Association between the p53 polymorphisms and cervical cancer risk: an updated meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Genetics and Genomics
• Cancer Epidemiology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Conflicting findings exist regarding the association between p53 gene polymorphisms (rs1042522 and rs17878362) and cervical cancer risk.
• Previous studies and meta-analyses have yielded contradictory conclusions, necessitating further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct an updated meta-analysis to clarify the association between p53 rs1042522 and rs17878362 polymorphisms and the risk of developing cervical cancer.
• To critically evaluate the reliability of reported associations.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was performed across multiple databases (PubMed, Medline, Ovid, Embase, CNKI, China Wanfang).
• Statistical association was assessed using odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).
• The credibility of significant associations was evaluated using false-positive reporting probability (FPRP), Bayesian false-finding probability (BFDP), and Venice criteria.

Main Results:

• The p53 rs1042522 polymorphism initially appeared to decrease cervical cancer risk across various analyses and subgroups (e.g., Caucasians, Asians).
• No significant association was detected between the p53 rs17878362 polymorphism and cervical cancer risk.
• Reliability analyses (FPRP, BFDP, Venice criteria) indicated that all statistically significant associations for rs1042522 were deemed 'unreliable'.

Conclusions:

• The p53 rs1042522 polymorphism is not reliably associated with cervical cancer risk after considering the credibility of the findings.
• The p53 rs17878362 polymorphism is not associated with cervical cancer risk.