Vascular endothelial growth factor gene-460 C/T polymorphism is a biomarker for prostate cancer

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.

VEGF single nucleotide polymorphisms predict improved outcome in advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients treated with platinum-based chemotherapy

We aimed to investigate the prognostic role of genetic variants of VEGF in advanced NSCLC patients treated with platinum-based chemotherapy. A total of 196 patients with advanced NSCLC treated with first-line platinum-based chemotherapy were enrolled. We evaluated the relationship between VEGF polymorphisms and efficacy outcomes and chemotherapy toxicity. We found that rs699947, rs833061 and rs1005230 were in full linkage disequilibrium. Patients with CC genotype of rs833061 had a significant longer PFS than TT genotype (CC vs TT, HR = 1.67, 95%CI = 1.01-2.76, P = 0.043). Patients harbouring CC genotype had longer PFS compared with CT genotype (P < 0.001). Moreover, CC genotypes conferred a significantly increased PFS compared to CT and TT genotype in dominant model (CC vs CT + TT, HR = 1.95, 95%CI = 1.23-3.10, P = 0.005). Patients carrying TT genotype of rs833061 had improved both ORR (HR = 0.54, 95%CI = 0.30-0.98, P = 0.041) and DCR (HR = 0.37, 95%CI = 0.20-0.66, P = 0.001) than non-TT patients. Furthermore, no association was found between any rs833061 alleles and adverse events (P = 0.425), but patients carrying rs1570360 AA genotype were more likely to experience grade 3-4 toxicities (P = 0.004) (GG vs AA, HR = 3.16, 95%CI = 1.26-7.94, P = 0.015). In conclusion, the variant homozygote CC of rs833061 exhibited a better prognosis based on association analysis. The present study provides reference for the future study of platinum-based chemotherapy response and toxicity.

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.

The Role of Polymorphisms in Genes of PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway on Prostate

Background and Objective: Increasing evidence suggested that polymorphisms in genes of PI3K/Akt pathway were closely related to prostate cancer (PCa) risk. Nevertheless, these results are controversial and inconclusive. Here, we conducted a comprehensive updated meta-analysis and systematic review to precisely illustrate the association between polymorphisms in genes of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and PCa risk.

Materials and Methods: The gene set of PI3K/Akt pathway was referenced from the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) website. Relevant studies were identified by the systematically researching on PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases up to October 1, 2017. The odds ratios (ORs) with a corresponding 95% confidential intervals (95%CIs) were applied to test their associations. All the analyses were conducted by using Stata 12.0 (Stata Corporation, USA).

Results: Finally, 38 articles comprising 62 case-control studies were enrolled for 13 polymorphisms in genes of PI3K/Akt pathway. However, overall results failed to present a positive association between polymorphisms in genes of PI3K/Akt pathway and PCa risk. Nevertheless, in the subgroup analysis by ethnicity, we identified that IL-6-rs1800795 polymorphism was associated with an increased risk of PCa for Caucasian individuals in dominant model (MM + MW vs. WW: OR = 1.245, 95%CI = 1.176-1.318, P < 0.001).

Conclusion: Our work suggests that polymorphisms in genes of PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway are not risk factor for PCa. Further well-designed studies with larger samples and precise designs are demanded to corroborate our findings.

Association Between 12 Polymorphisms of VEGF/Hypoxia/Angiogenesis Pathway Genes and Risk of Urogenital Carcinomas: A Meta-Analysis Based on Case-Control Studies

Objective: Previous studies indicated potential associations between polymorphisms in genes of VEGF/hypoxia/angiogenesis pathway and risk of urogenital carcinomas However, the results were controversial and inconclusive. Here, we conducted an in-depth meta-analysis to investigate the precise associations between polymorphisms in VEGF/hypoxia/angiogenesis related genes and risk of urogenital carcinomas.

Methods: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library to identify all eligible publications. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) corresponding with the 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to evaluate their associations. Subgroup analysis was conducted to further ascertain such relationship and investigate sources of heterogeneity.

Results: In the end, a total of 96 case-control studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria were enrolled for 12 polymorphisms in 4 VEGF/hypoxia/angiogenesis related genes. The pooled results showed eNOS-rs2070744 polymorphism conferred a significantly increased overall risk of urogenital carcinomas in allele, homozygote, and recessive models, respectively. In addition, eNOS-Intron 4a/b VNTR polymorphism was identified related to an increased risk of urogenital carcinomas in recessive model. And VEGF-rs699947 polymorphism was also identified an increased risk of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in allelic, heterozygote, dominant, homozygote, and recessive models.

Conclusion: To conclude, eNOS-rs2070744 and eNOS-Intron 4a/b VNTR polymorphisms are risk factors for urogenital carcinomas. VEGF-rs699947 polymorphism was also identified as an increased risk factor for renal carcinoma.

Influence of HOTAIR rs920778 and rs12826786 genetic variants on prostate cancer risk and progression-free survival

Aim: Evaluate the impact of the single nucleotide polymorphisms rs920778 and rs12826786 in the long noncoding RNA HOTAIR in the susceptibility and prognosis of prostate cancer (PCa) patients. Patients & methods: HOTAIR single nucleotide polymorphisms were genotyped by restriction fragment length polymorphism in 151 PCa cases and 180 cancer-free controls. Odds ratio, 95% CIs and prognostic significance were calculated. Results: Our data showed no statistically significant associations between HOTAIR polymorphic variants in rs920778 and rs12826786 and PCa susceptibility. However, the CC genotype in rs12826786 was significantly associated with shorter biochemical recurrence-free survival in pT3-stage PCa patients. Conclusion: Our results indicate that HOTAIR rs12826786 CC genotype may be an independent prognostic biomarker in a particular subset of PCa tumors.

Excessive angiogenesis associated with psoriasis as a cause for cardiovascular ischaemia

Psoriasis, a common disease affecting 2%-3% of the UK population, produces significant impairment of quality of life and is an immense burden on sufferers and their families. Psoriasis is associated with significant cardiovascular comorbidity and the metabolic syndrome. Angiogenesis, a relatively under-researched component of psoriasis, is a key factor in pathogenesis of psoriasis and also contributes to the development of atherosclerosis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a well-established mediator of pathological angiogenesis which is upregulated in psoriasis. It is possible that, in patients with psoriasis, cutaneous angiogenesis may be both a marker for systemic vascular pathology and a novel therapeutic target. In this viewpoint study, the role of VEGF-mediated angiogenesis as a cause for cardiovascular events in patients with psoriasis is explored.

Genetic alterations of IDH1 and Vegf in brain tumors

BACKGROUND

This study evaluates the presence of R132H mutation in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH1) gene and the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) +936 C/T polymorphism in brain tumors. The impact of these genetic alterations on overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS) was evaluated.

METHODS

A cohort of 80 patients surgically treated at Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, between March 2004 and November 2012, was analyzed. Tumors were distributed in 73 primary brain tumors (gliomas, meningiomas, hemangiopericytomas and hemangioblastomas) and seven secondary tumors evolved from a low grade glioma, thus providing a mixed sample.

RESULTS

IDH1^R132H gene mutation was found in 12 patients (15%) and appears more frequently in secondary tumors (5 (71.4%) whereas in 7 (9.7%) primary tumors (p < .001)). The mutation is related to WHO grade II in primary tumors and a supratentorial location in secondary tumors. The OS analysis for IDH1 showed a tendency towards a better prognosis of the tumors containing the mutation (p = .059).The IDH1^R132H mutation confers a better PFS (p = .025) on primary tumors. The T allele of VEFG +936 C/T polymorphism was found in 16 patients (20%). No relation was found between this polymorphism and primary or secondary tumor, neither with OS or PFS.

CONCLUSIONS

IDH1^R132H gene mutation is exclusive in supratentorial tumors and more frequent in secondary ones, with a greater survival trend and better PFS in patients who carry it. The T allele of VEGF +936 C/T polymorphism is more common in primary tumors, although there is no statistical relation with survival.

Impact of VEGF gene polymorphisms in elderly cancer patients: clinical outcome and toxicity

Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) are the key regulators in angiogenesis and have been shown to play a significant role in the progression and prognosis of angiogenesis-related diseases, such as cancer. VEGF inhibitors are a current pharmacological tumoral strategy. However, despite the strong association between aging and cancer incidence and progression, recent findings suggest impaired angiogenesis accompanied by a reduced expression of VEGF in cells derived from aging subjects. Specific variations of VEGF genes have been demonstrated to be genetic determinants for susceptibility, outcome and therapy response, especially for the solid tumors. Considering the complications present in frail elderly patients, analysis of VEGF genetic polymorphisms in these subjects may further help in tailoring an angiogenic pharmacological strategy, and in improving our ability to better understand prognosis during therapy-related to cancer.

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.

Genetic variation: effect on prostate cancer

The crucial role of androgens in the development of prostate cancer is well established. The aim of this review is to examine the role of constitutional (germline) and tumor-specific (somatic) polymorphisms within important regulatory genes of prostate cancer. These include genes encoding enzymes of the androgen biosynthetic pathway, the androgen receptor gene, genes that encode proteins of the signal transduction pathways that may have a role in disease progression and survival, and genes involved in prostate cancer angiogenesis. Characterization of deregulated pathways critical to cancer cell growth have lead to the development of new treatments, including the CYP17 inhibitor abiraterone and clinical trials using novel drugs that are ongoing or recently completed [1]. The pharmacogenetics of the drugs used to treat prostate cancer will also be addressed. This review will define how germline polymorphisms are known affect a multitude of pathways, and therefore phenotypes, in prostate cancer etiology, progression, and treatment.

Assessment of the associations between three VEGF polymorphisms and risk of prostate cancer

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a crucial role in the regulation of angiogenesis and is involved in the development and metastasis of common cancers. There were several case-controls studies published to assess the associations of VEGF polymorphisms with risk of prostate cancer, but the findings were inconsistent. We performed a meta-analysis to provide a comprehensive assessment of the associations of three VEGF polymorphisms with risk of prostate cancer. The pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was calculated to assess the associations. Eleven individual case-control studies with a total of 5,209 cases of prostate cancer and 5,233 controls were finally included into our meta-analysis. Overall, VEGF rs833061 polymorphism was not associated with risk of prostate cancer (T versus C, OR = 1.14, 95% CI 0.91-1.44, P = 0.26; TT versus CC, OR = 1.09, 95% CI 0.67-1.76, P = 0.74; TT versus

CC/CT

OR = 1.46, 95% CI 0.67-3.18, P = 0.34; TT/CT versus CC, OR = 1.08, 95% CI 0.82-1.43, P = 0.59). VEGF rs3025039 polymorphism was also not associated with risk of prostate cancer (T versus C, OR = 1.03, 95% CI 0.91-1.16, P = 0.66; TT versus CC, OR = 1.82 95% CI 0.16-20.53, P = 0.63; TT versus CC/CT, OR = 2.00, 95% CI 0.18-22.41, P = 0.57; TT/CT versus CC, OR = 0.72, 95% CI 0.38-1.36, P = 0.31). VEGF rs2010963 polymorphism was not associated with risk of prostate cancer under three models (C versus G, OR = 1.17, 95% CI 0.92-1.48, P = 0.20; CC versus GG, OR = 2.28, 95% CI 0.90-5.75, P = 0.08; CC versus GG/GC, OR = 1.57, 95% CI 0.67-3.68, P = 0.30). In conclusison, current data suggest that those three VEGF polymorphisms are not obviously associated with risk of prostate cancer.

The RTK/ERK pathway is associated with prostate cancer risk on the SNP level: a pooled analysis of 41 sets of data from case-control studies

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a malignant disease influencing numerous men worldwide every year. However, the exact pathogenesis and the genes, environment, and other factors involved have not been explained clearly. Some studies have proposed that cell signaling pathways might play a key role in the development and progression of PCa. According to our previous study, the RTK/ERK pathway containing nearly 40 genes was associated with PCa risk. On the basis of these genes, we conducted a meta-analysis with our own Chinese Consortium for Prostate Cancer Genetics (ChinaPCa) study and available studies in the databases to describe the association between the pathway and PCa on the SNP level. The results suggested that rs4764695/IGF1 (recessive model: pooled OR=0.92, 95%CI=0.852-0.994, P=0.034; I(2)=0%, P=0.042; allele analysis: pooled OR=0.915, 95%CI=0.874-0.958, P=0; I(2)=0%, P=0.424; codominant model: OR=0.835, 95%CI=0.762-0.916, P=0; I(2)=0%, P=0.684) and rs1570360/VEGF (recessive model: OR=0.596, 95%CI=0.421-0.843, P=0.003; I(2)=23.9%, P=0.269; codominant model: OR=0.576, 95%CI=0.404-0.820, P=0.002; I(2)=49.1%, P=0.140) were significantly associated with PCa. In subgroup analysis, the relationship was also found in Caucasians for IGF1 (dominant model: OR=0.834, 95%CI=0.769-0.904, P=0; allele analysis: OR=0.908, 95%CI=0.863-0.955, P=0; AA vs CC: OR=0.829, 95%CI=0.750-0.916, P=0; AC vs CC: OR=0.837, 95%CI=0.768-0.912, P=0). In addition, in Asians (allele analysis: OR=0.21, 95%CI=0.168-0.262, P=0) and Caucasians (recessive model: OR=0.453, 95%CI: 0.240-0.855, P=0.015; codominant model: OR=0.464, 95%CI=0.240-0.898, P=0.023) for VEGF, the association was significant. The results indicated that rs4764695/IGF1 and rs1570360/VEGF might play a key role in the development and progression of PCa. On the SNP level, we suggest that the study gives us a new view of gene-pathway analysis and targeted therapy for PCa.

Clinical significance of vascular endothelial growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 gene polymorphisms in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors

AIM

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or its family might play role in tumor-related angiogenesis in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), thereby affecting the prognosis. Accordingly, the present study analyzed the impact of VEGF and VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) gene polymorphisms on the prognosis for GIST patients.

METHODS

In all, 213 consecutive patients with GIST from five medical centers were enrolled in the present study. The genomic DNA was extracted from paraffin-embedded tumor tissue, and four VEGF (-2578C/A, -1498C/T, -634G/C, and +936C/T) and one VEGFR-2 (+1416A/T) gene polymorphisms were determined using a Sequenom MassARRAY system.

RESULTS

With a median follow up of 18.4 months, the estimated 5-year relapse-free survival and overall survival rates were 70 and 87%, respectively. In a multivariate analysis including age, sex, primary site of disease, pathology and risk stratification, no significant association was observed between the polymorphism of the VEGF and VEGFR-2 genes and survival.

CONCLUSION

None of the five VEGF and VEGFR-2 gene polymorphisms investigated in this study was found to be an independent prognostic marker for Korean patients with surgically resected GIST. However, further studies on a larger scale are warranted to clarify the role of VEGF and VEGFR gene polymorphisms as a prognostic biomarker for GIST patients.

Association of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene polymorphism and increased serum VEGF concentration with pancreatic adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND &AIM: Pancreatic cancer is related to high mortality rate. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has a strong influence in tumor-related angiogenesis having association with the grade of angiogenesis and the prognosis of different solid tumors including pancreatic cancer. The present study was aimed to analyze the genotype and haplotype distribution of VEGF gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), -460T/C, +405G/C, +936C/T, in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma from South India, and the effect of these SNPs on serum VEGF level.

METHODS

Total 80 patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma and 87 controls were recruited. The genotype of VEGF gene polymorphisms was determined in both patients and controls using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. The serum VEGF protein was estimated by standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

The genotype, +405G/G of VEGF gene showed a significant association with the patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (P = 0.012, Odds ratio: 2.133), whereas no significant difference was found in the genotype distribution of SNPs, -460C/T and +936C/T between patient and control groups (P > 0.05). Serum VEGF level was found to be significantly high in patients (1315.10 pg/Ml, SD ± 230.79) when compared to controls (591.35 pg/mL, SD ± 92.48) (P < 0.0001), which showed a strong genotype-phenotype correlation between genotype +405G/G and serum VEGF level. Further, the haplotype C-G-T showed a strong association with the disease, and no specific haplotype was associated with increased serum VEGF level.

CONCLUSION

The polymorphism, +405G/C but not -460T/C and +936C/T, of VEGF gene is strongly associated with pancreatic adenocarcinoma, and this SNP has significant influence on serum VEGF level.

Association of the vascular endothelial growth factor gene polymorphisms (-460C/T, +405G/C and +936T/C) with endometriosis: a meta-analysis

Published data on the association between the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene -460C/T (rs833061), +405G/C (rs2010963), +936T/C (rs3025039) polymorphisms and endometriosis risk are inconclusive. Eleven eligible case-control studies including 2690 cases and 2803 controls were included in this meta-analysis through searching the databases of PubMed and CBMdisc (up to August 1, 2011). In the overall analysis, no significant association between the -460C/T and +405G/C polymorphisms and risk of endometriosis was observed. However, significant associations were observed between endometriosis risk and VEGF+936T polymorphism with summarized odds ratio of 1.19 (95%CI, 1.02-1.37), 1.18 (95%CI, 1.03-1.37), 1.15 (95%CI, 1.01-1.30) for CT versus CC genotype, dominant mode (CT/TT vs. CC) and allele comparison (T vs. C), respectively. Furthermore, stratified analysis showed that significantly strong association between +936T/C polymorphism and endometriosis was present only in stage III-IV (OR = 1.32 for dominant mode; OR = 1.30 for T vs. C), but not in stage I-II. However, no significantly increased risk of endometriosis was found in any of the genetic models in Asians or in Caucasians. This meta-analysis supports that VEGF+936T/C polymorphism is capable of causing endometriosis susceptibility.

Association of -2549 insertion/deletion polymorphism of vascular endothelial growth factor with breast cancer in North Indian patients

AIMS

The aim of the present study was to assess the role of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) -2549 insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism in susceptibility to sporadic breast cancer.

METHODS

DNA samples of 94 breast cancer patients and 94 unrelated healthy control individuals with matched age and gender from the same geographical region of Punjab, North West India were screened for the -2549 I/D polymorphism. Serum VEGF-C (sVEGF-C) levels of breast cancer patients and healthy controls were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

The frequency of the II, ID, and DD genotype was 23.40 versus 10.64%, 48.94 versus 52.13%, and 27.66 versus 37.23%, in patients and controls, respectively. A statistically significant difference was observed for genotype distribution among the patients and controls (χ(2)=6.039, p=0.049). There was a significant increase in the I allele frequency in the patients as compared with controls (47.86 versus 36.70%, p=0.028). The sVEGF-C levels were also considerably higher in patients as compared to healthy controls (p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The VEGF -2549 I/D polymorphism has a role in the susceptibility to breast cancer in the Amritsar region of Punjab, India.

Polymorphism of VEGF-460C/T associated with the risk and clinical characteristics of lung cancer in Chinese population

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a major regulator of angiogenesis in the process of tumor growth and metastasis. Different VEGF gene polymorphisms have been shown to result in different VEGF protein expression in cancer cells and tumor angiogenic activity. We conducted a case-control study to evaluate the genetic effects of VEGF-460C/T polymorphism on the development of lung cancer. One hundred and twenty-six lung cancer patients and 160 sex-, age-, and ethnic-matched healthy controls were recruited for this study. The genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI) were calculated by logistic regression analysis. Our study showed that the TT genotype was associated with increased lung cancer risk than those with the CC (OR = 1.99, 95 % CI 1.05-3.77) or CT/CC (OR = 1.89, 95 % CI 1.17-3.06) genotype. Moreover, it was observed that the TT genotype associated with the advanced stage among lung cancer patients (TT vs. CC: OR = 3.09, 95 % CI 1.10-8.66). More studies are needed to detect VEGF-460C/T polymorphism and its association with lung cancer in different ethnic populations incorporated with environmental exposures.

Influence of vascular endothelial growth factor single nucleotide polymorphisms on non-small cell lung cancer tumor angiogenesis

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays an important role in tumor angiogenesis. Several studies have reported that genomic VEGF polymorphisms may influence VEGF synthesis. To evaluate the role of VEGF single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we examined the expression of several angiogenesis-related proteins [VEGF, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and delta-like ligand 4 (Dll4)] and the spread of microvessels in resected non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Blood and tumor tissue from 83 patients with NSCLC were examined for VEGF −460T/C (rs833061) and VEGF +405G/C (rs2010963) SNPs using the SNaPshot method. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to measure protein expression and microvessel density (MVD). VEGF −460T/C and +405G/C SNPs showed no association with VEGF or HIF-1α expression and MVD. Patients with VEGF −460TT and the TC genotype had significantly higher MVD compared to those with the CC genotypes. Furthermore, patients with the VEGF −460TT genotype had significantly higher Dll4 expression compared to those with the TC or CC genotypes, while the VEGF +405G/C SNP displayed no association with Dll4 expression and MVD. These findings indicate that the VEGF −460T/C SNP may have a functional influence on tumor angiogenesis in NSCLC. We hypothesize that VEGF SNPs may influence angiogenesis through Dll4.

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) polymorphisms and the risk of endometriosis in northern Iran

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is known to be a key molecule in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. In this study, we evaluated whether two polymorphisms -460T>C and +405G>C in VEGF are related with the susceptibility to endometriosis in northern Iran. Genomic DNA derived from patients with endometriosis and healthy women were analysed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. The total number of 1080 subjects (480 patients with endometriosis and 600 normal controls) was enrolled into the study. We used the Chi-square (χ(2)) test to evaluate each allele and genotype frequency of -460T>C and +405G>C polymorphisms among the cases and controls. The associations between the polymorphisms and the risk of endometriosis were estimated by odds ratio and their 95% confidence intervals. There was no significant differences in the VEGF -460T>C genotypes and allele frequencies between control women and endometriosis patients (P = 0.63). In contrast, an increased frequency of the +405CC genotype was observed in the patients with endometriosis as compared with the controls. The +405C allele was associated with the presence of endometriosis. It is concluded that the +405G>C polymorphism in VEGF may be associated with higher risk of endometriosis in northern Iran.

Gene variants in the angiogenesis pathway and prostate cancer

Although the causes of prostate cancer are still unknown, numerous studies support the role of genetic factors in the development and progression of this disease. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in key angiogenesis genes have been studied in prostate cancer. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge of the role of genetic variants in the angiogenesis pathway in prostate cancer risk and progression. Of the 17 prostate cancer genome-wide association studies (GWAS) conducted to date, only one identified disease-associated SNPs in a region of an angiogenesis pathway gene. An association was observed between aggressive disease and three intergenic SNPs (rs11199874, rs10749408 and rs10788165) in a region on chromosome 10q26 that encompasses FGFR2. The majority (27/32, 84.4%) of primary candidate gene studies reviewed had a small (n < 800, 20/32, 62.5%) to medium sample size (n = 800-2000, 7/32, 21.9%), whereas only five (15.6%) had a large sample size (n ≥ 2000). Results from the large studies revealed associations with risk and aggressive disease for SNPs in NOS2A, NOS3 and MMP-2 and risk for HIF1-α. Meta-analyses have so far been conducted on FGFR2, TGF-β, TNF-α, HIF1-α and IL10 and the results reveal an association with risk for SNPs in FGFR2 and TGF-β and aggressive disease for SNPs in IL-10. Thus, existing evidence from GWAS and large candidate gene studies indicates that SNPs from a limited number of angiogenesis pathway genes are associated with prostate cancer risk and progression.

Relationship of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) +405 G/C polymorphism and proliferative retinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes

The role of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene polymorphism in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is controversial. VEGF seems to play a central role in mediating microvascular pathology in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Recently, a +405 G/C VEGF polymorphism was shown to be associated with PDR. The aim of the current study was to evaluate whether the VEGF gene polymorphism is an independent risk factor for severity of diabetic retinopathy in an Iranian adult population. A total of 119 consecutive patients with PDR (group A) and 279 patients with nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy NPDR (group B) were studied. Patients were recruited from the eye clinic of Ahvaz Jondi Shapour University of Medical Sciences between January 2007 and April 2009. After extraction of genomic DNA, genotyping of the +405 G/C polymorphism of the VEGF gene was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. Demographic, anthropometric, and plasma biochemistry data were recorded. In univariate analysis, the groups were statistically similar in all variables except for hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and +405 G/C polymorphism. The distribution of the GC genotype was significantly different in patients with PDR compared with NPDR. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis (using sex and body mass index as clinically significant variables and HbA1c and genotype as statistically significant variables) was then used to determine independent associations and adjusted odds ratios (ORs), the GG genotype (compared with the CC genotype) was an independent predictor of PDR [OR = 1.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.034-3.383 P = 0.039]. The HbA1c was more common in the PDR group (P = 0.004); in a multivariate regression, the association remained significant (OR = 1.194, 95% CI = 1.056-1.350, P = 0.005). These findings suggest that the VEGF +405 GG polymorphism might be associated with the risk of proliferative diabetic retinopathy in an Iranian population.

Vascular endothelial growth factor +936C/T polymorphism and gastric cancer risk: A meta-analysis

The aim of this study was to determine whether the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) +936C/T polymorphism confers susceptibility to gastric cancer (GC) by conducting a meta-analysis. Publications addressing the association between the VEGF +936C/T polymorphism and GC risk were selected from the Pubmed, Embase and CBM databases. Data were extracted from the studies by two independent reviewers. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.0.25 and STATA 9.2 software. From these data, the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated. Finally, 8 case-control studies were retrieved reporting a total of 2,131 gastrointestinal cancer patients and 2,670 controls. Meta-analysis results showed that there was no significant association between the VEGF +936C/T polymorphism and GC risk in all comparisons of the T allele vs. C allele (OR=1.08, 95% CI 0.90-1.30, P=0.42), CT+TT vs. CC (OR=1.08, 95% CI 0.87-1.34, P=0.49), TT vs. CC+CT (OR=1.14, 95% CI 0.85-1.53, P=0.37), TT vs. CC (OR=1.18, 95% CI 0.87-1.59, P=0.28) and TT vs. CT (OR=1.11, 95% CI 0.79-1.56, P=0.56). This meta-analysis confirms that there is a lack of association between the VEGF +936C/T polymorphism and GC risk.

Genetics of VEGF serum variation in human isolated populations of cilento: importance of VEGF polymorphisms

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is the main player in angiogenesis. Because of its crucial role in this process, the study of the genetic factors controlling VEGF variability may be of particular interest for many angiogenesis-associated diseases. Although some polymorphisms in the VEGF gene have been associated with a susceptibility to several disorders, no genome-wide search on VEGF serum levels has been reported so far. We carried out a genome-wide linkage analysis in three isolated populations and we detected a strong linkage between VEGF serum levels and the 6p21.1 VEGF region in all samples. A new locus on chromosome 3p26.3 significantly linked to VEGF serum levels was also detected in a combined population sample. A sequencing of the gene followed by an association study identified three common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) influencing VEGF serum levels in one population (Campora), two already reported in the literature (rs3025039, rs25648) and one new signal (rs3025020). A fourth SNP (rs41282644) was found to affect VEGF serum levels in another population (Cardile). All the identified SNPs contribute to the related population linkages (35% of the linkage explained in Campora and 15% in Cardile). Interestingly, none of the SNPs influencing VEGF serum levels in one population was found to be associated in the two other populations. These results allow us to exclude the hypothesis that the common variants located in the exons, intron-exon junctions, promoter and regulative regions of the VEGF gene may have a causal effect on the VEGF variation. The data support the alternative hypothesis of a multiple rare variant model, possibly consisting in distinct variants in different populations, influencing VEGF serum levels.

VEGF polymorphisms are associated with an increasing risk of developing renal cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

Vascular endothelial cell growth factor is studied in different malignant tumors as a key endothelial cell mitogen. Many single nucleotide polymorphisms in the VEGF gene have been described. We compared VEGF gene polymorphisms between a control group and a renal cancer group.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was performed in 202 control, white, healthy blood donors (control group) and in 51 consecutive patients with renal cell carcinoma. We studied VEGF genotype polymorphisms at positions -2549, -460, -1154, +405 and +936 using polymerase chain restriction fragment length polymorphism, and looked for correlations with clinical data.

RESULTS

No association was found between VEGF gene polymorphism and renal cell carcinoma prognostic parameters. However, in contrast as observed for controls and other polymorphisms the patient group displayed a heterozygote excess (p = 0.0179, 35.9% more than that expected) at the -460 polymorphism. Comparing the control group and the renal cell carcinoma group we detected a significantly increased risk of renal cell carcinoma in subjects with the C-460T polymorphism. T carrier genotypes and the T allele increased the risk of renal cell carcinoma with an OR of 14.15 (95% CI 1.900-105.41, p = 0.0017) and 2.14 (95% CI 1.34-3.419, p = 0.0018), respectively. The genotype at the -2549 polymorphism exhibited a nonsignificant trend for increased risk but the D allele was significantly associated with increased risk (p = 0.0305).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the -460 polymorphism is a risk factor for renal cancer. An individual screening test could be proposed for high risk populations.

VEGF -460T → C polymorphism and its association with VEGF expression and outcome to FOLFOX-4 treatment in patients with colorectal carcinoma

The -460T → C polymorphism of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene significantly increases its promoter activity. A pilot study was conducted to assess the influence of this polymorphism on clinicopathological features of patients with colorectal carcinoma. In total, 228 patients were enrolled, including 100 with stage II/III colorectal carcinoma receiving curative surgery and 128 with metastatic disease. An excellent correlation in VEGF -460 genotypes based on white blood cells and tumor tissues existed, but there was no between-group difference in patients with or without colorectal carcinoma. A marked increase in intratumor and circulating VEGF levels were observed in patients with the T/C or C/C genotypes (P < 0.01), which was associated with increased extent of invasion, nodal involvement, poor histological differentiation, subsequent metastasis and shorter survival in stage II/III patients treated with curative surgery (P < 0.01). For patients with metastatic disease, this polymorphism was associated with a lower response rate to FOLFOX-4 (P = 0.03) and shorter survival (P < 0.001). By multivariate analysis, this polymorphism was identified as an independent prognostic factor (P = 0.01). These data suggest that -460T → C polymorphism of VEGF gene, by increasing VEGF expression and subsequent angiogenesis, could be a key determinant for increased tumor recurrence and a poor prognosis of patients with colorectal carcinoma. However, this study is exploratory and is not adjusted for multiple comparisons, requiring independent replication.

Synergistic effect and VEGF/HSP70-hom haplotype analysis: relationship to prostate cancer risk and clinical outcome

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a complex disorder resulting from the combined effects of multiple environmental and genetic factors. Our previous single-locus analysis showed that VEGF and HSP70-hom polymorphisms were significantly associated with PCa susceptibility and prognosis. Both genes encoding these proteins were located on chromosome 6p21, and combining the neighboring single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) into haplotypes may increase the association with the disease. Three tagging polymorphisms, the HSP70-hom 2437 T/C, the VEGF-1154 G/A, and the VEGF-634 G/C SNPs were genotyped in 101 cases and 80 controls. For the combined analysis of VEGF and HSP70-hom, we found a positive gradient in the odds ratios (ORs) related to the number of high-risk genotypes with a 3.53-fold increase of prostate carcinoma risk (OR = 3.53; p = 0.015). Furthermore, the TAG and CAG haplotypes at positions HSP70-hom, VEGF -1154 and VEGF -634 exhibited a two-fold (OR = 0.46; p = 0.014) and a seven-fold (OR = 0.14; p = 0.00005) reduction in PCa risk, respectively. Regarding PCa prognosis, the TAG haplotype had a negative association with the aggressive phenotype as defined by the histopathological grade (OR = 0.28; p = 0.006). Our findings confirm the role of at-risk haplotype across the HSP70-hom/VEGF gene cluster in determining susceptibility to PCa.

The importance of -460 C/T and +405 G/C single nucleotide polymorphisms to the function of vascular endothelial growth factor A in colorectal cancer

PURPOSE

The present study investigated the functional influence of the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) -460 C/T and +405 G/C at vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), mRNA and protein levels in colorectal cancer (CRC) and normal colorectal tissue.

METHODS

Blood and tissue were collected from 113 patients surgically resected for colorectal cancer. SNPs were analysed from genomic DNA by PCR, the VEGF-A gene expression analysis was performed by RT-PCR and protein analysis by ELISA.

RESULTS

The T-allele in the -460 C/T SNP and the C-allele in the +405 G/C SNP were associated with significantly lower VEGF-A protein levels in normal colorectal tissue. There were no differences in protein levels in the malignant tissue according to genotypes. No differences were observed at the gene expression levels either.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that the two SNPs have a functional influence on the VEGF-A protein levels in normal colorectal tissue. The possible clinical implications of the findings need further investigation.

The VEGF -634G>C promoter polymorphism is associated with risk of gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Both TGF-beta1 and VEGF play a critic role in the multiple-step process of tumorgenesis of gastric cancer. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the TGFB1 and VEGF genes have been associated with risk and progression of many cancers. In this study, we investigated the association between potentially functional SNPs of these two genes and risk of gastric cancer in a US population.

METHODS

The risk associated with genotypes and haplotypes of four TGFB1 SNPs and four VEGF SNPs were determined by multivariate logistic regression analysis in 171 patients with gastric cancer and 353 cancer-free controls frequency-matched by age, sex and ethnicity.

RESULTS

Compared with the VEGF-634GG genotype, the -634CG genotype and the combined -634CG+CC genotypes were associated with a significantly elevated risk of gastric cancer (adjusted OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.24-2.86 and adjusted OR = 1.56, 95% CI = 1.07-2.27, respectively). However, none of other TGFB1 and VEGF SNPs was associated with risk of gastric cancer.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggested that the VEGF-634G>C SNP may be a marker for susceptibility to gastric cancer, and this finding needs to be validated in larger studies.

VEGF -460C>T polymorphism and cancer risk: a meta-analysis

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a major driver of physiological and pathological angiogenesis and plays important roles in the etiology and metastasis of cancers. The -460C>T polymorphism in VEGF gene region has been implicated in cancer risk and related to VEGF expression. However, published data remain conflicting. To derive a more precise estimation, a meta-analysis of 5,863 cases and 5,276 controls from 14 published case-control studies was performed. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated to assess the association. VEGF -460T represented a risk factor for cancers in Asians (OR=1.69, 95% CI: 1.09-2.62) but not in Europeans (OR=0.92, 95% CI: 0.78-1.08). Our meta-analysis showed the evidence that VEGF -460T was associated with increased cancer risk in Asians. Further prospective researches with larger numbers of worldwide participants are expected to validate this result.

Effect of vascular endothelial growth factor polymorphisms on survival in advanced-stage non-small-cell lung cancer

Polymorphisms have been identified in the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene that may affect VEGF production. We hypothesized that such polymorphisms may correlate with survival outcomes among advanced-stage non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. We evaluated the association between VEGF polymorphisms and overall survival among patients with advanced NSCLC who were treated with at least one cytotoxic regimen at Kyoto University Hospital between 2003 and 2008. We investigated the following VEGF polymorphisms: -460T > C (rs833061), +405G > C (rs2010963), +936C > T (rs3025039), -1154G > A (rs1570360), and -2578C > A (rs699947). Analyses of genotype associations with survival outcomes were performed using Cox proportional models, Kaplan-Meier methods, and the log-rank test. There were 126 patients and 80 deaths. On a Cox regression analysis of a current and former smoker (hazards ratio [HR], 1.422; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.111-1.859; P = 0.0046), poor performance status (PS) (HR, 2.524; 95% CI, 1.483-3.827; P = 0.0019), the VEGF -460CC genotype (HR, 1.719; 95% CI, 1.166-2.390; P = 0.0084), VEGF -1154AA and AG genotypes (HR, 1.482; 95% CI, 1.144-1.897; P = 0.0034), and VEGF -2578AA genotype (HR, 1.797; 95% CI, 1.219-2.495; P = 0.0047) had a significant prognostic effect on survival based on univariate analysis. Based on multivariate analysis of a current and former smoker (HR, 1.407; 95% CI, 1.095-1.840; P = 0.0070), poor PS (HR, 2.249; 95% CI, 1.309-3.468; P = 0.0058), and the VEGF -1154AA and AG genotypes (HR, 1.419; 95% CI, 1.033-1.901; P = 0.0316) were significant independent prognostic factors for survival. In this study, polymorphisms in VEGF may affect survival in advanced NSCLC.

The role of vascular endothelial growth factor SNPs as predictive and prognostic markers for major solid tumors

Angiogenesis is crucial for development and metastasis of tumors, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key mediator of this process. The importance of VEGF in tumorigenesis and tumor progression makes it an attractive target for the development of anticancer therapies. Inhibition of angiogenesis has shown promising clinical efficacy; however, not all patients treated with antiangiogenic agents derive benefit from them. Some patients are predisposed to refractory disease, whereas others develop resistance after initial response. Patients may also have different severity of drug-related adverse events. Optimization of drug administration based on disease status and individual responsiveness is important in limiting the treatment failure and minimization of side-effects. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in VEGF may alter VEGF protein concentrations, influence the process of angiogenesis, and may relate to interindividual variation in the risk and progression of selected tumors, and their resistance to treatments. This review examines the role of SNPs in the VEGF gene as predictive and prognostic markers for major solid tumors, including the breast, non-small cell lung, colorectal, and prostate cancers. Selected VEGF SNPs seem to be associated with risk of these cancers; however, there is lack of unanimity in findings, in part influenced by differences in study design and analysis.

Polymorphisms of TGFB1 and VEGF genes and survival of patients with gastric cancer

Background

Some TGFB1 and VEGF polymorphisms are believed to be functional. Given that these genes are involved in tumor growth and progression including angiogenesis, dissemination, and invasiveness, we hypothesized that these polymorphisms would be associated with survival in patients with gastric cancer.

Methods

We genotyped TGFB1 -509 C>T, +1869 T>C, and +915 G>C and VEGF -1498T>C, -634G>C, and +936C>T in 167 patients with gastric cancer. Using the Kaplan and Meier method, log-rank tests, and Cox proportional hazard models, we evaluated associations among TGFB1 and VEGF variants with overall, 1-year, and 2-year survival rates.

Results

Although there were no significant differences in overall survival rates among all polymorphisms tested, patients with TGFB1+915CG and CC genotypes had a poorer 2-year survival (adjusted hazard ratio (HR), 3.06; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.09–8.62; P = 0.034) than patients with the GG genotype had. In addition, patients heterozygous for VEGF -634CG also had a poorer 1-year survival (adjusted HR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.03–4.22; P = 0.042) than patients with the -634GG genotype.

Conclusion

Our study suggested that TGFB1+915CG/CC and VEGF -634CG genotypes may be associated with short-term survival in gastric cancer patients. However, larger studies are needed to verify these findings.

Association of the CTG (-2578/-460/+405) haplotype within the vascular endothelial growth factor gene with early-onset psoriasis

Polymorphism of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) influences the VEGF production and is subjected to genetic susceptibility of many diseases including psoriasis. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the promoter and exon 1 region [-2578(C/A), -460(C/T) and +405(C/G)] were analyzed in 154 patients with chronic plaque psoriasis and in 234 ethnically matched healthy controls from Thailand. The CTG (-2578/-460/+405) haplotype frequency was higher in patients with early-onset psoriasis (44.12%) compared with healthy controls (33.33%) (odds ratio = 1.54, 95% confidence interval = 1.08-2.18, P = 0.016, corrected P value: P(c) = 0.048). The results suggest that the CTG haplotype can be used as a genetic marker for psoriasis especially the early-onset group of Thais.

Vascular endothelial growth factor gene polymorphisms are associated with the risk of developing adenomyosis

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a major mediator of angiogenesis and vascular permeability, may play a key role in the development of adenomyosis. The aim of this study was to investigate whether these four VEGF polymorphisms (-2578C/A, -1154G/A, -460C/T, and +936C/T) were associated with the risk of adenomyosis development. Genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) assay in 174 adenomyosis patients and 199 frequency-matched control women. There were significant differences between patients and control group in allele frequencies and genotype distributions of the -2578C/A polymorphisms (P = 0.010 and 0.044, respectively). Compared with the C/C genotype, the A/A + C/A genotype could significantly modify the risk of developing adenomyosis [odds ratio (OR) = 0.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.42-0.97]. For the -1154G/A polymorphism, the allele frequencies and genotype distributions in patient group were significant different from those of the controls (P = 0.001 and 0.007, respectively). Compared with the G/G genotype, the A/A + G/A genotype could significantly decrease the risk of developing adenomyosis (OR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.33-0.80). However, the genotype distributions and allele frequencies of the -460C/T and +936C/T polymorphisms did not significantly differ between controls and patients (all P value > 0.05). The haplotype analysis suggested that the TGA (VEGF -460/-1154/-2578) and CGA haplotypes exhibited a significant decrease in the risk of developing adenomyosis compared with the haplotype of TGC (OR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.41-1.00; OR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.21-0.93, respectively). The study indicated that the -2578A or -1154A allele of VEGF gene could significantly decrease the risk of adenomyosis and might be potentially protective factors for adenomyosis development.

The positive correlation between gene expression of the two angiogenic factors: VEGF and BMP-2 in lung cancer patients

Lung cancer is a particular challenge in oncology. More than 1 million new cases occur worldwide every year and despite many clinical trials and modern diagnostic techniques, long-term survival rate has only marginally improved. The aim of the current research is to explore new molecular prognostic factors and identify new targets for anticancer therapy. Current evidence shows that angiogenesis is controlled by several angiogenic factors including VEGF and BMP-2. It has been also demonstrated that VEGF plays a key role in this process that is essential in carcinogenesis. Our study has shown that the expressions of the VEGF, BMP-2 and BMP-4 mRNAs were significantly higher (7.1-fold, 25.6-fold and 2.3-fold, respectively) in lung cancer samples than in adjacent normal lung tissues (real-time RT-PCR). Analysis based on the Pearson's correlation coefficient indicated the positive correlation between VEGF and BMP-2 gene expression, whereas no significant correlation between VEGF and BMP-4 gene expression was found. The mean+/-standard deviation serum level of VEGF was 423+/-136 pg/ml. Significant differences in the serum levels of VEGF between patients with T1 tumors and patients with T2, T3 or T4 tumors were observed. Patients with T2, T3 and T4 tumors, respectively, had 1.6-fold, 1.8-fold and 2.3-fold greater serum levels of VEGF than their peers with T1 tumors. In current study patients homozygous for the 936T allele of the +936C/T VEGF gene polymorphism had 12-fold lower VEGF gene expression and 1.3-fold lower VEGF serum level than patients homozygous for the 936C allele. In conclusion, our findings underline the importance of the two angiogenic factors namely VEGF and BMP-2 as well as +936C/T VEGF gene polymorphism in the evaluation of lung cancer patients.

Oxidative stress pathway genes and chronic renal insufficiency in Asian Indians with Type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

There are significant regional variations in prevalence of diabetes and diabetic chronic renal insufficiency (CRI) in India. Oxidative stress plays an important role in the development of diabetic complications. To determine the importance of the polymorphisms in the genes involved in maintenance of cellular redox balance, we performed a case control study in subjects from south and north India.

METHODS

Successive cases presenting to the study centers with Type 2 diabetes of >2 years duration and moderate CRI (n=194, south India 104, north India 90) diagnosed by serum creatinine >or=2 mg/dl after exclusion of nondiabetic causes of CRI were compared with diabetes subjects with no evidence of renal disease (n=224, south India 149, north India 75). Twenty-six polymorphisms from 13 genes from the oxidative stress pathway were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Genes included were superoxide dismutases (SOD1, 2, 3), uncoupling proteins (UCP1, 2), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS3), glutathione-S-transferases (GST) (M1, T1, P1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), paraoxonase (PON) 1 and 2, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate reduced, oxidase p22(phox). Genes were tested for their association with CRI using chi(2) test.

RESULTS

In south Indian (SI) subjects there was significant allelic and genotypic association of the wild-type allele in SOD2 (Ala9Val; P=.002 and P=.013, respectively), UCP1 (-112 T>G, P=.012 and P=.009; Ala64Thr, P=.015 and P=.004), NOS3 (Glu298Asp, P=.002 and P=.009) and GSTP1 (Ile105Val, P=.003 and P=.004) genes with development of CRI. None of these observations were replicated in the north Indian (NI) subjects. A genotypic but not allelic association was observed for two markers, VEGF (-460 T>C) and PON1 (Arg192Gly) among NI diabetic CRI subjects.

CONCLUSION

The nonreplication of association suggests differential genetic susceptibility of the two populations to diabetic chronic renal insufficiency. In the SI diabetic subjects, oxidative stress pathway genes might be an important predictor for the development of diabetic complications. Further, the association of wild-type alleles may suggest that they confer greater survival ability to comorbid complications and may be nephroprotective.

Novel single nucleotide polymorphism of the VEGF gene as a risk predictor for gastroduodenal ulcers

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The gastroduodenal ulcer (GDU) mostly develops on the lesser curvature side of stomach and the anterior wall of duodenal bulb, irrespective of the etiologies including Helicobacter pylori infection, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, alcohol, etc. However, a clear explanation as to why ulcers are prevalent in these areas has still not been given. The current study was designed to evaluate whether the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) polymorphism could predict susceptibility to GDU through deranged angiogenic activities.

METHODS

A large scale case-control study based on known single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of VEGF and another case control study based on the novel SNP of VEGF was performed through the SNP-IT assay using the SNP stream 25 k system. A site-directed mutagenesis and functional assay was executed to document the biological effect of a novel VEGF SNP on angiogenesis.

RESULTS

Even though the case-control study between non-ulcer dyspepsia (NUD) and gastric ulcer (GU) patients was done in 10 SNP of the VEGF gene including -2488C/T, -634G/C, -7C/T, 3436G/C, 6112C/A, 6894C/T, 9374G/A, 9812C/T, 13128C/T, and 13553C/T, the analysis showed no statistically significant association between NUD and GU. Denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography analysis could identify two novel SNP of the VEGF gene, -1780T/C and IVS-99 G/C, among which -1780T/C showed a very strong association between NUD and GDU, presenting with OR=2.93 on codominant analysis (P<0.001), OR=8.62 on dominant analysis (P<0.001), and OR=3.21 on recessive analysis (P<0.001). The promoter assay using a site-directed mutagenesis and in vitro angiogenesis assay showed repressed transcription of the VEGF gene in gastric epithelial cells and defective tube formation in endothelial cells, both transfected with a plasmid containing -1780C/C mutant of VEGF gene.

CONCLUSION

The novel VEGF polymorphism -1780T/C could significantly predict the predisposition to GDU after the exposure to etiologic risks, based on defective angiogenic activity.

Vascular endothelial growth factor polymorphisms -1154 G/A and -460 C/T are not associated with VEGF mRNA expression and susceptibility to sporadic colon cancer

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is important mediator of angiogenesis, and its expression in colorectal tumors is related to tumor progression. VEGF expression has been detected in normal mucosa, primary colon cancers, and metastatic tumors, and patients with low VEGF expression have a better survival rate. In addition, anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody improves overall survival when used in combination with existing metastatic colorectal cancer therapy. Therefore, prediction of VEGF production based on individual genetic background might be important for predicting the course of the disease and the efficacy of anticancer treatment. The number of studies evaluating the influence of VEGF polymorphisms on cancer susceptibility is growing; however, their results are often conflicting. In addition, these studies are rarely accompanied with the expression analysis examining the influence of these polymorphisms on mRNA expression in tumor tissue. In this study, we have examined the influence of VEGF polymorphisms -1154 G/A and -460 C/T on VEGF mRNA expression and susceptibility to sporadic colon cancer by real-time PCR-SNP and mRNA expression analysis. The study included population control group consisting of 160 unrelated volunteers and a group of 160 patients with sporadic colon cancer. According to our results, -1154 G/A and -460 C/T do not influence VEGF mRNA expression in colorectal tumors and susceptibility to sporadic colon cancer, although the role of other polymorphisms cannot be excluded.