TGFBR1*6A polymorphism in sporadic and familial colorectal Carcinoma: a case-control study and systematic literature review.

BACKGROUND

The role of genetic factors in colorectal cancer pathogenesis is widely accepted. Polymorphisms are actually thought to play a role in the unexplained colorectal cancer (CRC) susceptibility. There is conflicting data regarding the role of the transforming growth factor beta receptor 1 polymorphism 6A (TGFBR1*6A) in the increased incidence of CRC.

PURPOSE

Our aim is to test the association between this polymorphism and sporadic/familial CRC in the Lebanese population paying attention to lead time bias in the control group. This is a case-control study conducted in two Lebanese hospital centers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cases were diagnosed with CRC during the period of 1 year prior to the study. Controls were healthy subjects aged >50 years with a history of normal colonoscopy during the period of 5 years prior to the beginning of the study. A total of 96 cases (57 sporadic/39 familial) and 97 controls were genotyped. The odds ratios for 6A carrier status was statistically significant for sporadic CRC, odds ratio (OR) = 2.314 (95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.030-5.195) but not for familial CRC.

RESULTS

No association was found between 6A carrier status and mean age at diagnosis of CRC. This is the first article in the literature to evaluate the association between 6A polymorphism and total, sporadic, and familial CRC in a single study with reduction of bias in the control group. Results are in conjunction with other studies and meta-analysis.