The CYP19A1 (TTTA)n Repeat Polymorphism May Affect the Prostate Cancer Risk: Evidence from a Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Oncology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Abnormal aromatase (CYP19A1) expression is implicated in prostate cancer (PCa) development.
• Previous studies on CYP19A1 gene polymorphisms and PCa risk have yielded conflicting results.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically evaluate the association between two CYP19A1 gene polymorphisms (Arg264Cys and (TTTA)n repeat) and PCa risk.
• To clarify the conflicting findings regarding CYP19A1 polymorphisms and their role in PCa carcinogenesis.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive meta-analysis of eligible studies identified through searches of PubMed, EmBase, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library.
• Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated for the Arg264Cys polymorphism under various genetic models.
• The (TTTA)n repeat polymorphism was analyzed by considering specific repeat numbers as the minor allele in an allelic model.

Main Results:

• The CYP19A1 Arg264Cys polymorphism was not associated with PCa risk in the overall population, Caucasian, or Asian subgroups.
• The 8-repeat allele of the CYP19A1 (TTTA)n repeat polymorphism was significantly associated with an increased risk of PCa in the overall population.
• This increased risk was also observed in subgroups with population-based (PB) controls and those using capillary electrophoresis for genotyping.

Conclusions:

• The CYP19A1 (TTTA)n repeat polymorphism, particularly the 8-repeat allele, may influence prostate cancer risk.
• The CYP19A1 Arg264Cys polymorphism does not appear to be a significant risk factor for prostate cancer.