Meta-analysis and systematic review for the genetic basis of cleft lip and palate

Cleft lip and palate (CLP) are a usually inherited anomaly described as a gap in the oral cavity's upper lip and/or roof. The etiology of CLP involves both genetic and environmental factors. The current study aimed to examine the genetic basis of nonsyndromic (NS) CLP (NSCL/P) and its association with specific genetic polymorphisms. We conducted a meta-analysis and systematic review of seven articles, which provided information on the correlation between genes and NSCL/P risk. Our results proved that the MTHFR c.677C > T polymorphism was correlated with the risk of NSCL/P, favoring the control group in the CC genotype and the cases group in the CT genotype. The TT genotype favored the control group. Additionally, the MTHFD1 1958G > A polymorphism was correlated with the high NSCL/P risk in children. However, the MTHFR C677T polymorphism did not show a significant correlation with NSCL/P risk in the analysis, although it was correlated with the high risk in specific populations. These results contribute to our knowledge about the genetic causes of NSCL/P and highlight the importance of specific genetic polymorphisms in its development. Further research is needed to explore the genetic mechanisms underlying NSCL/P in different populations and to elucidate its implications for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.