The balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine expression is
essential for an efficient immune response and for the regulation of cancer
development and progression. This study analyzed the expression and genetic
variation in IL-1?, IL-6 and IL-10 genes and the possible associations with
colorectal cancer (CRC) and colorectal liver metastases (CRLM).We examined
IL-1?, IL-6 and IL-10 mRNA expression and three gene variants: IL-1?
(rs1143627), IL-10 (rs1800872) and IL-6 (rs1800795), in 198 CRC, 65 CRLM
patients and 230 controls. Carriers of the C/T genotype of IL-1? (rs1143627)
have an increased risk of developing CRC and CRLM. T/T genotype carriers
have a higher risk of CRLM incidence. For IL-10 (rs1800872), patients
harboring the C/A genotype have a lower risk of CRC and CRLM occurrence. For
IL-6 (rs1800795), the C/C genotype heightens the risk of CRLM development.
Overall survival analysis showed that carriers of the C/T genotype of IL-1?
(rs1143627) have a worse overall survival in CRC patients. It can be
concluded that interleukin genetic variants can be used as biomarkers to
detect and predict clinical outcomes and prognostic factors for CRC and
CRLM.