Single nucleotide polymorphisms of the vascular endothelial growth factor gene associated with incidence of oral squamous cell carcinoma

VEGF-2578C/A, -460T/C Polymorphisms and Gastrointestinal Tract Cancer Risk: An Updated Meta-Analysis

Functional polymorphisms in the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) alter the susceptibility toward different gastrointestinal tract (GIT) cancers. In this study, we explored the association of VEGF-2578C/A and VEGF-460T/C polymorphisms with esophageal cancer (EC) risk. In total, 330 patients with EC and 330 controls for VEGF-2578C/A polymorphism and 316 patients with EC and 316 controls for VEGF-460T/C polymorphism were genotyped. AA genotype (p = 0.01) and A allele (p = 0.02) of VEGF-2578C/A and CC genotype (p = 0.04) and C allele (p = 0.04) of VEGF-460T/C polymorphism were significantly associated with an increased risk of EC. VEGF-2578C/A and VEGF-460T/C polymorphisms have been studied in different GIT cancers, but results are inconclusive. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to assess the association of these polymorphisms with the risk of GIT cancers. The PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases were used to search the articles. Twenty-one studies on VEGF-2578C/A and 20 studies on VEGF-460T/C polymorphism were included in this meta-analysis. VEGF-2578C/A polymorphism was associated with the decreased risk of GIT cancer in the overall population under the overdominant model (p = 0.009). A significant association of VEGF-2578C/A polymorphism with GIT cancer risk has been observed in the middle easterners, Caucasians, and Asians under different genetic models. VEGF-460T/C polymorphism was significantly associated with an increased risk of GIT cancers in Caucasians. Stratification of the data on the basis of cancer type showed a significant association of VEGF-2578C/A polymorphism with the risk of gallbladder cancer, whereas VEGF-460T/C polymorphism was associated with the risk of hepatocellular cancer, gastric cancer, and colorectal cancer. Our meta-analysis suggested that VEGF-2578C/A and VEGF-460T/C polymorphisms were associated with GIT cancer risk.

The relationship between VEGF-460(T>C) polymorphism and cancer risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis based on 46 reports

BACKGROUND

Extensive studies on the link between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and various malignancy risks produced conflicting results, notably for VEGF-460(T/C). To evaluate this correlation more comprehensively and accurately, we perform a meta-analysis.

METHODS

Through retrieving 5 databases (Web of Science (WoS), Embase, Pubmed, Wanfang database (Wangfang), and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI)) and applying hand search, citation search, and gray literature search, 44 papers included 46 reports were enrolled. To evaluate the relationship between VEGF-460 and cancer risk, we pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

Our results indicated that the VEGF-460 polymorphism is not related to malignancy susceptibility (dominant model, OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.87-1.09; recessive model, OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.82-1.10; heterozygous model, OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.90-1.10; homozygous model, OR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.76-1.10; additive model, OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.90-1.07). While, in subgroup analysis, this SNP may reduce the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.

CONCLUSION

this meta-analysis indicated that VEGF-460 was irrelevant to overall malignancy risk, but it might be a protective factor for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Gene polymorphisms and risk of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a systematic review

Background

Exposure to the same environmental factors in different people have resulted in different susceptibility to head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), which suggests genetic variation may be a risk factor for the development of HNSCC. So, the aim was to review literatures on the association between gene polymorphisms and risk of HNSCCs.

Materials and methods

This systematic review included all articles on the impact of gene polymorphisms on risk and susceptibility to HNSCC published till September 2021 using PubMed, Web of science, SCOPUS, Google Scholar and Cochrane library databases.

Results

Of 1163 initial searched articles, 77 articles were eligible to include in this review. Studies were categorized based on gene functions. In each category, studied gene polymorphisms related to growth control genes, cell cycle control, apoptosis, DNA repair genes, carcinogen-metabolizing enzymes, alcohol-metabolizing genes, antioxidant gene, inflammatory cytokine, transcription factor, tumor immunity, folate metabolism, and tumor suppressor gene were discussed separately. Among the polymorphisms that are often significantly associated with HNSCC risk are: GSTM1 null, GSTT1 null, CYP2D6 *4, XRCC1 Arg194Trp and Arg399Gln, ERCC1 C8092A, XPD Lys751Gln, XRCC3 Thr241Met, P53 codon 72 and MTHFR C677T polymorphisms.

Conclusion

Varied and contradictory results have been reported in different studies regarding the association of gene polymorphisms with HNSCC risk. To conclude about this association and to overcome these contradictions, it is necessary to use the results of existing meta-analyses or to perform new or updated meta-analyses.

Study of single nucleotide polymorphism of vascular endothelium factor in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer

BACKGROUND

Genetic alterations and high levels of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are presumptive risk factors for differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC).

OBJECTIVE

This work aims to study the presence of - 634G/C polymorphism of vascular endothelial growth factor (rs2010963) and its' serum level in patients with DTC and comparing these results with those of the control subjects.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

The study was a retrograde case-control study that included seventy patients with DTCin addition to seventy apparently healthy control subjects. Blood sample was taken and subjected to study of - 634G/C VEGF polymorphism (rs2010963) by real time PCR and measurement of its' plasma level by immunoassay kit (ELISA).

RESULTS

Regarding genotyping of VEGFA - 634G/C (rs2010963) polymorphism, there was significant increase in CG and GG genotypes (28.6%, 18.6% respectively) among patients compared to control subjects (20.0%, 4.3% respectively) and significant increase in CC genotype in control subjects (75.7%) compared to patients (52.9%), P = 0.001. The VEGF mean ± SD level was significantly elevated in patients compared to control subjects (1215.81 ± 225.78 versus 307.16 ± 91.81, P = 0.006). Moreover, there was significant increase in VEGF levels in patients with CG and GG genotypes (1295.9 ± 68.74, 1533.08 ± 109.95, respectively) compared to patients with CC genotype (1061 163.25), P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

There was significant increase in GG and CG genotypes in patients with DTC compared to control subjects which may suggest a predisposing role for these genotypes in development of DTC. Moreover, there was significant increase in serum level of vascular endothelial growth factor in patients with GG and CG genotypes which may reflect the mechanism of these genotypes in development of DTC.

Impact of VEGFA promoter polymorphisms on esophageal cancer risk in North-West Indians: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Angiogenesis play a critical role in the development and progression of tumors in solid tumors. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the most important endothelial cell mitogen which plays a critical role in normal physiological and tumor angiogenesis.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this case-control study was to investigate the association of VEGF-2578C/A, -2549 I/D, and -460T/C promoter polymorphisms with esophageal cancer risk in North-West Indians.

METHODS

In this study, 200 sporadic esophageal cancer patients and 200 healthy, unrelated, age and gender matched controls were analyzed. The genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples using phenol chloroform method. Genotyping of VEGF- 2549I/D polymorphism was carried out by direct polymerase chain reaction (PCR) whereas VEGF -2578C/A and VEGF-460T/C) polymorphisms were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method.

RESULTS

AA genotype (p = 0.005) and A allele (p = 0.005) VEGF -2578 C/A, II genotype (p = 0.011) and I allele (p = 0.012) of VEGF - 2549 I/D and CC genotype (p = 0.013) and C allele of VEGF-460T/C polymorphisms were significantly associated with increased risk of esophageal cancer. Stratification of data on the basis of gender showed that VEGF -2578 AA genotype (p = 0.001) and A allele (p = 0.001); VEGF -2549 II genotype (p = 0.002) and I allele (p = 0.002) and VEGF- 460CC genotype (p = 0.001) and C allele (p = 0.002) was significantly associated with increased risk of esophageal cancer in female group. Haplotype analysis revealed that A_-2578 I_- 2549 C_- 460 haplotype was significantly associated with increased risk for esophageal cancer in total samples (p = 0.008) as well as in female group (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of present study indicate that VEGF -2578C/A, - 2549I/D and -460T/C polymorphisms were significantly associated with increased risk of esophageal cancer in North-West Indians.

Association of specific single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in the promoter and 3'-Untranslated region of Vascular Endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene with risk and higher tumour grade of head and neck cancers

BACKGROUND

Head and Neck Cancers (HNCs)comprise one of the most frequent cancers in South-Asian region. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) has a potent role in tumorigenesis and metastasis. Certain common single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in the highly polymorphic VEGF gene are correlated with variations in VEGF functions. The data for these SNVs in HNCs is scarce for South Asian populations. The present study addresses this shortfall. It investigates the association of two VEGF SNVs, -2578C/A (rs699947) in the promoter region and + 936C/T (rs3025039) in 3'-UTR, with the risk of HNCs and tumour characteristics.

METHODS

The study comprised 323 participants with 121 HNC patients and 202 controls. Germline DNA was isolated from peripheral blood samples. PCR-RFLP methods were optimized and validated by Sanger sequencing. After Hardy-Weinberg evaluation, the independent associations were analyzed under the assumptions of different genetic models. The χ² test of independence or Fisher's Exact test (significant p-values at < 0.05) were performed and ORs (odds ratios) with 95% confidence interval were tabulated.

RESULTS

VEGF -2578 A-allele, CA + AA, and AA genotypes had significant protective association against HNCs. The respective ORs were: 0.651 (0.469-0.904), 0.613 (0.381 - 0.985), and 0.393 (0.193-0.804). VEGF + 936 T-allele, CT, and CT + TT genotypes had significantly increased susceptibility for HNCs. The respective ORs were 1.882 (1.001 - 3.536), 2.060 (1.035 - 4.102), and 2.023 (1.032 - 3.966). Additionally, VEGF + 936 CT and CT + TT genotypes showed significant associations with higher tumour grade (p-values < 0.029, and < 0.037, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The present study is the foremost report of independent and unique associations of the investigated VEGF SNVs with HNCs.

The role of angiogenetic single-nucleotide polymorphisms in thymic malignancies and thymic benign lesions

Background

We previously showed that selected single-nucleotide-polymorphisms (SNPs) of genes involved in angiogenesis influence the aggressiveness of thymic epithelial tumors (TETs). This study analyzes their role in TETs and in thymic benign lesions, in order to investigate potential correlation with risk and outcome.

Methods

Genomic DNA was extracted from paraffin-embedded tissue of 92 patients, undergoing surgery at our Institution. We investigated by Real-Time PCR the SNPs of the following genes: platelet-derived growth factor receptor-α (PDGFRα), hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 and 3 (VEGF-2, VEGFR-3), excision repair cross-complementation group-1 (ERCC1).

Results

Fifty-seven TETs and 35 thymic benign lesions were included into the study. Frequency of SNPs was as follows: rs2057482 C, rs11158358 C and rs11549465 C polymorphisms of HIF1-a: thymomas < general population (P=0.008, P=0.007, and P=0.044 respectively). HIF1-a alleles: general population > study groups, rs1951795C SNP (P=0.026 for benign lesions and P=0.0007 for thymomas), rs10873142T SNP (P=0.008 and P=0.001 respectively), rs12434438 A SNP (P=0.034 and P=0.0007) and rs2301113A SNP (P=0.027 and P=0.010). rs699947C polymorphism of VEGF-A: benign lesions > general population (P=0.012).

Conclusions

This is the first study investigating the angiogenetic polymorphisms in thymic benign lesions and TETs. SNPs analysis may represent a further asset in identification of patients who could benefit from anti-angiogenetic therapy.

A Meta-Analysis of the Association Between the VEGF +936C>T Gene Polymorphism and Digestive System Cancer Susceptibility

Background: We aimed to evaluate the association between the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene +936C>T polymorphism and digestive system tumors using a meta-analysis. Methods: Studies of the association between the VEGF+936C>T polymorphism and digestive system tumors published before December 2019 were searched in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Sciences, the Chinese Biological and Medical Database (CBM), and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). The odds ratio and the corresponding 95% confidence interval were used as the effect indicators. A meta-analysis of original data was performed with different genetic models using the Stata 13.0 software. The reliability of the association was evaluated using the heterogeneity test, sensitivity analysis, false-positive report probability (FPRP), and bias test. Results: This meta-analysis included 37 publications with a total of 8568 digestive system tumor patients and 10,870 cases in the control populations. The overall combined analyses showed that the VEGF+936C>T gene polymorphism was significantly correlated with digestive system cancer susceptibility with the T allele increasing the risk of digestive system cancers. A stratified analysis based on ethnicity showed that the VEGF+936C>T gene polymorphism significantly increased the risk of digestive system tumors in both Asian and Caucasian populations. Additional stratified analyses based on tumor type showed that the VEGF +936C>T gene polymorphism was associated with colorectal cancer, oral cancer, and esophageal cancer. The sensitivity analysis (p < 0.2) and FPRP results also confirmed the reliability of these associations. Conclusions: This meta-analysis supported previous findings that the VEGF +936C>T gene polymorphism is significantly associated with an increased risk of the development of digestive system malignant tumors. This association still requires large-scale epidemiological studies for further validation.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms and serologic levels of hypoxia-inducible factor1 α and vascular endothelial growth factor are associated with increased risk of oral submucous fibrosis in gutka users among a North Indian population

OBJECTIVES

Tissue hypoxia in oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) induces hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1 α and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), causing angiogenesis. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may predict susceptibility to environmental carcinogens and to development of OSMF, as well as its severity and malignant transformation. This study aimed to determine the serologic levels and frequencies of SNPs of HIF-1 α and VEGF in OSMF.

STUDY DESIGN

In this prospective pilot study, the frequencies of SNPs of HIF-1 α (C1772 T, G1790 A); VEGF-A 936 C/T; and VEGF-C (rs7664413, rs1485766) in patients with OSMF or oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and in healthy controls were determined by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (n = 100 each), and serologic levels were determined by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA (n = 50 each), in a North Indian population.

RESULTS

Heterozygous forms of HIF-1 α C1772 T (CT: odds ratio [OR] 5.0; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.24-11.16; P < .001); HIF-1 α G1790 A (GA: OR 2.8; 95% CI 1.62-5.16; P < .001); and VEGF-C rs1485766 (AC: OR 2.18; 95% CI 1.19-3.99; P < .05) were associated with OSMF. The mean serologic levels of HIF-1 α, VEGF-A, and VEGF-C were significantly raised in patients with OSMF compared with healthy controls (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The SNPs of HIF-1 α, VEGF-A, and VEGF-C and their serologic levels can act as prognostic biomarkers and aid in the development of specialized anti-HIF-1 α or anti-VEGF drugs for the management and prevention of OSCC in patients with OSMF.

Associations ofVEGFAandKDRsingle-nucleotide polymorphisms and increased risk and aggressiveness of high-grade gliomas

Angiogenesis, induced by the vascular endothelial growth factor A through its ligation to the vascular endothelial growth receptor 2, has been described as a crucial point in high-grade glioma development. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of VEGFA–2578C/A, −2489C/T, −1154G/A, −634G/C, and −460C/T, and KDR–604T/C, −271G/A, +1192G/A, and +1719A/T single-nucleotide polymorphisms on risk and clinicopathological aspects of high-grade glioma. This case–control study enrolled 205 high-grade glioma patients and 205 controls. Individuals with VEGFA–2578 CC or CA, VEGFA–1154 GG, VEGFA–634 GC or CC, and VEGFA–460 CT or TT genotypes were under 2.56, 1.53, 1.54, and 1.84 increased risks of high-grade glioma, compared to others, respectively. And 1.61, 2.66, 2.52, 2.53, and 2.02 increased risks of high-grade glioma were seen in individuals with VEGFA–2578 CC plus VEGFA–1154 GG, VEGFA–2578 CC or CA plus VEGFA–634 GC or CC, VEGFA–2578 CC or CA plus VEGFA–460 CT or TT, VEGFA–1154 GG or GA plus VEGFA–634 GC or CC, and VEGFA 634 GC or CC plus VEGFA–460 CT or TT combined genotypes, respectively, when compared to others. The “CAGT” haplotype of KDR single-nucleotide polymorphisms was more common in patients with grade IV than in those with grade III tumors, and individuals carrying this haplotype were at 1.76 increased risk of developing grade IV tumors than others. We present, for the first time, preliminary evidence that VEGFA–2578C/A and VEGFA–1154G/A single-nucleotide polymorphisms increases high-grade glioma risk, and “CAGT” haplotype of the KDR gene alters high-grade glioma aggressiveness and risk of grade IV tumors in Brazil.

Genetic polymorphisms of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) associated with gastric cancer recurrence after curative resection with adjuvant chemotherapy

Background

The relationship between polymorphisms in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and gastric cancer is still inconclusive. We investigated whether there is an association between VEGF genetic polymorphisms and risk of gastric cancer, and evaluated the recurrence of advanced gastric cancer after curative resection with adjuvant chemotherapy according to VEGF genetic polymorphisms.

Methods

The association of functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the VEGF gene (+936C > T, − 634G > C, − 2578C > A, + 1612G > A) were evaluated. Genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis. A total of 151 patients with gastric cancer were enrolled, and the control group consisted of 413 individuals with esophago-gastroduodenoscopy who were randomly selected through health screening. All of the enrolled patients had curative resections with completion of adjuvant capecitabine and oxaliplatin combination chemotherapy and the initial metastatic cases were excluded. During the regular follow-up protocol, the episodes of the recurrence were documented and the specific genotype and allelic frequencies were evaluated.

Results

As for the cancer risk, there were no significant differences in specific genotypes and allelic frequencies. The mean follow-up period was 28.82 ± 30.92 (12 ~ 72) months and the recurrence rate was 28.3%. In the patients carrying the 936-C allele, the recurrence rate of gastric cancer was high (P = 0.02). Disease-free interval was significantly different between the patients carrying the 936-CC and 936-CT/TT genotype (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

VEGF 936-C allele is associated with poor prognosis, but not risk of gastric cancer. In the patients carrying the 936-C allele, more potent adjuvant treatment would be considered.

Impact of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) single nucleotide polymorphisms on outcome in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms

Angiogenesis represents a key event in cancer development, leading to local invasion e metastatization, and might be considered a basic feature in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs) with a high expression of angiogenic molecules. We aimed to analyze the prognostic and predictive role of angiogenic factors in GEP-NENs through the analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of VEGF-A, VEGFR2 and VEGFR3. The genomic DNA of 58 consecutive patients with GEP-NENs treated at our Institution was extracted from peripheral blood. Two SNPs were identified respectively in VEGF-A (rs2010963G>C, rs699947A>C), VEGFR-2 (rs2305948C>T, rs1870377T>A), and VEGFR-3 (rs307821T>C, rs307826C>A) gene. Gene polymorphisms were determined by Real-Time PCR using TaqMan assays. Median age was 57 years (range 24–79 years); 32 patients were male and 77.5% of NENs were localized in the pancreas. The allele frequency of VEGFR-2 rs2305948T and of VEGF-A rs2010963C showed a trend of higher frequency than in general population (12.1% vs. 8.0% and 34.5% vs. 31.2%, respectively). Three out SNPs (VEGF-A rs699947C, VEGF-A rs2010963GC and VEGFR-3 rs307821C) showed a correlation with an increased risk of disease relapse. Moreover median PFS changes according to the presence of 0–1 SNPs (20.7% of cases; 61.9 months), 2 SNPs (25.9%; 49.2 months) and 3 SNPs (53.4%; 27.8 months) (p = 0.034). Results suggest, for the first time, that specific SNPs in VEGF-A and VEGFR-3 correlate with poor prognosis in GEP-NENs. The identification of this new prognostic factor might be helpful in order to optimize the management of these heterogeneous neoplasms.

The matrix metalloproteinase and insulin-like growth factor system in oral cancer - a prospective clinical study

Aim

The absence of reliable single serum biomarkers for oral premalignant lesion (OPL) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) limits early diagnosis, monitoring of advanced disease, and prediction of prognosis.

Methods

In this prospective study, serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-3, MMP-13, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1, and IGF-binding protein (IGFBP)-3 were measured in 81 untreated OSCC patients, 49 healthy subjects, and 75 individuals with OPLs, and correlated with clinicopathological parameters.

Results

Serum levels of MMP-3 were significantly higher in OSCC patients compared to healthy subjects (p=0.004). Mean IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels in OSCC patients were significantly lower in healthy subjects (p=0.001 and p<0.001). OSCC patients with an IGF-1 serum value <130 ng/mL (median) showed a significantly lower survival rate compared to ≥130 ng/mL (p=0.049). Combined use of IGF-1 (<130 ng/mL) and IGFBP-3 (<3.1 μg/mL) resulted in a significantly lower 12-month cumulative survival compared to the complementary set (78.5% vs 93.8%; p=0.031). There was a significantly positive correlation between IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 serum values (r_s =0.625, p<0.001).

Conclusion

This study shows that IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 have a vital role in the pathogenesis of OSCC and indicates for the first time that IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 in combination may be applied as potential tools for prognosis of OSCC.

Association of VEGF Gene Polymorphisms with the Risk and Prognosis of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common type of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) globally. The aims of this study were to further systematically clarify the potential association of rs833061 (-460 C>T) and rs1570360 (-1154 G>A), two SNPs of VEGF, with the risk of cSCC and the prognostic impacts on cSCC patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS This hospital-based case-control study analyzed peripheral venous blood collected from 100 cSCC patients and 124 healthy controls, and gathered personal information on patients. Genotypes of the VEGF gene -460C>T and -1154G>A polymorphism were detected using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method. Different distributions of allele frequencies and genotype in the case and control group were measured, comparing different genotype differences in the survival of patients with cSCC. RESULTS Distributions of allele frequencies and genotype of -460 C>T in the case and control group were statistically different; the TT + CT genotype was significantly correlated with a decrease risk of cSCC (OR=0.36, 95% CI=0.21-0.63, P<0.001). There was no difference in the distribution of allele frequencies and genotype of -1154 G>A between control and case groups. For -1154460C>T, the CC genotype was an adverse factor, associated with a significant decrease in the survival status of cSCC patients (P<0.001). For VEGF-1154 G>A, the AA genotype was significantly correlated with the reduced overall survival in cSCC patients, with the mean survival time of 23.88 months (P=0.009). CONCLUSIONS The VEGF gene -460 C>T polymorphism and -1154 G>A polymorphism may serve as potential genetic markers for the risk and prognosis of cSCC.

Impact of VEGF, VEGFR, PDGFR, HIF and ERCC1 gene polymorphisms on thymic malignancies outcome after thymectomy

We aimed to analyze genotypes of VEGF-A, VEGFR2, Flt4, PDGFRα, HIF-1α and ERCC1 and their correlation with thymic tumor risk and patient outcome.

DNA of 57 consecutive patients (43 thymomas and 14 thymic carcinomas) who underwent total thymectomy at our Institution was extracted from paraffin-embedded tissue. We selected polymorphisms in the following genes:HIF1-α (rs2057482T > C, rs1951795A > C, rs2301113C > A, rs10873142C > T, rs11158358G > C, rs12434438G > A, rs11549465C > T, rs11549467G > A), VEGF-A (rs2010963G > C, rs699947A > C), VEGFR-2 (rs2305948C > T, rs1870377T > A), VEGFR-3 (rs307826T > C, rs307821C > A), PDGFR-α (rs35597368C > T) and ERCC1 (rs11615A > G). Gene polymorphisms were determined by Real-Time PCR using TaqMan assays.

As compared to the general population, the allele frequency of PDGFR-α rs35597368T was significantly higher (95% vs. 87%, p = 0.036), while the frequency of alleles HIF1-α rs2057482C (78% vs. 90%), rs1951795C (69% vs. 87%), rs2301113A (70% vs. 83%), rs10873142T (70% vs. 87%), rs11158358C (75% vs. 88%), rs12434438A (67% vs. 84%) were significantly lower. VEGFR-3 rs307821C frequency was significantly higher in thymomas vs. thymic carcinomas (79% vs. 72%, p = 0.0371). The following factors were significantly correlated with a longer overall survival: VEGFR-3 rs307826C, VEGFR-2 rs1870377A, PDGFR-α rs35597368T/C, HIF1-α rs2301113C, rs2057482C/T, rs1951795C, rs11158358G/C and rs10873142T/C, ERCC1 rs11615A (p < 0.05).

Our results suggest, for the first time, that PDGFR-α, HIF-1α and VEGFR-3 SNPs are associated with thymic cancer risk and survival.

A vascular endothelial growth factor gene polymorphism predicts malignant potential in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical relevance of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs).

METHODS

A total of 169 IPMN and 108 pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients who underwent curative resection were enrolled, and VEGF +405G/C and -460C/T SNPs were investigated.

RESULTS

Vascular endothelial growth factor +405C/C was found more frequently in malignant IPMNs compared with +405G/G (odds ratio [OR], 2.7; P = 0.04), and +405C allele was associated with malignant IPMNs compared with +405G (P = 0.055). In branch duct IPMNs, VEGF +405C/C was significantly associated with malignant transformation (CC vs GG: OR, 4.0; P = 0.03; CC vs CG + GG: OR, 3.3; P = 0.04), and there was a trend of VEGF +405C/C associated with malignant transformation of gastric-type IPMNs (CC vs GG: OR, 3.0; P = 0.07). When the survival outcomes were analyzed based on VEGF +405G/C SNPs, however, there was no relationship between VEGF SNPs and overall survival in patients with both IPMNs and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas.

CONCLUSIONS

Vascular endothelial growth factor +405G/C SNP was significantly associated with malignant transformation in IPMNs, especially branch duct and gastric-type IPMNs. Vascular endothelial growth factor +405G/C SNP might be helpful in predicting clinical course in pancreatic disease with potential for malignant transformation.

Vascular endothelial growth factor polymorphisms as effect modifiers of oral squamous cell carcinoma risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Smoking is one of the main risk factors for the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Smoking may affect single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-dependent vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced angiogenic activity. Therefore, we systematically reviewed the published VEGF-SNP genotype data of OSCC patients and healthy individuals and performed a meta-analysis comparing the VEGF-SNP genotypes of smoking and non-smoking patients in association with OSCC incidence. Prospective and retrospective studies on the clinical comparison of OSCC patients with different VEGF-SNP genotypes were reviewed. The meta-analysis re-pooled studies of smoking and non-smoking OSCC patients with different VEGF-SNPs between 2006 and 2014. The identified articles were reviewed and those reporting pertinent information, assignment to smoking and non-smoking patient groups and sufficient data for estimation of an odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) were selected for the meta-analysis. Pooled ORs and CIs for the comparison of SNP distribution in the smoking and non-smoking subgroups were calculated and compared using the random-effects model. A total of 7 studies were included in the systematic review, which was followed by a meta-analysis using 3 pertinent studies. The reviewed studies reported discrepant findings, with differences between Asian and European patients. The meta-analysis demonstrated marginal but not statistically significant differences, suggesting that specific VEGF-SNPs may be OSCC risk modifiers for smokers, depending on the ethnic background. The performed meta-analysis suggested an increased OSCC risk for smokers carrying specific VEGF-genotypes, although the calculated data did not reach the level of significance. However, data have to be interpreted with caution due to the limited sample size. Therefore, further studies, including larger patient samples, are mandatory.

Angiogenesis-related prognosis in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma-role of the VEGF +936 C/T polymorphism

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was the immunohistological assessment of VEGF-single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-related angiogenic activity in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in correlation with prognosis.

METHODS

Fifty OSCC samples were immunostained with CD31-antibodies. Mean microvessel density (MVD) and staining intensity were determined and associated with clinicopathological/prognostic features as well as with the VEGF +936C/T SNP.

RESULTS

A significant higher MVD could be seen for T3 and T4 compared with T1 and T2, N > 0 vs. N0 as well as G3-G4 vs. G1-G2 OSCCs (all: P < 0.05). A higher MVD was also associated with increased and earlier rates of local relapses, more metastases, and a significant decreased overall as well as disease-free survival (all: P < 0.05). When comparing T1 and T2 samples with +936-T-allele with T 1&2 samples without this allele, staining intensity was significantly increased (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Angiogenesis influences local as well as distant growth of OSCCs with a significant correlation between prognostic parameters. The correlation between VEGF +936-T-allele and increased CD31 immunostain needs further confirmation.

Estimation of vascular endothelial growth factor gene -460 C/T polymorphism as a biomarker in oral squamous cell carcinoma patients from the Indian subcontinent

AIM

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common malignancies in India. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a major mediator of angiogenesis, is known to play a key role in the pathophysiology of tumorigenesis. Polymorphisms of the VEGF gene have been shown to influence the risk of OSCC, but it remains to be elucidated in the Indian population. Thus, the present study was designed to detect the VEGF gene -460 C/T polymorphism in OSCC patients from the Indian population, which is genetically distinct from previously-studied populations.

METHODS

Peripheral blood samples of 80 OSCC patients and 80 healthy individuals were collected for a case-control study design. The VEGF gene -460 C/T polymorphism was detected by polymerase chain reaction-based restriction analysis.

RESULTS

The analysis revealed significant differences between normal individuals and patients with OSCC (P < 0.05). The distribution of the TT homozygote and the T allele in the patient group was significantly greater than in the control group.

CONCLUSION

The present study provides novel evidence of the role of the VEGF gene -460 C/T polymorphism as a suitable genetic marker of OSCC in the Indian population.

Associations of VEGF and VEGFR2 polymorphisms with increased risk and aggressiveness of multiple myeloma

Angiogenesis has been highlighted as a critical component in the progression of multiple myeloma (MM), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as well as its type 2 receptor (VEGFR2) are thought to play a major role in the process. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been described in VEGF and VEGFR2 genes, with quantitative or qualitative changes in encoded VEGF and VEGFR2. The roles of VEGF -2578C/A, -1154G/A, and -634G/C as well as VEGFR2 -604T/C and +1192G/A SNPs in the risk and manifestations of MM are still unknown; therefore, this study aimed to clarify this issue. DNA from 192 patients and 209 controls were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction for identification of genotypes. The frequencies of VEGF -2578CC, VEGF -2578CC plus VEGF -634GG, and VEGF -2578CC plus VEGF -1154GG plus VEGF -634GG genotypes were higher in patients than in controls. Carriers of the respective genotypes had a 1.89-, a 5.52-, and a 4.91-fold increased risk for MM than others. VEGF -2578CC plus VEGFR2 +1192GG, VEGF -2578CC plus VEGF -634GG plus VEGFR2 +1192GG, and VEGF -1154GG plus VEGF -634GG plus VEGFR2 -604TT combined genotypes were more common in patients than in controls. Carriers of the respective genotypes had a 2.56-, a 10.97-, and a 14.10-fold increased risk for MM than others. An excess of VEGFR2 -604TT genotype was also seen in patients with stage II or III tumors when compared with those with stage I tumors. Our data suggest, for the first time, that inherited abnormalities in VEGF and VEGFR2 pathways influence the risk and aggressiveness of MM.

VEGF +405G/C (rs2010963) polymorphisms and digestive system cancer risk: a meta-analysis

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) polymorphisms, specifically +405G/C (rs2010963), reportedly influence the risk for various digestive cancers. However, the consequences of these polymorphisms remain controversial and ambiguous. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis of 11 studies with VEGF +405G/C genotyping on 2,862 patients and 3,028 controls using the random effects model. We obtained a pooled odds ratio (OR) of 1.04 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.86-1.26) for the recessive genetic model, 1.07 (95% CI = 0.81-1.42) for the dominant genetic model, 1.09 (95% CI = 0.81-1.47) for the homozygote comparison, and 1.03 (95% CI = 0.83-1.27) for the heterozygote comparison. In the subgroup analysis of the recessive model, the OR was 1.20 (95% CI = 1.02-1.40) in colorectal cancer. These results show that VEGF +405G/C polymorphisms are unlikely to be a major determinant of susceptibility to digestive cancer. Furthermore, the subgroup analysis of recessive model indicates that VEGF +405G/C polymorphisms increase the risk for colorectal cancer.

VEGF +936C/T and +460C/T gene polymorphisms and oral cancer risk: a meta-analysis

Many studies have examined the association between the VEGF +936C/T (rs833061) and +460C/T (rs3025039) gene polymorphisms and oral cancer risk in various populations, but their results have been inconsistent. To assess this relationship more precisely, we performed a meta-analysis. The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases were searched for case-control studies that were published up to January 2013. Data were extracted and pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Ultimately, six studies were included, comprising 1006 oral cancer cases and 1016 controls. Overall, the pooled OR for VEGF +936 T allele carriers (TC + TT) versus the wild-type homozygotes (CC) was 1.28 (95 % CI 1.04-1.58; P = 0.228 for heterogeneity), the pooled OR for TT versus CC was 1.64 (95 % CI 1.34-1.98; P = 0.315 for heterogeneity), and the pooled OR for the T allele versus the C allele was 1.42 (95 % CI 1.22-1.76; P = 0.286 for heterogeneity). In the stratified analysis by ethnicity, significant risks were found among Caucasians but not Asians. However, there were no associations between VEGF +460C/T and oral cancer risk in only two of the included studies. In conclusion, this meta-analysis demonstrates that the VEGF +936 T allele may be associated with an increased risk of oral cancer, especially among Caucasian populations.

Vascular endothelial growth factor 936 c>T polymorphism increased oral cancer risk: evidence from a meta-analysis

AIM

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a major role in angiogenesis. The association between VEGF 936 C>T (rs3025039) gene polymorphisms and oral cancer (OC) risk is still contentious and ambiguous. To assess the relationship between the VEGF 936 C>T genotype and the risk of developing OC, we performed a meta-analysis to summarize the possible association.

METHODOLOGY

We assessed published studies of the association between 936 C>T polymorphisms and OC risk from four studies with 440 controls and 556 OC cases. We calculated pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence interval (CI), considering the frequency of allele, homozygous, heterozygous genotypes and comparison of dominant and recessive genetic models.

RESULTS

The combined results showed that the T allele was significantly associated with increased OC risk (T vs. C: p=0.001; OR=1.521, 95% CI=1.194-1.938). The heterozygous genotype CT had a 1.5-fold increased risk (CT vs. CC: p=0.002; OR=1.582, 95% CI=1.184-2.114). In addition the dominant genetic model demonstrated a 1.6-fold increased risk of developing OC (TT+CT vs. CC: p=0.001; OR=1.621, 95% CI=1.226-2.143).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the VEGF gene polymorphism (936 C>T) contributes increased susceptibility to OC. However, larger studies with a stratified case-control population and biological characterization are needed to validate this finding.

VEGF and bFGF gene polymorphisms in Polish patients with B-CLL

Among a variety of angiogenic factors involved in the B cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were identified. Their levels have been regarded as prognostic markers of the progression of disease. The objective of the present study was to assess whether polymorphisms located within the genes coding for these key angiogenic activators contribute to disease susceptibility and/or progression in patients with B-CLL. For this purpose, 180 individuals were investigated, including 68 B-CLL patients and 112 healthy controls. All individuals were typed for the VEGF (936 C > T) and bFGF (−921 C > G) alleles using PCR–RFLP technique. Only a slight prevalence of the VEGF T variant was observed among patients as compared to healthy individuals (p = 0.095) with a significant difference when high risk (stage III/IV) patients were considered (OR = 3.81, p = 0.045). No other significant association was observed between the VEGF polymorphism and progression of the disease. The VEGF alleles and genotypes segregated similarly in patients with different stage of the disease according to Rai classification. No significant relationships were also observed for the bFGF polymorphism with either susceptibility to B-CLL (when compared to control group) or progression of the disease. These results suggest the possible association of the VEGF polymorphism with high risk B-CLL.

Current Evidence on VEGF+405G/C Polymorphism and Malignancy Susceptibility: A Meta-Analysis Involving 30 Studies

The association of VEGF+405G/C (where VEGF is vascular endothelial growth factor) polymorphism and malignancy susceptibility attracts considerable attention because VEGF is one of the most potent angiogenic factors and plays a critical role in the onset and development of malignancy. However, the published findings remain inconclusive. In order to derive a more precise assessment of the association, we performed a meta-analysis including 30 published case-control studies from PubMed, Embase, and Ovid databases. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the strength of the association. In the pooled analyses, no significant association was found between VEGF+405G/C polymorphism and malignancy susceptibility in different genetic models (G-allele vs. C-allele: OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.93–1.07; CC vs. GG: OR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.88–1.15; GC+CC vs. GG: OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.91–1.10; CC vs. GC+GG: OR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.90–1.13). When stratified by ethnicity, a weak association between this polymorphism and malignancy susceptibility was found in African under allelic frequency comparison (OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.43–0.98) and dominant genetic model comparison (OR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.09–3.50). In summary, although our meta-analysis indicated a weak association of VEGF+405G/C polymorphism with malignancy susceptibility in African, no persuasive evidence of association between the polymorphism and malignancy susceptibility was detected in the pooled analyses. Therefore, more studies with larger scale of participants, especially Africans, are required to further evaluate gene-environment interaction on this polymorphism and malignancy susceptibility.

The effect of CCND1 +870A>G and VEGF +936C>T polymorphisms on oral cancer development and disease-free survival in a Taiwan population

The association between polymorphisms in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) +936C>T and cyclin D1 (CCND1) +870A>G genes, oral cancer risk, and disease-free survival remains controversial. We found no association between polymorphisms in the CCND1 and VEGF genes and oral cancer development using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Clinical data indicated that the VEGF +936C>T polymorphisms were associated with larger tumor size and advanced cancer stage, but the χ(2) test did not show that CCND1 polymorphisms were associated with larger tumor size and advanced cancer stage. However, Cox proportional hazards model analysis showed no correlation between the VEGF +936C>T polymorphisms and poor disease-free survival. The CCND1 +870A>G polymorphisms (hazard ratio (HR)=1.62, 95% CI=1.10-2.46; adjusted HR=1.63, 95% CI=1.08-2.54) and larger tumor size were associated with poor 5-year disease-free survival by the log rank test and multivariate Cox proportional hazards model analysis. We hypothesized that polymorphisms in CCND1 +870A>G and VEGF +936C>T genes are not correlated with the development of oral cancer. We found the CCND1 +870G allele to be an independent risk factor for poor 5-year disease-free survival in oral cancer patients. VEGF +936C>T polymorphisms were not directly correlated with poor survival, but they might be associated with increased tumor size, which affected our disease-free survival results.