Association between IL-4 -589C>T polymorphism and colorectal cancer risk

Abstract

In order to make a comprehensive assessment of the potential association between interleukin-4 (IL-4) -589C>T and colorectal cancer (CRC) susceptibility, we conducted a meta-analysis of six epidemiological studies, which included 1,317 CRC patients and 1,659 controls. The data showed that IL-4 -589C>T was not associated with increased CRC risk in the overall population. In the subgroup analysis of IL-4 -589C>T, the results did not change when the analyses were restricted to race. Based on this meta-analysis, we conclude that IL-4 -589C>T may be not a risk factor for CRC development. Further research is needed to assess possible gene-gene or gene-environment-lifestyle interactions on CRC.

Association of IL4 , IL13 , and IL4R polymorphisms with gastrointestinal cancer risk: A meta-analysis

“…In previous meta-analyses, Sun et al 12 . reported a possible positive association between gastric cancer and the IL4 rs2243250 T allele in Caucasians, but Li et al 10 . and Wu et al 9 .…”

“…Recently, several studies were conducted investigating the influence of these allergy-related polymorphisms on gastrointestinal cancer in different populations 9, 10. Because the effect of genetic polymorphisms on cancer risk is small, a single study may be underpowered to detect a true association.…”

“…Meta-analysis takes advantage of reduced random error in the observed effect estimates and produces a single estimate with enhanced precision 11 . Some previous meta-analyses were conducted to investigate the association of IL4 rs2243250 with either gastric cancer 12 or colorectal cancer 9, 10. However, the findings of these meta-analyses were inconclusive, and other polymorphisms of the IL4/IL13 pathway may help to clarify the role of polymorphisms in these genes in gastrointestinal carcinogenesis.…”