Genetic variations of mTORC1 genes and risk of gastric cancer in an Eastern Chinese population

miRNA-767 and its binding site polymorphism in the mTOR gene act as potential biomarkers for female reproductive cancers

Aims: The present study aimed to understand the relationship between the mTOR gene SNP (rs2536) and reproductive cancer risk. The expression level of miRNA-767 was also assessed. Methods: 700 tumor samples (300 breast, 200 ovarian and 200 cervical cancers), along with adjacent uninvolved control tissue, were used. rs2536 was screened using Tetra-ARMS PCR and expression level of miRNA-767 was assessed using quantitative PCR. Results: The frequency of the homozygous mutant genotype of rs2536 was observed significantly higher in breast (p < 0.04), ovarian (p < 0.005) and cervical (p < 0.003) cancers. Significant downregulation of miRNA-767 was observed in tumors compared with controls. Conclusion: The present study demonstrates that increased mutant frequency of rs2536 and deregulation of miRNA-767 are associated with increased reproductive cancer risk.

mTOR pathway candidate genes and energy intake interaction on breast cancer risk in Black women from the Women's Circle of Health Study

BACKGROUND

Excessive energy intake has been shown to affect the mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway and breast cancer risk. It is not well understood whether there are gene-environment interactions between mTOR pathway genes and energy intake in relation to breast cancer risk.

METHODS

The study included 1642 Black women (809 incident breast cancer cases and 833 controls) from the Women's Circle of Health Study (WCHS). We examined interactions between 43 candidate single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 20 mTOR pathway genes and quartiles of energy intake in relation to breast cancer risk overall and by ER- defined subtypes using Wald test with a 2-way interaction term.

RESULTS

AKT1 rs10138227 (C > T) was only associated with a decreased overall breast cancer risk among women in quartile (Q)2 of energy intake, odds ratio (OR) = 0.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.40, 0.91 (p-interaction = 0.042). Similar results were found in ER- tumors. AKT rs1130214 (C > A) was associated with decreased overall breast cancer risk in Q2 (OR = 0.63, 95% CI 0.44, 0.91) and Q3 (OR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.48, 0.89) (p-interaction = 0.026). HIF-1α C1772T rs11549465 (C > T) was associated with decreased overall breast cancer risk in Q4 (OR = 0.29, 95% CI 0.14, 0.59, p-interaction = 0.007); the results were similar in ER+ tumors. These interactions became non-significant after correction for multiple comparisons.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that mTOR genetic variants may interact with energy intake in relation to breast cancer risk, including the ER- subtype, in Black women. Future studies should confirm these findings.

Associations of Genetic Polymorphisms of mTOR rs2295080 T/G and rs1883965 G/A with Susceptibility of Urinary System Cancers

Background. Genetic polymorphisms in mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling axis can influence the susceptibility of cancer. The relationship between mTOR gene variants rs2295080 T/G and rs1883965 G/A and the risk of cancer remains inconsistent. The present study is aimed at comprehensively investigating the association between mTOR polymorphisms and susceptibility to cancer. Methods. We conducted a comprehensive assessment using odds ratios (ORs), corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and in silico tools to evaluate the effect of mTOR variations. Immunohistochemical staining (IHS) and GSEA analysis were used to investigate the expression of mTOR in urinary system cancer. Results. The pooled analysis involved 22 case-control studies including 14,747 cancer patients and 16,399 controls. The rs2295080 T/G polymorphism was associated with the risk of cancer (G-allele versus T-allele, $\text{OR}=0.89$ , $95\%\text{CI}=0.80$ –0.98, $P=0.023$ ; GT versus TT, $\text{OR}=0.88$ , $95\%\text{CI}=0.81$ –0.96, $P=0.004$ ; GG+GT versus TT, $\text{OR}=0.87$ , $95\%\text{CI}=0.78$ –0.96, $P=0.008$ ), especially for cancers of the urinary system, breast, and blood. Variation rs1883965 G/A was associated with cancer susceptibility, especially for digestive cancer. IHS analysis showed that mTOR was upregulated in prostate and bladder cancer. GSEA revealed that the insulin signaling pathway, lysine degradation pathway, and mTOR signaling pathway were enriched in the high mTOR expression group. Conclusions. The mTOR rs2295080 T/G polymorphism may be associated with susceptibility of urinary cancer. The expression of mTOR is positively correlated with tumor malignancy in prostate cancer.

Association between rs20456 and rs6930913 of Kinesin-Like Family 6 and Hypertension in a Chinese Cohort

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between kinesin-like family 6 (KIF6) polymorphisms and hypertension in a northeast Chinese cohort. In this study, two single nucleotide polymorphisms of KIF6 (rs20456 and rs6930913) and their haplotype were analyzed in 382 hypertension patients and 378 controls with SHEsis analysis platform, and the gene-environmental interactions were evaluated with logistic regression analysis. After adjusting for confounding factors, significantly lower risk of hypertension was observed in participants with genotype TC (0.416 (CI 0.299–0.578), p < 0.001) and CC (0.577 (0.389–0.857), p=0.007) of rs20456 compared with TT. For rs6930913, allele T (0.522 (0.386–0.704), p < 0.001), genotype TT (0.325 (0.205–0.515), p < 0.001), and genotype CT (0.513 (0.379–0.693), p < 0.001) were significantly associated with lower risk of hypertension than allele C and CC genotype, respectively. Gene-environment analyses confirmed the significant influence on hypertension by the interactions between genotypes distribution in rs20456 (CT: p=0.036, TT: p=0.022) and smoking status. No interactions were found between smoking and rs6930913, except those with dominant or recessive genetic models (both P_s=0.006). There were no interactions between KIF6 and overweight (all P_s > 0.05). Haplotype analyses showed that CC (p=0.005) and TC (p=0.001) of rs20456 and rs6930913 were significantly associated with a statistically increased risk of hypertension. The false-positive report probability (FPRP) analysis was used to verify significant findings. In conclusions, KIF6 might affect the susceptibility of hypertension. The allele C (rs20456) and allele T (rs690913) were inclined to protect individuals from hypertension both in genotype and haplotype analyses.

METTL14 gene polymorphisms decrease Wilms tumor susceptibility in Chinese children

BACKGROUND

Wilms tumor is a highly heritable malignancy. Aberrant METTL14, a critical component of N6-methyladenosine (m⁶A) methyltransferase, is involved in carcinogenesis. The association between genetic variants in the METTL14 gene and Wilms tumor susceptibility remains to be fully elucidated. We aimed to assess whether variants within this gene are implicated in Wilms tumor susceptibility.

METHODS

A total of 403 patients and 1198 controls were analyzed. METTL14 genotypes were assessed by TaqMan genotyping assay.

RESULT

Among the five SNPs analyzed, rs1064034 T > A and rs298982 G > A exhibited a significant association with decreased susceptibility to Wilms tumor. Moreover, the joint analysis revealed that the combination of five protective genotypes exerted significantly more protective effects against Wilms tumor than 0-4 protective genotypes with an OR of 0.69. The stratified analysis further identified the protective effect of rs1064034 T > A, rs298982 G > A, and combined five protective genotypes in specific subgroups. The above significant associations were further validated by haplotype analysis and false-positive report probability analysis. Preliminary mechanism exploration indicated that rs1064034 T > A and rs298982 G > A are correlated with the expression and splicing event of their surrounding genes.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, our results suggest that METTL14 gene SNPs may be genetic modifiers for the development of Wilms tumor.

Meta-analysis of the association between mTORC1-related genes polymorphisms and cancer risk

BACKGROUND

mTOR, mLST8 and RAPTOR are the core components of mTORC1, which has been found to be closely related to tumorigenesis. Currently, multiple single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in mTOR gene (rs2295080, rs17036508 and rs1034528), mLST8 gene (rs3160 and rs26865) and RPTOR gene (rs1062935, rs3751932, rs3751834, rs12602885) have been extensively studied for their associations with cancer risk. However, the results remained inconclusive and conflicting. Therefore, we here performed a meta-analysis of all available studies to investigate the association between these SNPs and cancer risk.

METHODS

Up to April 2021, 25 related publications were retrieved and included in this meta-analysis. The odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) calculated by fixed or random effects models were applied to assess the strength of association. Trial Sequential Analysis (TSA) was conducted to weaken the random error and enhance the reliability of evidence.

RESULTS

After Bonferroni correction, it was revealed that rs3160, rs26865, rs1062935, rs3751932, rs3751834 and rs10602885 were not associated with cancer risk. However, rs17036508 and rs1034528 showed significant association with total cancer risk. A significant association was also found between rs2295080 and total cancer risk, and stratified analysis by cancer type suggested that rs2295080 was specifically associated with acute lymphoblastic leukemia risk, prostate cancer risk, and breast cancer risk.

CONCLUSIONS

The present meta-analysis suggested that the rs2295080, rs17036508 and rs1034528 polymorphisms in mTOR gene may be the susceptive factors for cancer development, while the target genetic polymorphisms in mLST8 gene or RPTOR gene may not be associated with cancer risk. However, these findings remain to be confirmed or further reinforced in large and well-designed studies in different ethnic populations.

Association between functional genetic variants in retinoid X receptor-α/γ and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus in a southern Chinese population

To clarify the effect of retinoid X receptor-α/γ (RXR-α/γ) genes functional genetic variants (RXR-α rs4842194 G>A, RXR-γ rs100537 A>G and rs2134095 T>C) on the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), a case–control study with 573 GDM patients and 740 pregnant women with normal glucose tolerance was performed in Guangxi area of China. An odds ratio (OR) with its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to assess the strengths of the association between genetic variation and GDM. After adjustment of age and pre-BMI, the logistic regression analysis showed that the rs2134095 was significantly associated with GDM risk (CC vs. TT/TC: adjusted OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.56–0.90) in all subjects, and this result remained highly significant after Bonferroni’s correction for multiple testing (P=0.004). The stratified analysis showed that rs2134095 was significantly associated with the risk of GDM among age > 30 years (adjusted OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.39–0.97), BMI > 22 kg/m² (adjusted OR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.30–0.70), systolic blood pressure (SBP) > 120 mmHg (adjusted OR = 1.96, 95% CI = 1.14–3.36), glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) < 6.5% (adjusted OR = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.11–1.78), TG ≤ 1.7 mmol/l (adjusted OR = 2.57, 95% CI = 1.45–4.53), TC ≤ 5.18 mmol/l (adjusted OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.13–2.22), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) ≤ 1.5 mmol/l (adjusted OR = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.16–2.49) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) > 3.12 mmol/l (adjusted OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.08–2.00) subjects, under the recessive genetic model. We also found that rs2134095 interacted with age (P_interaction=0.039), pre-BMI (P_interaction=0.040) and TG (P_interaction=0.025) influencing individual’s genetic susceptibility to GDM. The rs2134095 T>C is significantly associated with the risk of GDM by effect of a single locus and/or complex joint gene–gene and gene–environment interactions. Larger sample-size and different population studies are required to confirm the findings.

The effects of MIR137HG genetic polymorphisms on the susceptibility of alcohol-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head in a Chinese male population

BACKGROUNDS

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is one of the common and complicated diseases in the orthopedic clinic. Previous studies indicate that genetic factors play a crucial role in the occurrence of ONFH. This case-control study aimed to investigate the associations of MIR137HG genetic polymorphisms with the alcohol-induced ONFH risk.

METHODS

A total of 731 participants were recruited to detect the effect of MIR137HG SNPs on the alcohol-induced ONFH risk in a Chinese male population. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to evaluate the associations. Multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) was used to analyze the SNP-SNP interaction with the alcohol-induced ONFH risk.

RESULTS

Our study showed that rs7549905 played a protective role in alcohol-induced ONFH risk (OR 0.57, p = 0.045). Stratified analysis indicated that rs9440302 was associated with an increased risk of patients aged >45 years (OR 2.00, p = 0.038), and rs7549905 showed a reduced risk in patients aged ≤ 45 years (OR 0.43, p = 0.023). In addition, we found that rs9440302 and rs7554283 exhibited a significantly increased susceptibility of III-IV grade alcohol-induced ONFH patients (OR 2.34, p = 0.003; OR 2.13, p = 0.011, respectively). We also observed that rs12138817 was related to an increased risk in patients with >21 months of course (OR 1.77, p = 0.043). Interestingly, rs17371457 showed a significant correlation with low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (p = 0.040).

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that MIR137HG genetic variants are associated with the alcohol-induced ONFH susceptibility in a Chinese male population, which may give scientific evidence for exploring molecular mechanisms of the alcohol-induced ONFH.

mTOR pathway and DNA damage response: A therapeutic strategy in cancer therapy

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a conserved serine/threonine-protein kinase, comprising two subunit protein complexes: mTORC1 and mTORC2. In response to insult and cancer, the mTOR pathway plays a crucial role in regulating growth, metabolism, cell survival, and protein synthesis. Key subunits of mTORC1/2 catalyze the phosphorylation of various molecules, including eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E binding protein 1 (4E-BP1), ribosomal protein S6 kinase β-1 (S6K1). The DNA damage response (DDR) maintains genomic stability and provides an opportunity for treating tumors with defects caused by DNA damaging agents. Many mTOR inhibitors are utilized for the treatment of cancers. However, several clinical trials are still assessing the efficacy of mTOR inhibitors. This paper discusses the role of the mTOR signaling pathway and its regulators in developing cancer. In the following, we will review the interaction between DDR and mTOR signaling and the innovative therapies applied in preclinical and clinical trials for treating cancers.

Comprehensive analysis of the effect of rs2295080 and rs2536 polymorphisms within the mTOR gene on cancer risk

There is still no conclusion on the potential effect of the rs2295080 and rs2536 polymorphisms of mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) gene on different cancers. Herein, we performed a comprehensive assessment using pooled analysis, FPRP (false-positive report probability), TSA (trial sequential analysis), and eQTL (expression quantitative trait loci) analysis. Eighteen high-quality articles from China were enrolled. The pooled analysis of rs2295080 with 9502 cases and 10,965 controls showed a decreased risk of urinary system tumors and specific prostate cancers [TG vs. TT, TG+GG vs. TT and G vs. T; P<0.05, OR (odds ratio) <1]. FPRP and TSA data further confirmed these results. There was an increased risk of leukemia [G vs. T, GG vs. TT, and GG vs. TT+TG genotypes; P<0.05, OR>1]. The eQTL data showed a potential correlation between the rs2295080 and mTOR expression in whole blood samples. Nevertheless, FPRP and TSA data suggested that more evidence is required to confirm the potential role of rs2295080 in leukemia risk. The pooled analysis of rs2536 (6653 cases and 7025 controls) showed a significant association in the subgroup of "population-based" control source via the allele, heterozygote, dominant, and carrier comparisons (P<0.05, OR>1). In conclusion, the TG genotype of mTOR rs2295080 may be linked to reduced susceptibility to urinary system tumors or specific prostate cancers in Chinese patients. The currently data do not strongly support a role of rs2295080 in leukemia susceptibility. Large sample sizes are needed to confirm the potential role of rs2536 in more types of cancer.

Association between NER pathway gene polymorphisms and neuroblastoma risk in an eastern Chinese population

Neuroblastoma is a common childhood malignancy. Nucleotide excision repair (NER) polymorphisms have been shown to influence cancer susceptibility by modifying DNA repair efficiency. To investigate the association of NER gene polymorphisms with neuroblastoma risk, we constructed a three-center case-control study. A total of 19 candidate single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in NER genes were analyzed. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidential intervals (CIs) were calculated to evaluate the associations. We identified five independent SNPs that were significantly associated with neuroblastoma risk, including XPA rs1800975 (dominant model: adjusted OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.55-0.98, p = 0.033), XPA rs3176752 (recessive model: adjusted OR = 2.78, 95% CI = 1.12-6.91, p = 0.028), XPD rs3810366 (dominant: adjusted OR = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.05-1.97, p = 0.022; recessive: adjusted OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.18-2.11, p = 0.002), XPD rs238406 (dominant: adjusted OR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.48-0.84, p = 0.002; recessive: adjusted OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.48-0.94, p = 0.021), and XPG rs2094258 (recessive: adjusted OR = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.03-2.04, p = 0.036). Stratified analysis was carried out. Furthermore, these findings were strengthened by false-positive report probability (FPRP) analysis and expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analysis. In conclusion, our study indicates that five SNPs in NER genes are correlated with neuroblastoma susceptibility in the eastern Chinese population, providing novel insight into the genetic underpinnings of neuroblastoma. However, further large-scale studies are required to verify these findings.

Noriega L, Tovar A, Alegría-Torres JA. Polymorphisms of the genes ABCG2, SLC22A12 and XDH and their relation with hyperuricemia and hypercholesterolemia in Mexican young adults

Background: Hyperuricemia is a pathological condition associated with risk factors of cardiovascular disease. In this study, three genetic polymorphisms were genotyped as predisposing factors of hyperuricemia. Methods: A total of 860 Mexicans (129 cases and 731 controls) between 18 and 25 years of age were genotyped for the ABCG2 (Q191K),  SLC22A12 (517G>A), and  XDH (518T>C) polymorphisms, as predisposing factors of hyperuricemia. Biochemical parameters were measured by spectrophotometry, while genetic polymorphisms were analyzed by real-time PCR. An analysis of the risk of hyperuricemia in relation to the variables studied was carried out using a logistic regression. Results: Male sex, being overweight or obese, having hypercholesterolemia or having hypertriglyceridemia were factors associated with hyperuricemia ( p ≤ 0.05). The ABCG2 polymorphism was associated with hyperuricemia (OR = 2.43, 95% CI: 1.41-4.17, p = 0.001) and hypercholesterolemia (OR = 4.89, 95% CI: 1.54-15.48, p = 0.003), employing a dominant model, but only in male participants. Conclusions: The ABCG2 (Q191K) polymorphism increases the risk of hyperuricemia and hypercholesterolemia in young Mexican males.

Association between microRNA-146a, -499a and -196a-2 SNPs and non-small cell lung cancer: a case-control study involving 2249 subjects

MicroRNA (miR) acts as a negative regulator of gene expression. Many literatures have suggested that miRs may be involved in the process of cell proliferation, inflammation, oxidative stress, energy metabolism and epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Thus, miRs may be implicated in the occurrence of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In the current investigation, we included 2249 subjects (1193 NSCLC patients and 1056 controls) and designed a study to identify the relationship of miR-146a rs2910164 C/G, -499a rs3746444 A/G and -196a-2 rs11614913 T/C with the risk of NSCLC. The risk factors (e.g., body mass index (BMI), sex, smoking, drinking and age) was used to adjust the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). After conducting a power value assessment, we did not confirm that the miR-single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) genotypic distributions were different in NSCLC cases and controls. However, the association of miR-196a-2 rs11614913 with a decreased risk of NSCLC was identified in the female subgroup (adjusted P=0.005, power = 0.809 for TC vs. TT, and adjusted P=0.004, power = 0.849 for CC/TC vs. TT). In addition, gene–gene interaction analysis showed that rs11614913 TC/3746444 AA and rs11614913 CC/rs3746444 AA could also reduce the susceptibility to NSCLC (rs11614913 TC/rs3746444 AA vs. rs11614913 TT/rs3746444 AA, P=0.001, power = 0.912 and rs11614913 CC/rs3746444 AA vs. rs11614913 TT/rs3746444 AA, P=0.003, power = 0.836). In conclusion, in overall comparisons, we did not confirm that the rs2910164, rs3746444, and rs11614913 SNPs genotypic distributions were different in NSCLC cases and controls. However, this case–control study demonstrates that miR-196a-2 rs11614913 may be a protective factor for the development of NSCLC among female patients.

CDK5 Regulatory Subunit-Associated Protein 1-Like 1 Gene Polymorphisms and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Risk: A Trial Sequential Meta-Analysis of 13,306 Subjects

OBJECTIVES

The CDK5 regulatory subunit-associated protein 1-like 1 (CDKAL1) contributes to islet β-cell function and insulin secretion by inhibiting the activation of CDK5. The current studies on the relationship between CDKAL1 polymorphisms rs7756992 A>G and rs7754840 C>G and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have drawn contradictory conclusions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A meta-analysis with a fixed- or random-effects model was conducted to estimate the correlation between studied CDKAL1 polymorphisms and GDM risk with the summary odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). In addition, trial sequential analysis (TSA) and false-positive report probability (FPRP) analysis were performed to confirm the study findings.

RESULTS

A total of 13,306 subjects were included in the present study. Meta-analysis results showed that the variant heterozygous and homozygous genotypes of the two polymorphisms were associated with increased GDM risk in comparison with the wild-type AA genotype (AG vs. AA: OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.08, 1.41, p = 0.002; GG vs. AA: OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.05, 2.05, p = 0.024 for rs7756992; and CG vs. GG: OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.13, 1.65, p = 0.002; CC vs. GG: OR = 1.76, 95% CI = 1.37, 2.26, p < 0.001 for rs7754840). The TSA confirmed a significant association between rs7754840 and the susceptibility to GDM because the cumulative Z-curve crossed both the conventional cutoff value and the TSA boundaries under the heterozygote and homozygote models.

CONCLUSIONS

This study supported the finding that rs7756992 and rs7754840 are associated with susceptibility to GDM. However, further functional studies are warranted to clarify the mechanism.

Association of the hOGG1 Ser326Cys polymorphism with gynecologic cancer susceptibility: a meta-analysis

The association between the hOGG1 Ser326Cys polymorphism and gynecologic cancer susceptibility is inconclusive. We performed a comprehensive meta-analysis to precisely estimate of the impact of the hOGG1 Ser326Cys polymorphism on gynecologic cancer susceptibility. Electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, WanFang, and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure were searched for relevant studies. Odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were determined to assess the strength of the association. Fourteen studies with 2712 cases and 3638 controls were included in the final meta-analysis. The pooled analysis yielded a significant association between the hOGG1 Ser326Cys polymorphism and overall gynecologic cancer susceptibility (dominant model: OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.03–1.30, P=0.017). A significantly higher gynecologic cancer risk was found for the European population (homozygous model: OR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.80–2.61, P<0.001; recessive model: OR = 2.11, 95% CI = 1.41–3.17, P<0.001; dominant model: OR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.12–1.48, P<0.001; and allele model: OR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.13–1.74, P=0.002), but not in the Asian population. The stratified analysis by cancer type revealed endometrial cancer was significantly associated with the hOGG1 Ser326Cys polymorphism (dominant model: OR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.09–1.54, P=0.003; and allele model: OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.02–1.60, P=0.031). In conclusion, the hOGG1 Ser326Cys polymorphism was associated with higher overall gynecologic cancer susceptibility, especially for endometrial cancer in the European population.

Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Gene Polymorphisms Increase Susceptibility to Adenovirus Infection in Children and Are Correlated with Severity of Adenovirus-Associated Pneumonia

Objective: To study the relationships between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the intron of the tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) gene and the susceptibility and severity of disease associated with adenovirus infection in children. Methods: Four polymorphic loci of the TNFα gene (rs3093661, rs1800610, rs3093662, and rs3093664) were characterized allelically and genotypically in 320 children with adenovirus-associated pneumonia (AP) and compared with 320 healthy controls. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were used to detect the plasma TNFα protein levels in all subjects. Results: The TNFα gene rs3093661 locus A allele, the rs1800610 locus A allele, the rs3093662 locus G allele, and the rs3093664 locus G allele were identified as susceptibility alleles for development of AP, and they were also positively correlated with the severity of AP. In children who had the GGAA haplotype, AP susceptibility was significantly reduced (0.28-fold) (95% confidence interval, CI: 0.20-0.40, p < 0.001). Conversely, among the subjects with the AGGG haplotype, their AP susceptibility risk was significantly increased (2.76-fold) (95% CI: 1.77-4.29, p < 0.001); and in the subjects with the AP GGGG haplotype their AP susceptibility risk was significantly increased (2.49-fold) (95% CI: 1.67-3.72, p < 0.001). The TNFα rs3093661, rs1800610, rs3093662, and rs3093664 SNPs were significantly correlated with plasma TNFα levels (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The TNFα gene rs3093661, rs1800610, rs3093662, and rs3093664 loci are associated with AP susceptibility and severity. This relationship might be due to the effect on TNFα levels found in the plasma. Clinical Trial Registration number: LL20190723.

A functional polymorphism rs10830963 in melatonin receptor 1B associated with the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus

The melatonin receptor 1B (MTNR1B) polymorphism rs10830963 C>G has been reported to be associated with the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) with inconsistent results. To clarify the effect of the polymorphism on the risk of GDM, a meta-analysis therefore was performed. Pooled OR with its corresponding 95%CI was used to estimate the strength of the association. Totally 14 eligible studies with a number of 5033 GDM patients and 5614 controls were included in this meta-analysis. Results indicated that the variant G allele was significantly associated with an increased GDM risk (CG vs. CC: OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.11−1.40, P < 0.001; GG vs. CC: OR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.45−2.19, P < 0.001; G vs. C: OR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.21−1.47, P < 0.001). In the stratified analysis by ethnicity, similar results were found in Asians (CG vs. CC: OR = 1.15, 95%CI = 1.02−1.28, P = 0.020; GG vs. CC: OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.23−1.89, P < 0.001; G vs. C: OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.10−1.37, P < 0.001) and in Caucasians (CG vs. CC: OR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.16−1.70, P < 0.001; GG vs. CC: OR = 2.21, 95% CI = 1.54−3.17, P < 0.001; G vs. C: OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.24−1.73, P < 0.001). FPRP and TSA analyses confirmed findings support that the rs10830963 G allele increases the risk of GDM, and further functional experimental studies are warranted to explore and clarify the potential mechanism.

Association study of genetic variants at TTC32-WDR35 gene cluster with coronary artery disease in Chinese Han population

Background

TTC32‐WDR35 gene cluster has been genome‐wide significantly associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the common variants in this region contributing to CAD risk remain elusive.

Methods

We performed a case‐control study enrolling 935 CAD cases and 935 age‐sex‐frequency‐matched controls from unrelated southwest Chinese Han population. Five variants were determined by TaqMan assay.

Results

This study indicated that rs721932 CG genotype was associated with CAD risk (OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.54‐0.86; P = .001). Stratified analysis showed that the risk associated with rs12617744 AA genotype was robust in male (OR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.42‐0.93, P = .02). The gene dosage of the risk allele at rs12617744 showed a significant association with left circumflex artery disease (P = .027) and the number of vascular lesions in patients (P = .034). Moreover, the gene dosage of rs721932 risk allele was associated with vascular lesion numbers (P = .048) and the progression of CAD (P = .028). Compared with carriers of major alleles, the AA genotype of rs12617744 and GG genotype of rs721932 were both associated with plasma HDL level (P = .009 and 0.004, respectively). Expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) results showed significantly different TTC32 expression of subjects as a function of SNPs (rs2278528, rs7594214, and rs721932) genotype in the artery. Besides, FPRP analysis did support the strong links between polymorphisms and CAD risk.

Conclusions

SNP rs721932 at TTC32‐WDR35 Gene Cluster was associated with CAD risk, and rs12617744 was associated with the risk of CAD among males. Both SNPs may contribute to the regulation of plasma HDL levels and possibly to the severity of CAD in Chinese Han population.

-196 to -174del, rs4696480, rs3804099 polymorphisms of Toll-like receptor 2 gene impact the susceptibility of cancers: evidence from 37053 subjects

Relationship between Toll-like receptor-2 (TLR2) and cancer risk has been illustrated in some studies, but their conclusions are inconsistent. Therefore, we designed this meta-analysis to explore a more accurate conclusion of whether TLR2 affects cancer risks. Articles were retrieved from various literature databases according to the criteria. We used STATA to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) to evaluate the relationship between certain polymorphism of TLR2 and cancer risk. Finally, 47 case-control studies met the criteria, comprising 15851 cases and 21182 controls. In the overall analysis, people are more likely to get cancer because of -196 to -174del in TLR2 in all five genetic models, B vs. A (OR = 1.468, 95% Cl = 1.129-1.91, P=0.005); BB vs. AA (OR = 1.716, 95% Cl = 1.178-2.5, P=0.005); BA vs. AA (OR = 1.408, 95% Cl = 1.092-1.816, P=0.008); BB+BA vs. AA (OR = 1.449, 95% Cl = 1.107-1.897, P=0.007); BB vs. BA+AA (OR = 1.517, 95% Cl = 1.092-2.107, P=0.013). Meanwhile, rs4696480 could significantly increase the risk of cancer in Caucasians, furthermore, rs3804099 significantly decreased cancer risk in overall analysis, but more subjects are necessary to confirm the results. All in all, this meta-analysis revealed that not only -196 to -174del increased the risk of among overall cancers, Caucasians are more likely to get cancer because of rs4696480, while rs3804099 polymorphism could reduce the risk of cancer in some genetic models. There is no direct evidence showing that rs5743708, rs3804100 and rs1898830 are related to cancer.

Correlation between single nucleotide polymorphisms in CXCR4 microRNA binding site and the susceptibility to knee osteoarthritis in Han Chinese population

Background

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at the microRNA target sequence in CXCR4 and the susceptibility to knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

Methods

A total of 305 patients with KOA and 305 healthy controls were recruited into this study. The genotypes of CXCR4 rs1804029 and rs17848060 loci were analyzed.

Results

The susceptibility to KOA of CXCR4 rs1804029 G allele carriers was 1.33 times (95% CI: 1.09‐1.54, P = .006) that of T allele carriers. The KOA susceptibility in individuals carrying T allele at CXCR4 rs17848060 locus was 1.38 times that of individuals carrying A allele (95% CI: 1.17‐1.57, P < .001). The G allele at CXCR4 rs1804029 locus was the target of hsa‐miR‐146a‐3p, while the A allele at CXCR4 rs17848060 locus could be targeted by hsa‐miR‐20a‐3p. The plasma level of hsa‐miR‐146a‐3p was lower in rs1804029 G allele carriers than T allele carriers (P < .001), whereas plasma level of hsa‐miR‐20a‐3p was higher in rs17848060 T allele carriers than A allele carriers (P < .001).

Conclusion

The SNPs at rs1804029 and rs17848060 loci in CXCR4 were significantly associated with the susceptibility to KOA in Han Chinese population.

WTAP Gene Variants Confer Hepatoblastoma Susceptibility: A Seven-Center Case-Control Study

Hepatoblastoma is a rare disease, and its etiology remains to be revealed. Wilms tumor suppressor-1-associated protein (WTAP) plays a critical role in tumorigenesis. However, whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the WTAP gene predispose to hepatoblastoma risk awaits to be investigated. With the use of the TaqMan assay, we evaluated the genotype frequencies of three WTAP SNPs (rs7766006 G > T, rs9457712 G > A, and rs1853259 A > G) in Chinese children with 313 hepatoblastoma patients and 1,446 controls. Among these three SNPs, only the rs7766006 T allele exhibited a significant association with hepatoblastoma risk (GT versus GG: adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.53-0.92, p = 0.009; GT/TT versus GG: adjusted OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.57-0.95, p = 0.017). Combined analysis indicated that subjects with two risk genotypes showed significantly higher hepatoblastoma risk, compared to individuals without a risk genotype (adjusted OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.02-1.88, p = 0.037). The stratified analysis revealed that the rs1853259 GG genotype, the rs7766006 GT/TT genotype, and two risk genotypes modified hepatoblastoma risk in certain subgroups. The significant results were validated by haplotype analyses and false-positive report probability analyses. Furthermore, the expression quantitative trait locus analysis indicated that rs7766006 T was associated with decreased expression of WTAP mRNA. Collectively, our results suggest that WTAP SNPs may be genetic modifiers for the development of hepatoblastoma.

Investigation of BTLA tagging variants with risk of esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma

Background: Variants in B- and T-lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA) gene are likely to affect the function of BTLA protein.

Methods: In the present case–control study, we selected BTLA tagging single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (rs16859629 T>C, rs1982809 G>A, rs2171513 G>A and rs3112270 A>G) and conducted a case–control study to identify the association of BTLA SNPs with risk of esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma (EGJA). The present study involved 1236 new incident EGJA cases and 1540 cancer-free controls.

Results: The genotypes of BTLA SNPs were analyzed using a SNPscan Kit. No association was also found between the BTLA SNPs and the susceptibility of EGJA in overall comparsion. In subgroup analyses, the BTLA rs1982809 was found to be associated with an increased susceptibility of EGJA (AA versus GG: OR^adjusted = 2.09, 95% CI 1.08–4.07, P = 0.030; and AA versus GA/GG: OR^adjusted = 1.99, 95% CI 1.04–3.82, P = 0.039). In haplotype comparison, we identified that TAAG haplotype with the order of BTLA rs16859629, rs1982809, rs2171513 and rs3112270 SNPs might increase the susceptibility of EGJA (OR = 3.07, 95% CI = 1.41–6.71; P = 0.003).

Conclusion: To conclude, the present study suggests that BTLA T_rs16859629A_rs1982809A_rs2171513G_rs3112270 haplotype may increase the susceptibility of EGJA. More studies should be conducted to evaluate whether BTLA polymorphisms may influence the susceptibility of cancer in the future.

Comprehensive assessment of the association between XPC rs2228000 and cancer susceptibility based on 26835 cancer cases and 37069 controls

Objectives In the present study, we examined available articles from online databases to comprehensively investigate the effect of the XPC (xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group C) rs2228000 polymorphism on the risk of different types of clinical cancer.

Methods We conducted a group of overall and subgroup pooling analyses after retrieving the data from four databases (updated till September 2019). The P-value of association, OR (odds ratios), and 95% CI (confidence interval) were calculated.

Results We selected a total of 71 eligible studies with 26835 cancer cases and 37069 controls from the 1186 retrieved articles. There is an enhanced susceptibility for bladder cancer cases under T vs. C [P=0.004; OR (95% CI) = 1.25 (1.07, 1.45)], TT vs. CC [P=0.001; 1.68 (1.25, 2.26)], CT+TT vs. CC [P=0.016; 1.26 (1.04, 1.53)], and TT vs. CC+ CT [P=0.001; 1.49 (1.18, 1.90)] compared with negative controls. Additionally, there is an increased risk of breast cancer under T vs. C, TT vs. CC and TT vs. CC+ CT (P<0.05, OR > 1). Nevertheless, there is a decreased risk of gastric cancer cases in China under T vs. C [P=0.020; 0.92 (0.85, 0.99)], CT vs. CC [P=0.001, 0.83 (0.73, 0.93)], and CT+TT vs. CC [P=0.003, 0.84 (0.76, 0.94)].

Conclusions The TT genotype of XPC rs2228000 may be linked to an increased risk of bladder and breast cancer, whereas the CT genotype is likely to be associated with reduced susceptibility to gastric cancer in the Chinese population.

Gastric cancer: epidemiology, biology, and prevention: a mini review

Gastric cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The objective of this article is to review the epidemiology and biology of gastric cancer risk. This literature review explores the biological, clinical, and environmental factors that influence the rates of this disease and discuss the different intervention methods that may not only increase the awareness of gastric cancer but also increase screening in efforts to reduce the risk of gastric cancer. Helicobacter pylori infection is the primary risk factor for gastric cancer. Additional risk factors include geographical location, age, sex, smoking, socioeconomic status, dietary intake, and genetics. Primary and secondary prevention strategies such as dietary modifications and screenings are important measures for reducing the risk of gastric cancer. Interventions, such as H. pylori eradication through chemoprevention trials, have shown some potential as a preventative strategy. Although knowledge about gastric cancer risk has greatly increased, future research is warranted on the differentiation of gastric cancer epidemiology by subsite and exploring the interactions between H. pylori infection, genetics, and environmental factors. Better understanding of these relationships can help researchers determine the most effective intervention strategies for reducing the risk of this disease.

The association between adiponectin gene rs182052 polymorphism and cancer risk: a meta-analysis

Background: The evidence for an association between the adiponectin gene (ADIPOQ) polymorphism rs182052 and cancer risk is inconsistent. We performed a meta-analysis to obtain more precise conclusions.

Methods: The PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched until July 11, 2019. And seven epidemiology studies were retrieved, including 4,929 cases and 5,625 controls. Odds ratios (ORs) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to evaluate the strength of the association.

Results: The meta-analysis demonstrated that rs182052 significantly increased the risk of cancer under the allele, homozygote, dominant, and recessive models, based on an overall analysis (A vs. G: OR, 1.09, 95% CI, 1.03–1.15, P=0.003; AA vs. GG: OR, 1.20, 95% CI, 1.07–1.34, P=0.002; AA+GA vs. GG: OR, 1.12, 95% CI, 1.03–1.22, P=0.010; AA vs. GA+GG: OR, 1.12, 95% CI, 1.01–1.23, P=0.025). In the stratified analysis by ethnicity, rs182052 significantly increased the cancer risk in both Asian and Caucasian populations under one or several genetic models. In the stratified analysis by cancer type, rs182052 significantly increased the risk of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) under the five models.

Conclusions: Meta-analysis based on present studies suggests that rs182052 can increase the cancer risk.

Role of IL-17 gene polymorphisms in osteoarthritis: A meta-analysis based on observational studies

BACKGROUND

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic complex multifactorial joint disease, and a major degenerative form of arthritis. Existing studies on the association between polymorphisms of the IL-17 gene and the risk of OA in different populations have yielded conflicting findings.

AIM

To investigate the association between polymorphisms of the IL-17 gene and the risk of OA.

METHODS

We conducted a meta-analysis by systematically searching databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar to evaluate this association by calculating pooled odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. Moreover, subgroup analyses stratified by ethnicity and OA type were also conducted.

RESULTS

In a total of 6 citations involving 8 studies (2131 cases and 2299 controls), 4 single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified. Of these 4 polymorphisms, 2 (rs2275913, rs763780) were common in five case-control studies. Together, the pooled results revealed that the A allele and genotype AA/GA of the rs2275913 polymorphism, and the C allele and genotype CC of the rs763780 polymorphism in the IL-17 gene increased the risk of OA. Furthermore, stratification analyses by ethnicity and OA type showed that the rs2275913 polymorphism increased the risk of OA among Asians and in knee/hip OA, respectively. In addition, stratification analyses also revealed that the rs763780 polymorphism increased OA risk among both Asians and Caucasians in knee/hip OA.

CONCLUSION

The rs763780 polymorphism of the IL-17F gene increased the risk of OA, whereas the rs2275913 polymorphism of the IL-17A gene increased the risk of OA only among Asians. Due to the limitations of this study, these findings should be validated in future studies.

PRKAA1 rs13361707 C/T polymorphism confers decreased susceptibility to esophageal cancer: A case-control study

Background

Several studies probed into the connection between esophageal cancer (EC) risk and PRKAA1 rs13361707 C/T polymorphism, but obtained insignificant findings.

Methods

In this study, 814 EC cases and 961 controls from Eastern China were recruited to validate the relationship between this polymorphism and EC susceptibility.

Results

Data suggested rs13361707 C/T polymorphism in PRKAA1 gene was significantly related with a lower risk for EC. Such significant connection was also uncovered in subgroups of males, smokers, drinkers and individuals with age ≥ 60 years. In addition, this polymorphism was linked with the pathological grading, distant metastasis, and histology of EC.

Conclusion

In summary, PRKAA1 rs13361707 C/T polymorphism is related to the risk and clinical properties of EC patients in East China.

Reply to Comments on 'A functional polymorphism rs10830963 in melatonin receptor 1B associated with the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus'

Th authors of ‘A functional polymorphism rs10830963 in melatonin receptor 1B associated with the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus’ (Bioscience Reports (2019) 39, 12) have written a reply in response to the correspondence piece by Rosta et al. (Bioscience Reports (2020) 40, 2).

Associations of lncRNA H19 Polymorphisms at MicroRNA Binding Sites with Glioma Susceptibility and Prognosis

Glioma is the most common tumor of the central nervous system; variation in susceptibility and prognosis worldwide suggests that there are molecular and genetic differences among individuals. The H19 gene plays a dual role in carcinogenesis. In this study, associations between H19 polymorphisms and susceptibility as well as prognosis in glioma were evaluated. In total, 605 patients with glioma and 1,300 cancer-free subjects were enrolled in the study. Individuals with the rs3741219 A>G allele were less likely to develop glioma (relative risk [RR] = 0.54, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 0.45–0.63, p < 0.001), whereas rs217727 G>A and rs2839698 G>A genotypes were not associated with glioma risk. The associations between H19 polymorphisms and prognosis were assessed, including overall survival and progression-free survival. Three focused H19 polymorphisms did not show a significant effect on survival. Further analysis based on false-positive report probability validated these significant results. In the haplotype analysis, individuals with the G_rs217727A_rs2839698G_rs3741219 haplotype were less likely to develop glioma (odds ratio [OR] = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.23–0.46, p = 0.02). Overall, carriers of the rs3741219 AG or GG genotype of H19 have a decreased susceptibility to glioma, but polymorphisms in this gene are not related to prognosis.

Investigation of the Association of miRNA-499, miRNA-146a, miRNA-196a2 Loci with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk: A Case-Control Study Involving 1507 Subjects

microRNAs' (miRNAs) loci may influence hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. Many recent studies have assessed the relationship between miRNA-499, miRNA-146a, and miRNA-196a2 loci and HCC risk. However, the observed results are conflicting. A total of 584 HCC patients and 923 age- and sex-matched controls were recruited. The correlation of miRNA-499 rs3746444, miRNA-146a rs2910164, and miRNA-196a2 rs11614913 with HCC development was assessed. In the <53-year-old subgroup, a correlation of the rs2910164 locus with HCC risk was found (GG/CG vs. CC: adjusted p = 0.011, GG vs. CC: adjusted p = 0.021 and CG vs. CC: adjusted p = 0.027). The association between miRNA-146a rs2910164 and the risk of HCC was also found in the never smoking (GG/CG vs. CC: adjusted p = 0.011 and CG vs. CC: adjusted p = 0.018). Using false-positive report probability method and power value, we identified that miRNA-146a rs2910164 conferred a risk to HCC in the <53-year-old and never-smoking subgroups. In conclusion, this study indicates rs2910164 may be a risk factor for HCC, especially in the <53-year-old and never-smoking subgroups.

Association of human XPA rs1800975 polymorphism and cancer susceptibility: an integrative analysis of 71 case-control studies

BACKGROUND

The objective of the present study is to comprehensively evaluate the impact of the rs1800975 A/G polymorphism within the human xeroderma pigmentosum group A (XPA) gene on susceptibility to overall cancer by performing an integrative analysis of the current evidence.

METHODS

We retrieved possible relevant publications from a total of six electronic databases (updated to April 2020) and selected eligible case-control studies for pooled assessment. P-values of association and odds ratio (OR) were calculated for the assessment of association effect. We also performed Begg's test and Egger's test, sensitivity analysis, false-positive report probability (FPRP) analysis, trial sequential analysis (TSA), and expression/splicing quantitative trait loci (eQTL/sQTL) analyses.

RESULTS

In total, 71 case-control studies with 19,257 cases and 30,208 controls from 52 publications were included for pooling analysis. We observed an enhanced overall cancer susceptibility in cancer cases compared with negative controls in the Caucasian subgroup analysis for the genetic models of allelic G vs. A, carrier G vs. A, homozygotic GG vs AA, heterozygotic AG vs. AA, dominant AG + GG vs. AA and recessive GG vs. AA + AG (P < 0.05, OR > 1). A similar positive conclusion was also detected in the "skin cancer" or "skin basal cell carcinoma (BCC)" subgroup analysis of the Caucasian population. Our FPRP analysis and TSA results further confirmed the robustness of the conclusion. However, our eQTL/sQTL data did not support the strong links of rs1800975 with the gene expression or splicing changes of XPA in the skin tissue. In addition, even though we observed a decreased risk of lung cancer under the homozygotic, heterozygotic and dominant models (P < 0.05, OR < 1) and an enhanced risk of colorectal cancer under the allelic, homozygotic, heterozygotic, dominant (P < 0.05, OR > 1), our data from FPRP analysis and another pooling analysis with only the population-based controls in the Caucasian population did not support the strong links between the XPA rs1800975 A/G polymorphism and the risk of lung or colorectal cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings provide evidence of the close relationship between the XPA rs1800975 A/G polymorphism and susceptibility to skin cancer in the Caucasian population. The potential effect of XPA rs1800975 on the risk of developing lung or colorectal cancer still merits the enrollment of larger well-scaled studies.

YTHDF1 rs6090311 A>G polymorphism reduces Hepatoblastoma risk: Evidence from a seven-center case-control study

Various factors modulate the risk of hepatoblastoma. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the YTHDF1 gene could predispose to hepatoblastoma. We used TaqMan assay to genotype two YTHDF1 SNPs (rs6011668 C>T and rs6090311 A>G) in a Chinese population composed of 313 subjects with hepatoblastoma and 1446 controls from seven hospitals. We then evaluated the associations of these two SNPs with hepatoblastoma risk using unconditional logistic regression. We found that rs6090311 G allele exhibited a significant association with decreased hepatoblastoma risk [AG vs. AA: adjusted odds ratio (OR)=0.75; 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.58-0.98, P=0.033; AG/GG vs. AA: adjusted OR=0.76, 95% CI=0.59-0.97, P=0.029]. Furthermore, the combined analysis of protective genotypes revealed that subjects carrying two protective genotypes were less likely to have hepatoblastoma than those with 0-1 protective genotypes (adjusted OR=0.75, 95% CI=0.59-0.96, P=0.022). Subjects ≥17 months of age had decreased hepatoblastoma risk, in case that they carried rs6090311 AG/GG (adjusted OR=0.63, 95% CI=0.44-0.91, P=0.012), or two protective genotypes (adjusted OR=0.63, 95% CI=0.44-0.91, P=0.012). False-positive report probability analysis validated the reliability of the significant results. Preliminary functional annotations revealed that rs6090311 G was correlated with decreased expression of its surrounding genes in the expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) analysis. In conclusion, our results indicate that the rs6090311 A>G in the YTHDF1 gene is related to decreased hepatoblastoma risk.

mTOR–mLST8 interaction: hot spot identification through quantum biochemistry calculations

Quantum calculation of mTOR–mLST8 interaction.

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the coding region of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 4 and hepatocellular carcinoma: A retrospective case-control study

Previous studies have shown that single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 4 (ADAMTS4) may involve in the pathogenesis of some diseases. However, it is not clear whether they are associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A hospital-based case-control study, including 862 cases with HCC and 1120 controls, was conducted to assess the effects of 258 SNPs in the coding regions of ADAMTS4 on HCC risk and prognosis. We found that six SNPs in ADAMTS4 were differential distribution between cases and controls via the primary screening analyses; however, only rs538321148 and rs1014509103 polymorphisms were further identified to modify the risk of HCC (odds ratio: 2.73 and 2.95; 95% confidence interval, 2.28-3.29 and 2.43-3.58; P-value, 5.73 × 10^-27 and 1.36 × 10^-27 , respectively). Significant interaction between these two SNPs and two known causes of hepatitis B virus and aflatoxin B1 were also observed. Furthermore, rs538321148 and rs1014509103 polymorphisms were associated not only with clinicopathological features of tumor such as tumor stage and grade, microvessel density, and vessel metastasis, but with poor overall survival. Additionally, these SNPs significantly downregulated ADATMS4 expression in tumor tissues. These data suggest that SNPs in the coding region of ADAMTS4, such as rs538321148 and rs1014509103, may be potential biomarkers for predicting HCC risk and prognosis.

Effects of single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the mTORC1 pathway on the risk of brain metastasis in patients with non-small cell lung cancer

Purpose

The mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling pathway plays a vital role in cancer development and progression. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between genotype variants in mTORC1 pathway and the risk of brain metastasis (BM) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

We extracted genomic DNA from blood samples of 501 NSCLC patients and genotyped eight single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in three core genes [mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), mammalian lethal with sec-13 protein 8 (mLST8) and regulatory-associated protein of mTOR (RPTOR)] of the mTORC1 pathway. The associations between these SNPs and the risk of BM development were assessed.

Results

The AG/GG genotype of mLST8:rs26865 and TC/CC genotype of mLST8:rs3160 were associated with an increased risk of BM [hazard ratios (HR) 2.938, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.664–5.189, p < 0.001 and HR = 2.490, 95% CI = 1.543–4.016, p < 0.001, respectively]. These risk polymorphisms had a cumulative effect on BM risk, with two risk genotypes exhibiting the highest increased risk (p < 0.001). Furthermore, these risk SNPs were associated with the lymph node metastasis (N2/3), body mass index (BMI) (≥ 25 kg/m²), high level of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) antigen and Ki-67 proliferation index. Moreover, patients with AG/GG genotype of mLST8:rs26865 had significantly lower median overall survival than those with AA genotype (12.1 months versus 21.6 months, p = 0.04).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that polymorphisms in mTORC1 pathway were significantly associated with increased risk of BM and may be valuable biomarkers to identify NSCLC patients with a high risk of BM.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00432-019-03059-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

TERT rs10069690 polymorphism and cancers risk: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Studies have identified that the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene polymorphism rs10069690 (C>T) is associated with cancer risk, but the results remain inconclusive.

METHODS

To provide a more precise estimation of the relationship, we performed a meta-analysis of 45 published studies including 329,035 cases and 730,940 controls. We conducted a search in PubMed, Google Scholar and Web of Science to select studies on the association between rs10069690 and cancer risk. Stratification by ethnicity, cancer type, cancers' classification, source of control, sample size, and genotype method was used to explore the source of heterogeneity. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were evaluated using random effects models. Sensitivity, publication bias, false-positive report probability (FPRP) and statistical power were also assessed.

RESULTS

The result demonstrated that rs10069690 was significantly associated with an increased risk of cancer overall (OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.06-1.12, p < .001) under the allele model. Stratification analysis revealed an increased cancer risk in subgroups of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, lung cancer, thyroid cancer, and renal cell carcinoma (RCC). However, a significantly decreased association was observed in pancreatic cancer in the European population (OR = 0.93,95% CI: 0.87-0.99, p = .031). In the subgroup analysis based on cancer type, no significant association was found in prostate cancer, leukemia, colorectal cancer and glioma.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis suggested that the TERT rs10069690 polymorphism may be a risk factor for cancer, especially breast cancer, ovarian cancer, lung cancer, thyroid cancer, and RCC. Further functional studies are warranted to reveal the role of the polymorphism in carcinogenesis.

Association of the vitamin D metabolism gene GC and CYP27B1 polymorphisms with cancer susceptibility: a meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

Nowadays, vitamin D is known to have functions beyond bone formation, including inhibiting angiogenesis and promoting tumor apoptosis. CYP27B1 and group-specific component (GC), the main enzyme responsible for the degradation and transport of active vitamin D, play important role in many cancer-related cellular processes. Relationships between CYP27B1 and GC polymorphisms and cancer susceptibility have been widely investigated, whereas the results are inconsistent. We strictly searched EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, WanFang and CNKI electronic databases for relevant studies exploring the associations of GC (rs4588 and rs7041) and CYP27B1 (rs4646537, rs3782130) polymorphisms with cancer risks according to search strategy. Thirty-two studies published in 13 articles involving 15713 cases and 17304 controls were included. Our analyses suggested that rs4588 and rs7041 polymorphisms were significantly associated with overall cancer risk. Stratification analyses of ethnicity indicated that rs4588 polymorphism significantly increased cancer risk in Caucasians and Asians, while rs7041 polymorphism significantly increased cancer risk in Asians. When studies were stratified by cancer type, our results indicated that rs4588 significantly increased the risk of breast cancer and digestive system tumor, but not in prostate cancer and non-small cell lung cancer, while rs7041 significantly increased the risk of non-small cell lung cancer. Above associations were noteworthy findings as evaluated by false-positive report probabilities (FPRPs). There were no associations of rs4646537 and rs3782130 with overall cancer risks. Associations between CYP27B1 and GC polymorphisms and cancer risks were examined, and additional large samples are necessary to validate our results.

Contribution of interaction between genetic variants of interleukin-11 and Helicobacter pylori infection to the susceptibility of gastric cancer

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) ranks the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. We aimed to clarify the relevance of genetic variants of IL-11, a hub of various carcinogenic pathways, as well as their interactions with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in the development of GC.

Methods

A case-control study with 880 GC cases and 900 healthy controls was conducted in a Chinese population. Six tagSNPs were detected by Taqman Allelic Discrimination assay, while H. pylori status was detected by Typing Detection Kit for Antibody to H. pylori and serum IL-11 level was measured using ELISA method.

Results

We found that rs1126760 (C vs T: OR=1.39, 95% CIs=1.13-1.70, P=0.002) and rs1126757 (C vs T: OR=0.82, 95% CIs=0.72-0.93, P=0.002) were significantly associated with susceptibility of GC. Even adjusted for Bonferroni correction, the results were still significant (P=0.002×6=0.012). IL-11 rs1126760 was significantly associated with higher serum and expression level of IL-11, while rs1126757 was significantly associated with lower serum IL-11 level (P<0.001). Significant interaction with H. pylori infection was identified for rs1126760 (P for interaction =0.005). Higher expression of the IL-11 gene was significant with development and poor prognosis of GC.

Conclusion

Our study provides strong evidence that genetic variants of the IL-11 gene may interact with H. pylori infection and contribute to the development of GC. Further studies with larger sample size and functional experiments are needed to validate our findings.

TNFAIP8L1 and FLT1 polymorphisms alter the susceptibility to cervical cancer amongst uyghur females in China

TNFAIP8L1 and FLT1 play critical roles in the occurrence and development of tumors, but no in-depth studies have been carried out in cervical cancer. The present study aims to research the correlation between polymorphisms of these two genes and the risk of cervical cancer in the Uygur women. The study involved 342 cervical cancer patients and 498 healthy women. Five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from the TNFAIP8L1 gene and the FLT1 gene were selected and genotyped. Odds ratio and 95% CIs were calculated by logistic regression analysis to evaluate the correlation between SNPs and cervical cancer risk. The alleles rs9917028-A (P=0.032), rs10426502-A (P=0.007), and rs1060555-G (P=0.026) of TNFAIP8L1 were associated with a decreased risk of cervical cancer. In the multiple genetic models, these three SNPs were also associated with the risk of cervical cancer. The stratified analysis showed that TNFAIP8L1-rs10426502, -rs1060555, and FLT1-rs9513111 were associated with a decreased risk of cervical cancer amongst people older than 43 years. Moreover, the haplotypes AG (P=0.007) and GC (P=0.026) of linkage disequilibrium block rs10426502|rs1060555 in TNFAIP8L1 were significantly associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer. Our results suggested that the relationships between TNFAIP8L1 and FLT1 polymorphisms and the risk of cervical cancer amongst Uyghur females.

LIG3 gene polymorphisms and risk of gastric cancer in a Southern Chinese population

DNA ligase III (LIG3) has been implicated in the etiology of cancer. However, few studies have accessed the association of LIG3 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with gastric cancer risk, especially in Chinese population. The current study was undertaken to investigate contribution of LIG3 gene polymorphisms to gastric cancer risk. We first applied TaqMan assay to genotype three LIG3 gene SNPs (rs1052536 C > T, rs3744356 C > T, rs4796030 A > C) in 1142 patients with gastric cancer and 1173 healthy controls. And then, we adopted unconditional multivariate logistic regression analysis to estimate the association between LIG3 SNP genotypes and gastric cancer risk. In all, no positive association was found between the three LIG3 SNPs and gastric cancer risk in single locus analysis or combined risk genotypes analysis. However, compared with participants with rs4796030 AA genotype, participants with the AC/CC had a decreased risk of developing tumors from cardia at an adjusted OR of 0.68 (95% CI = 0.48-0.96, P = 0.026). In addition, we found that participants harboring 2-3 risk genotypes were at a significantly increased risk of developing tumor from cardia (adjusted OR = 1.63, 95% CI = 1.16-2.28, P = 0.005). These results suggest that genetic variations in LIG3 gene may play a weak role in modifying the risk of gastric cancer. Future functional studies should be performed to elucidate the biological role of LIG3 polymorphisms in gastric cancer carcinogenesis.

Association of STAT3 and STAT4 polymorphisms with susceptibility to chronic hepatitis B virus infection and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis

Background: It has been reported that polymorphisms of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3 and STAT4 might be associated with susceptibility to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and risk of chronic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Owing to limitation of sample size and inconclusive results, we conducted a meta-analysis to clarify the association. Methods: We identified relevant studies by a systematic search of Medline/PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library up to 20 February 2019. The strength of the association measured by odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) was studied. All the statistical analyses were conducted based on Review Manager 5.3 software. Results: A total of 5242 cases and 2717 controls from five studies were included for the STAT3 polymorphism, 5902 cases and 7867 controls from nine studies for the STAT4 polymorphism. Our results suggested that STAT3 rs1053004 polymorphism was a significant risk factor of chronic HBV infection (C vs. T: OR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.07–1.29, P_A=0.0007; CC + CT vs. TT: OR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.09–1.76, P_A=0.008). Validation with all the genetic models revealed that rs7574865 polymorphism of STAT4 gene was closely associated with chronic HBV infection (P_A<0.01) and chronic hepatitis B (CHB)-related HCC (P_A<0.05). Meanwhile, the authenticity of the above meta-analysis results was confirmed by trial sequential analysis (TSA). Conclusions: The meta-analysis showed that STAT3 rs1053004 polymorphism may be the risk for developing chronic HBV infection but not associated with HCC. The present study also indicates that STAT4 rs7574865 polymorphism increased the risk of chronic HBV infection and HCC.

SNP rs2596542G>A in MICA is associated with risk of hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis

The association of major histocompatibility complex class I chain-related gene A (MICA) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs2596542G>A and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been broadly studied, with inconsistent results. Therefore, we conducted the current meta-analysis to better elucidate the roles of SNP rs2596542G>A in HCC. Eligible articles were searched in PubMed, CNKI, Wanfang, Embase, VIP, Web of Science, and CBM databases up to November 2018. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs were applied. A total of 11 articles, including 4528 HCC patients and 16,625 control subjects, were analyzed. Results revealed that rs2596542G>A was significantly associated with HCC in the heterozygote (G/A versus A/A, P=0.006, OR = 0.854; 95% CI: 0.763–0.956); and dominant (G/G + G/A versus A/A; P=0.021; OR = 0.796; 95% CI: 0.655–0.967) genetic models. Nevertheless, we also detected significant associations between rs2596542G>A and HCV-induced HCC. Additionally, according to our analyses, SNP rs2596542G>A was not correlated with HBV-induced HCC. In conclusion, our findings suggest that MICA SNP rs2596542G>A is associated with HCC susceptibility amongst the Asian, Caucasian, and African ethnicity in certain genetic models. Specifically, MICA SNP rs2396542G>A is associated with risk of HCV-induced HCC, not HBV-induced HCC.

Additional data support the role of LINC00673 rs11655237 C>T in the development of neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma is the most frequently diagnosed neural tumor of childhood. Abnormal function of the long intergenic non-coding RNA (lincRNA) LINC00673 has been implicated in various human malignancies. Genome-wide association studies revealed the LINC00673 rs11655237 C>T polymorphism to be associated with the risk of neuroblastoma, though the effect was not well defined, in part due to the small sample size in our earlier study. Herein, we verified the impact of LINC00673 rs11655237 C>T on the risk of neuroblastoma in 700 cases and 1516 controls from six centers in China. After pooling all enrolled patients, we observed a significant association between LINC00673 rs11655237 C>T and risk of neuroblastoma (TT vs. CC: adjusted odds ratio [OR]=1.58, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.06-2.35, P=0.024; additive model: adjusted OR=1.20, 95% CI=1.03-1.39, P=0.020; recessive model: adjusted OR=1.50, 95% CI=1.02-2.22, P=0.040). Stratification analysis revealed a significant relationship between rs11655237 CT/TT and neuroblastoma risk in subgroups of males, patients whose tumor originated in the adrenal gland, and patients with clinical stage IV disease. These findings add new evidence of the importance of LINC00673 rs11655237 C>T to the risk of developing neuroblastoma.

Association of KRAS and NRAS gene polymorphisms with Wilms tumor risk: a four-center case-control study

Wilms tumor is a type of pediatric solid tumor that arises partly due to somatic and germline mutations. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the RAS gene reportedly modify the risk for several types of human malignancies. We conducted a multicenter study to investigate whether RAS gene variants predispose individuals to Wilms tumor. Four SNPs in RAS were genotyped in 355 Wilms tumor cases and 1070 controls. The SNPs included rs12587 G>T, rs7973450 A>G and rs7312175 G>A in KRAS, and rs2273267 A>T in NRAS. Individuals harboring the rs12587 GT genotype were more likely to develop Wilms tumor than those carrying the GG genotype (adjusted odds ratio [OR]=1.30, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.004-1.68, P=0.046). However, the other three SNPs seemed not to influence the risk for Wilms tumor. Compared to individuals without a risk genotype, those harboring one to three KRAS risk genotypes had an adjusted OR of 1.28 for developing Wilms tumor (95% CI=1.002-1.64, P=0.048). Stratification analysis revealed that rs12587 GT/TT was associated with Wilms tumor risk in children >18 months old (adjusted OR=1.39, 95% CI=1.02-1.89, P=0.037). Our findings indicate that the rs12587 G>T polymorphism in KRAS is associated with increased Wilms tumor susceptibility.

mTOR Signaling in Cancer and mTOR Inhibitors in Solid Tumor Targeting Therapy

The mammalian or mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway plays a crucial role in regulation of cell survival, metabolism, growth and protein synthesis in response to upstream signals in both normal physiological and pathological conditions, especially in cancer. Aberrant mTOR signaling resulting from genetic alterations from different levels of the signal cascade is commonly observed in various types of cancers. Upon hyperactivation, mTOR signaling promotes cell proliferation and metabolism that contribute to tumor initiation and progression. In addition, mTOR also negatively regulates autophagy via different ways. We discuss mTOR signaling and its key upstream and downstream factors, the specific genetic changes in the mTOR pathway and the inhibitors of mTOR applied as therapeutic strategies in eight solid tumors. Although monotherapy and combination therapy with mTOR inhibitors have been extensively applied in preclinical and clinical trials in various cancer types, innovative therapies with better efficacy and less drug resistance are still in great need, and new biomarkers and deep sequencing technologies will facilitate these mTOR targeting drugs benefit the cancer patients in personalized therapy.

Functional variant of MTOR rs2536 and survival of Chinese gastric cancer patients

We previously reported that some single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of candidate genes involved in the MTOR complex1 (MTORC1) were associated with risk of gastric cancer (GCa). In the present study, we further evaluated associations of eight potentially functional SNPs of MTOR, MLST8 and RPTOR with survival of 1002 GCa patients and also investigated molecular mechanisms underlying such associations. Specifically, we found that the MTOR rs2536 C allele at the microRNA binding site was independently associated with a 26% reduction of death risk (HR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.57-0.96, p = 0.022). The results remained noteworthy with a prior false positive probability of 0.1. Genotype-phenotype correlation analysis in 144 patients' adjacent normal gastric tissue samples revealed that the MTOR expression levels were lower in rs2536 TC/CC carriers than that in wild-type TT carriers (p = 0.043). Dual luciferase assays revealed that the rs2536 C allele had a higher binding affinity to microRNA-150, leading to a decreased transcriptional activity of MTOR, compared to the rs2536 T allele. Further functional analysis revealed that MTOR knockdown by small interference RNA impaired proliferation, migration, and invasion ability in GCa cell lines. In conclusion, The MTOR rs2536 T > C change may be a biomarker for survival of Chinese GCa patients, likely by modulating microRNA-induced gene expression silencing. Additional studies are needed to validate our findings.

TP73 G4C14-A4T14 polymorphism and cancer susceptibility: evidence from 36 case-control studies

G4C14-A4T14 polymorphism of TP73 gene has been reported with a potential association in cancer risks through affected cell homeostasis; however the results were not consistent. We performed a comprehensive meta-analysis to explore the associations between G4C14-A4T14 polymorphism and cancer susceptibility. Extensive retrieve was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Wanfang database and CNKI database up to May 20, 2018. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were conducted to evaluate the overall strength of the associations in five genetic models, as well as in subgroup analyses. Q-test, false-positive report probability analysis and trial sequential analysis, Egger’s test and Begg’s funnel plot were applied to evaluate the robustness of the results. In silico analysis was managed to demonstrate the relationship of TP73 expression correlated with cancer tissues. Finally, 36 case–control studies with a total of 9493 cancer cases and 13,157 healthy controls were enrolled into the meta-analysis. The pooled results present a significantly higher risk of G4C14-A4T14 polymorphism in all the five genetic models, as well as in the subgroups of Caucasian, cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, H-B subgroup and comfort to Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium subgroup. In silico analysis revealed that the expression of TP73 in cervical cancer tissue is higher than it in corresponding normal tissue, as well as in cervical cancer. All in all, TP73 G4C14-A4T14 polymorphism causes an upgrade cancer risk, especially in Caucasian population. G4C14-A4T14 polymorphism might be a potential biomarker for judging the tumorigenesis of cervical cancer and colorectal cancer.