Association between MTHFR (677C>T and 1298A>C) polymorphisms and psychiatric disorder: A meta-analysis.

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Psychiatry
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Genetic polymorphism of 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) has been implicated in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder (BD), and schizophrenia (SCZ).
• Previous studies have yielded inconsistent conclusions regarding the association between MTHFR gene polymorphisms and these psychiatric conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a meta-analysis investigating the relationship between MTHFR gene polymorphisms (677C>T and 1298A>C) and the occurrence of ADHD, BD, and SCZ.
• To consolidate existing evidence and provide a more definitive conclusion on these genetic associations.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed on the PubMed database to identify relevant case-control studies.
• Meta-analysis was conducted using a random effects model to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for MTHFR polymorphisms (677C>T and 1298A>C) in relation to ADHD, BD, and SCZ.
• Sensitivity analysis and publication bias assessments were performed to ensure the robustness of the findings.

Main Results:

• The meta-analysis included five studies for ADHD (434 cases, 670 controls), 18 studies for BD (4167 cases, 5901 controls), and 44 studies for SCZ (16,098 cases, 19913 controls).
• Significant associations were found between the MTHFR 677C>T polymorphism and the occurrence of BD and SCZ.
• The MTHFR 1298A>C polymorphism was found to be related to ADHD and BD. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the stability and reliability of these results.

Conclusions:

• The MTHFR 677C>T polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
• The MTHFR 1298A>C polymorphism is associated with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and bipolar disorder.
• These findings contribute valuable insights into the genetic underpinnings of psychiatric disorders, potentially informing future etiological research.