Implication of glutathione S-transferase M1 and T1 polymorphisms in the development of senile cataract among Egyptians.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of glutathione S-transferases M1 and T1 polymorphisms on the risk of senile cataract among Egyptians.

BACKGROUND

The glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are polymorphic enzymes that are important in the protection against oxidative damage.

METHODS

Using a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR), GSTM1 and GSTT1 gene polymorphisms were evaluated in 53 Egyptians with senile cataract and in 73 healthy individuals of the control group.

RESULTS

The frequency of GSTM1-positive individuals among the senile cataract group was significantly higher than in controls. The risk among the GSTM1-positive individuals of developing senile cataract was even higher in females. It is also increased with combination of "GSTM1-positive and GSTT1-positive" genotypes. However the combination of "GSTM1-null, GSTT1-positive" was found to be protective (OR = 0.47; 95 % CI: 0.22-0.99; p = 0.045).

CONCLUSION

The GSTMI-positive genotype and the combined "GSTM1-positive/GSTT1-positive" genotype may be associated with an increased risk of development of senile cataract among Egyptians. However, the "GSTM1-null/GSTT1-positive" genotype was found to be protective. Therefore, when evaluating the role of a particular GST gene in disease susceptibility, the whole pattern of different biotransformation enzymes should be taken into account (Tab. 4, Fig. 1, Ref. 36). Full Text (Free, PDF) www.bmj.sk.