMed, Embase, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases up to November 2018.
• Case-control studies were included, and pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated.
• Meta-analysis included eleven studies with 3435 cases and 3199 controls.

Main Results:

• The ICAM-1 E469K polymorphism was significantly associated with an increased risk of CHD (OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.11-1.29 for K vs. E allele).
• K allele carriers showed a higher risk of CHD compared to EE genotype carriers (OR = 1.66, 95% CI = 1.43-1.92).
• Subgroup analyses confirmed these associations in both Chinese and Caucasian populations.

Conclusions:

• The ICAM-1 K469E polymorphism is associated with an elevated risk of coronary heart disease.
• The K allele of the ICAM-1 gene represents a significant risk factor for CHD development, especially in Chinese and Caucasian individuals.