Interleukin gene polymorphisms and breast cancer: a case control study and systematic literature review

Analysis of Interleukin-6 Gene Variants (rs1800795, rs1800796, rs1554606, rs1800797, rs2069840, rs12700386, and rs2069861) as Prognostic Markers in Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Network Analysis

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) has obviously tumor-promoting and tumor-inhibitory effects and can induce an epithelial-mesenchymal transition phenotype in human breast cancer (BC) cells and implicate its potential to promote BC metastasis. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the association of IL-6 variants (rs1800795, rs1800796, rs1554606, rs1800797, rs2069840, rs12700386, and rs2069861) with the susceptibility to BC. The databases of PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library were searched until December 19, 2022, without any restrictions. The quality assessment of each study was performed based on the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale tool. The Review Manager 5.3 software presented the effect sizes including odds ratio (OR) along with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Both publication bias and sensitivity analyses were carried out by the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis version 2.0 software. A total of 2,508 records were identified among databases and at last, 27 articles were entered into the meta-analysis. Seven polymorphisms of IL-6 were entered into the analyses. Just rs1800797 polymorphism in the dominant model (OR = 1.51; 95% CI = 1.15-2.00; P = 0.003) and rs2069840 polymorphism in heterozygous (OR = 0.89; 95% CI = 0.81-0.97; P = 0.008) and dominant (OR = 0.91; 95% CI = 0.84-0.99; P = 0.02) models had a significant association with the BC risk. In conclusion, among 7 polymorphisms and despite a few included cases, the present meta-analysis recommended that the AA+GA genotype of rs1800797 polymorphism had a significantly elevated risk and the GC and the CC+GC genotypes of rs2069840 polymorphism had a protective role in the BC patients.

Differential gene expression analysis using RNA-seq in the blood of goats exposed to transportation stress

Transportation stress causes significant changes in physiological responses in goats; however, studies exploring the transcriptome of stress are very limited. The objective of this study was to determine the differential gene expressions and related pathways in the blood samples using RNA-seq procedure in Spanish goats subjected to different durations of transportation stress. Fifty-four male Spanish goats (8-mo old; BW = 29.7 ± 2.03 kg) were randomly subjected to one of three treatments (TRT; n = 18 goats/treatment): (1) transported for 180 min, (2) transported for 30 min, or (3) held in pens (control). Blood samples were collected before and after treatment for stress hormone, metabolite, and transcriptomic analysis. RNA-seq technology was used to obtain the transcriptome profiles of blood. Analysis of physiological data using SAS showed that plasma cortisol concentrations were higher (P < 0.01) in 180 min and 30 min groups compared to the control group. Enrichment analysis of DEGs related to transportation stress through Gene Ontology and KEGG databases revealed that the differentially expressed genes related to inflammatory pathways, caspases, and apoptosis such as IL1R2, CASP14, CD14, TLR4, and MAPK14 were highly enriched in the transported group of goats compared to non-transported goats. Stress in goats leads to a sequence of events at cellular and molecular levels that causes inflammation and apoptosis.

Association of Interleukin-10 Polymorphism (rs1800896, rs1800871, and rs1800872) With Breast Cancer Risk: An Updated Meta-Analysis Based on Different Ethnic Groups

Background: The interleukin10 (IL-10) gene polymorphisms have been indicated to be associated with breast cancer (BC) risk, but the findings are still controversial. To derive a more precise evaluation, we performed a comprehensive meta-analysis.

Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, CNKI, China biomedical (CBM), and Google Scholar to 29 March 2020. Revman5.3 and Stata 12.0 software analyzed the data, and the strength of the association was identified using the odds ratio (OR) and the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results: A total of 23 studies (7,250 cancer cases and 7,675 case-free controls) were included in this meta-analysis. The results show that IL-10 gene polymorphisms were significantly correlated with BC risk based on subgroup analysis by ethnicity. The IL-10 rs1800896 polymorphism was significantly associated with the risk of BC in Asians (G vs. A: OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.65–0.95, p = 0.01; GG vs. AA: OR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.31–0.84, p = 0.007; GA vs. AA: OR = 0.6, 95% CI = 0.44–0.81, p = 0.0009; GG + GA vs. AA: OR = 0.6, 95% CI = 0.45–0.81, p = 0.0007); Moreover, an increased BC risk in Asians were also associated with the IL-10 rs1800872 polymorphism (AA vs CC: OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.55–0.99, p = 0.04; A vs C: OR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.74–0.98, p = 0.03). In addition, The IL-10 rs1800871 (CT vs. TT: OR = 1.8, 95% CI = 1.03–3.13, p = 0.04) and rs1800872 polymorphism (A vs C: OR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.43–0.98, p = 0.04) were associated with BC risk in Caucasians.

Conclusion: Collectively, this meta-analysis demonstrated that IL-10 rs1800896 and rs1800872 (AA vs. CC; A vs. C) polymorphisms significantly increased the risk of BC in Asians, while the rs1800871 and rs1800872 (A vs. C) were associated with the risk of BC in Caucasians. Therefore, this may provide new ideas for predicting and diagnosing BC susceptibility through the detection of IL-10 gene polymorphism.

Systematic Review Registration: [https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/ PROSPERO], identifier [CRD42021266635].

The association between interleukin-1β gene polymorphisms and the risk of breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

It is reported that there is a close association between interleukin-1β (IL-1β) gene polymorphisms and breast cancer risk. However, the results remain controversial.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Eligible published articles were searched in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases up to June 2018. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were used to identify potential links between IL-1β genetic polymorphisms and the risk of breast cancer.

RESULTS

From our results, we found that three common polymorphisms in IL-1β (rs16944, rs1143634, rs1143627) had no significant associations with breast cancer risk in all genetic models. Based on the analysis from ethnic subgroups, there was a higher risk of breast cancer for rs16944 polymorphism in the recessive model and heterozygous model among Asians (TT vs. CC+CT: 1.229, 95% CI: 1.063-1.422, p = 0.005; TT vs. CT: 1.211, 95% CI: 1.057-1.388, p = 0.006). For the rs1143627 polymorphism, a significantly decreased breast cancer risk was observed in the dominant model only in Asians (CT+TT vs. CC: OR = 0.944, 95% CI: 0.897-0.994, p = 0.027). After stratifying patients according to the menopausal state, we found that polymorphism of rs1143627 correlated with reduced breast cancer risk among post-menopausal women in three genotype models: allele, recessive model and homozygous model (T vs C: 0.859, 95% CI: 0.753-0.98, p = 0.024; TT vs. CC+CT: 0.727, 95% CI: 0.576-0.918, p = 0.007; TT vs. CC: 0.743, 95% CI: 0.626-0.882, p = 0.001). As for other analyses with reference to source of controls and genotyping methods, no significant association between IL-1β polymorphism and breast cancer risk was demonstrated.

CONCLUSIONS

The rs16944 and rs1143627 polymorphisms are significantly associated with the risk of breast cancer only in Asian people and in post-menopausal women respectively.

Role of IL-1β rs1143634 (+3954C>T) polymorphism in cancer risk: an updated meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

OBJECTIVE

Oxidative stress caused by the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-1β has been widely investigated for cancer risk. In this study, we focused on the role of IL-1β rs1143634 polymorphism to reveal its impact on cancer development.

METHODS

Related studies with fixed inclusion criteria were selected from electronic databases to May 2021. This meta-analysis was performed with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Heterogeneity, publication bias and sensitivity analyses were also conducted. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) and in-silico gene expression analysis were performed.

RESULTS

Forty-four case-control studies involving 18,645 patients with cancer and 22,882 controls were included. We observed a significant association of this single nucleotide polymorphism with overall cancer risk in the codominant model 3 (1.13-fold), recessive model (1.14-fold) and allelic model (1.08-fold). Subgroup analysis revealed that rs1143634 elevated the risk of gastric cancer, breast cancer and multiple myeloma. In addition, Asian and mixed populations and hospital-based controls had a significantly higher risk of cancer development. TSA confirmed our findings.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis revealed that the presence of IL-1β rs1143634 polymorphism increases the risk of cancer development. Among polymorphism carriers, the Asian population has a higher risk than other ethnic populations.This meta-analysis was registered retrospectively at INPLASY (https://inplasy.com/, INPLASY2021100044).

The IL6-like Cytokine Family: Role and Biomarker Potential in Breast Cancer

IL6-like cytokines are a family of regulators with a complex, pleiotropic role in both the healthy organism, where they regulate immunity and homeostasis, and in different diseases, including cancer. Here we summarise how these cytokines exert their effect through the shared signal transducer IL6ST (gp130) and we review the extensive evidence on the role that different members of this family play in breast cancer. Additionally, we discuss how the different cytokines, their related receptors and downstream effectors, as well as specific polymorphisms in these molecules, can serve as predictive or prognostic biomarkers with the potential for clinical application in breast cancer. Lastly, we also discuss how our increasing understanding of this complex signalling axis presents promising opportunities for the development or repurposing of therapeutic strategies against cancer and, specifically, breast neoplasms.

Quantitative Assessment of the Effects of IL-1ß -511 C>T Variant on Breast Cancer Risk: An Updated Meta-Analysis of 3331 Cases and 3609 Controls

OBJECTIVE

Growing evidence suggests that IL-1β -511C>T, as a functional variant, affects the risk of developing breast cancer (BC); however, the results have not been conclusive. This meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the link between this variant and BC risk.

METHODS

We retrieved available publications on IL-1β -511C>T polymorphism by conducting a comprehensive literature search on the Web of Science, MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, and Google scholar databases (last search on February 25, 2020).

RESULTS

The overall analysis indicates that IL-1β -511C>T polymorphism conferred an increased risk of BC under a recessive TT vs CT+CC model by 1.14-fold and showed protection against BC under an overdominant CT vs TT+CC genetic contrast model (odds ratio = 0.84). Stratified analysis based on ethnicity revealed the protective effect of this single-nucleotide polymorphism against BC risk in Caucasian patients.

CONCLUSION

Our data results provide a proof of concept for the association of IL-1β -511C>T with BC risk. Larger, well-designed population-based studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Statistical meta-analysis to investigate the association between the Interleukin-6 (IL-6) gene polymorphisms and cancer risk

A good number of genome-wide association studies (GWAS), including meta-analyses, reported that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the IL-6 gene are significantly associated with various types of cancer risks, though some other studies reported insignificant association with cancers, in the literature. These contradictory results may be due to variations in sample sizes and/or deficiency of statistical modeling. Therefore, an attempt is made to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the association between the IL-6 gene SNPs (rs1800795, rs1800796, rs1800797) and different cancer risks, giving the weight on a large sample size, including different cancer types and appropriate statistical modeling with the meta-dataset. In order to attain a more reliable consensus decision about the association between the IL-6 gene polymorphisms and different cancer risks, in this study, we performed a multi-case statistical meta-analysis based on the collected information of 118 GWAS studies comprising of 50053 cases and 65204 control samples. Results from this Meta-analysis indicated a significant association (p-value < 0.05) of the IL-6 gene rs1800796 polymorphism with an overall increased cancer risk. The subgroup analysis data based on cancer types exhibited significant association (p-value < 0.05) of the rs1800795 polymorphism with an overall increased risk of cervical, liver and prostate cancers; the rs1800796 polymorphism with lung, prostate and stomach cancers; and the rs1800797 polymorphism with cervical cancer. The subgroup analysis of ethnicity data showed a significant association (p-value < 0.05) of an overall cancer risk with the rs1800795 polymorphism for the African and Asian populations, the rs1800796 polymorphism for the Asian only and the rs1800797 polymorphism in the African population. Comparative discussion showed that our multi-case meta-analyses received more support than any previously reported individual meta-analysis about the association between the IL-6 gene polymorphisms and cancer risks. Results from this study, more confidently showed that the IL-6 gene SNPs (rs1800795, rs1800796 and rs1800797) in humans are associated with increased cancer risks. Therefore, these three polymorphisms of the IL-6 gene have the potential to be evaluated as a population based rapid, low-cost PCR prognostic biomarkers for different types of cancers diagnosis and research.

Association of interleukin 10 rs1800896 polymorphism with susceptibility to breast cancer: a meta-analysis

Objective

To evaluate the correlation between interleukin 10 (IL-10) −1082A/G polymorphism (rs1800896) and breast cancers by performing a meta-analysis.

Methods

The Embase and Medline databases were searched through 1 September 2018 to identify qualified articles. Odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were applied to evaluate associations.

Results

In total, 14 case-control studies, including 5320 cases and 5727 controls, were analyzed. We detected significant associations between the IL10 −1082 G/G genotype and risk of breast cancer (AA + AG vs. GG: OR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.80–0.97). Subgroup analyses confirmed a significant association in Caucasian populations (OR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.80–0.99), in population-based case-control studies (OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.78–0.96), and in studies with ≥500 subjects (OR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.79–0.99) under the recessive model (AA + AG vs. GG). No associations were found in Asian populations.

Conclusions

The IL10 −1082A/G polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. The association between IL10 −1082 G/G genotype and increased risk of breast cancer is more significant in Caucasians, in population-based studies, and in larger studies.

Interleukins in Thyroid Cancer: From Basic Researches to Applications in Clinical Practice

Inflammation is crucial to tumorigenesis and progression of many cancers. Inflammatory molecules in tumor microenvironment exert pro- or anti-tumor effects. Among them, interleukin, mainly produced by CD3+ and CD4+ T lymphocytes, is a class of small molecule proteins which play an important role in intercellular communication. Numerous studies have confirmed that interleukins are closely related to thyroid cancer. Interleukins regulate the proliferation and migration of thyroid cancer cells and they have prospects in discriminating benign and malignant thyroid diseases, predicting the risk of tumorigenesis, evaluating the prognosis and monitoring the recurrence of thyroid cancer. Besides, the effective application of interleukins in treatment of thyroid cancer has been confirmed by some cell and animal researches. The present review will introduce the potential mechanisms of interleukins in thyroid cancer and focus on the applications of interleukins in clinical practice of thyroid cancer, which will help update understanding of the progress of interleukins researches in thyroid cancer.

Association of angiogenesis and inflammation-related gene functional polymorphisms with early-stage breast cancer prognosis

Genetic variations in inflammation- and angiogenesis-related genes may alter the coded protein level and impact the pathogenesis of breast cancer (BC). The present study investigated the association of functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the VEGFA, IL-1β, IL-1α and IL-6 genes with the early-stage BC phenotype and survival. Genomic DNA and clinical data were collected for 202 adult Eastern European (Lithuanian) women with primary I-II stage BC. Genotyping of the SNPs was performed using TaqMan SNP genotyping assays. Nine VEGFA, IL-1β, IL-1α and IL-6 polymorphisms were analysed. The VEGFA and IL-6 haplotypes were inferred using Phase software. Patients were prospectively followed-up for recurrence, occurrence of metastasis and mortality until April 30, 2019. All studied genotypes were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and had the same distribution as the 1,000 Genomes project Phase 3 dataset for European population. Significant associations of the studied SNPs with clinicopathologic variables were observed between IL-1α rs1800587 C allele and larger primary tumour size; IL-6 rs1800797 A allele, rs1800797 GA genotype, rs1800795 C allele, IL-6 (rs1800797-re1800795) AC diplotype and hormonal receptor-positive disease; IL-6 rs1800797 A allele and HER2 negative status. In univariate Cox survival analysis, IL-1α rs1800587 CC and IL-6 rs1800797 GG genotype carriers exhibited worse disease-free survival (DFS), metastasis-free survival (MFS) and overall survival (OS). The IL-6 rs1800795 GG genotype was associated with worse OS. IL-6 (rs1800797, rs1800795) GG/GG diplotype carriers had shorter MFS and OS. Multivariate Cox survival analysis revealed that the IL-1α rs1800587 CC genotype was an independent negative prognostic factor for DFS, MFS and OS, and the IL6 GG/GG diplotype was an independent negative prognostic factor for MFS and OS. According to the present study, functional SNPs in the IL-1α and IL-6 genes may contribute to the identification of patients at higher risk of BC recurrence, development of metastases and worse OS among early-stage patients with BC.

Genetic polymorphisms of IL1RN were associated with lumbar disk herniation risk in a Chinese Han population

Background

Interleukin (IL)‐1 is a cytokine superfamily, which involved in the inflammatory process and immune response in human body. IL‐1 receptor antagonist (IL1RN) has been found to be associated with risk of lumbar disk herniation (LDH) in Finland samples. However, to date, there was no investigation focus on the polymorphisms of IL1RN in Chinese Han LDH patient.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a case–control study based on 498 LDH patients and 463 controls. Five single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IL1RN were genotyped.

Results

As a result, we found that the AG and GG genotypes of rs3181052 were associated with decreased risk LDH under the dominant model (OR = 0.74, 95%CI: 0.57–0.96, p = .025). In the stratification analysis, the frequency of the “A” allele of rs17042888 was significantly lower in elder LDH cases than in controls (OR = 0.723, 95%CI: 0.544–0.961, p = .025). In addition, the AG and AA genotypes of rs17042888 were associated with decreased risk of LDH in elder group under the dominant model (OR = 0.69, 95%CI: 0.49–0.98, p = .038). The GG genotype of rs315919 was identified have correlation with decreased risk of LDH in elder group under the recessive model (OR = 0.60, 95%CI: 0.37–0.97, p = .034).

Conclusions

Our data showed that IL1RN may be a susceptibility gene for risk of LDH in Chinese Han population.

Genetic Polymorphism in TNF-α-308 G/A and TNF-β +252 A/G, as Prognostic Biomarker in Breast Cancer Patients among Indian Population

BACKGROUND

Cytokines are the key regulator molecules that modulate immune response. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF- α-308 G/A and TNF-β +252 A/G ) are inflammatory cytokine that control the progression of several types of cancer. They play a vital role in both tumor progression and destruction based on their concentrations. The role of TNF-α-308 G/A and TNF-β +252 A/G gene polymorphism in the etiology of breast cancer (BC) is not clearly understood. Therefore, present study investigates the association of TNF-α -308 G/A and TNF-β +252 A/G and the clinical features with Breast cancer patients.

METHODS

In a case- control study, we have investigated 150 breast cancer patients and 300 age and ethnically matched healthy controls for duration of 3 years from North India. Promoter polymorphisms of tumor necrosis factor gene (TNF-α -308 G/A and TNF-β +252 A/G) were genotyped using allele specific oligonucleotide polymerase chain reaction ASO and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). The associations were evaluated by calculating the pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) using SPSS.

RESULTS

Patients with different clinico-pathological variables and healthy controls were analyzed. Significant association was observed in A allele of TNF-α -308 G/A in breast cancer patients as compared to healthy controls (p<0.0001). However, no association was seen in TNF-β +252 A/G both at genotypic and allelic level. The GG genotype of TNF-β +252A/G is higher in grades III (p<0.01) patients.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that TNF-α-308G/A polymorphism showed significant association with breast cancer patients.

Transcriptomic Analysis Provides Novel Insights into Heat Stress Responses in Sheep

Simple Summary

The general increase in global temperatures has meant that heat stress has become an increasingly significant problem for sheep. This has both direct and indirect impact on their physiological functions, productivity, and health of sheep. Sheep generally live in high-temperature environments; however, the genes and pathways that play regulatory roles in the heat stress responses of sheep remain unclear. In this study, we applied RNA-Seq technology to analyze liver tissues of sheep from heat-stressed and control groups, and screened genes and pathways related to sheep heat stress. This work provides a theoretical foundation for the breeding and production of heat-resistant sheep.

Abstract

With the intensified and large-scale development of sheep husbandry and global warming, sheep heat stress has become an increasingly important issue. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms related to sheep responses to heat stress. In this study, transcriptomic analysis of liver tissues of sheep in the presence and absence of heat stress was conducted, with the goal of identifying genes and pathways related to regulation when under such stress. After a comparison with the sheep reference genome, 440,226,436 clean reads were obtained from eight libraries. A p-value ≤ 0.05 and fold change ≥ 2 were taken as thresholds for categorizing differentially expressed genes, of which 1137 were identified. The accuracy and reliability of the RNA-Seq results were confirmed by qRT-PCR. The identified differentially expressed genes were significantly associated with 419 GO terms and 51 KEGG pathways, which suggested their participation in biological processes such as response to stress, immunoreaction, and fat metabolism. This study’s results provide a comprehensive overview of sheep heat stress-induced transcriptional expression patterns, laying a foundation for further analysis of the molecular mechanisms of sheep heat stress.

Genetic Association between Interleukin-4 Receptor Polymorphisms and Cancer Susceptibility: A Meta-Analysis Based on 53 Case-Control Studies

Polymorphisms in interleukin-4 receptor (IL-4R) gene have been reported susceptible to a variety of cancer types, nevertheless, data from these publications remained inconsistent and controversial. We further performed a comprehensive meta-analysis to present a precise estimation of its relationship. Extensive retrieve was performed in PubMed, Google Scholar and Web of Science up to May 25, 2018. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were conducted to evaluate the overall strength of the associations in five genetic models, as well as in subgroup analyses, stratified by ethnicity, cancer type or source of control. Q-test, Egger's test and Begg's funnel plot were applied to evaluate the heterogeneity and publication bias. In-silico analysis was managed to demonstrate the relationship of IL-4R expression correlated with cancer tissues. Finally, 31 publications including 53 case-control studies were enrolled, with 24,452 cases and 24,971 controls. After a comprehensive analysis, no significant evidence was revealed for the association between four IL-4R polymorphisms (rs1801275, rs1805010, rs1805015, rs2057768) and cancer susceptibility in the overall population, as well as the subgroup analysis stratified by ethnicity, cancer type, the genotyping method or the source of control. To sum up, no evidence was identified between IL-4R polymorphisms and overall cancer susceptibility. Further well-designed studies with large sample sizes will be continued on this issue of interest.

Interleukins Associated with Breast Cancer

A tumor consists of a group of cells with abnormal growth, capable of acquiring unique characteristics that provide them with the ability to display mercurial migration patterns, adapting to microenvironments and their chemical and physical factors. Interleukins are small proteins secreted mainly by CD3+ and CD4+ T lymphocytes that mediate the "essential for cancer progression" interactions between cells. Interleukins are implicated in both the development and differentiation of different cells (NK, B, and T leukocytes) and, in general, play a major role in many diseases, including breast cancer, due to their unique participation in systemic inflammation and immune system modulation. During the past decade, interleukins proved to be decisive for future immunotherapy, predisposing a more reliable treatment with fewer side effects on normal proliferating cells. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the role of interleukins implicated in breast cancer progression.

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha-308 gene promoter polymorphism associates with survival of cancer patients: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is involved in cancer pathogenesis, and TNF-α-308G>A, a single-nucleotide polymorphism, is associated with cancer prognosis; however, different studies have reported inconsistent results. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the correlation between TNF-α-308G>A polymorphism and the survival of cancer patients.

METHODS

PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Wanfang database, VIP database, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure database were used to obtain articles on association between TNF-α-308G>A polymorphism and cancer survival, published until April 2018. A meta-analysis was carried out using Stata 12.0 software to determine the pooled hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Furthermore, publication bias was assessed, and sensitivity analysis was performed to validate the analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 13 retrospective cohort studies including 2559 cancer patients were reviewed to estimate the association between TNF-α-308G>A polymorphism and overall survival (OS) of cancer patients. The pooled results suggested that within TNF-α-308G>A polymorphism, genotypes GA+AA/GG (HR = 1.39, 95% CI: 0.90-2.14, P < .001, I = 78.1%), GA/GG (HR = 1.06, 95% CI: 0.83-1.36, P = .072, I = 53.5%), and AA/AG+GG (HR = 3.28, 95% CI: 0.92-11.72, P = .001, I = 85.9%) were not associated with the OS of cancer patients. However, interestingly, the HR was greater for patients with the AA genotype than for those with the GG genotype, suggesting an association between TNF-α-308G>A polymorphism and OS among cancer patients (AA/GG, HR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.36-3.43, P = .281, I = 21.5%).

CONCLUSION

TNF-α-308G>A polymorphism affects the OS of cancer patients and is a potential therapeutic target for cancer.

Associations of interleukin-6 gene polymorphisms with cancer risk: Evidence based on 49,408 cancer cases and 61,790 controls

Many molecular epidemiologic studies have shown that interleukin-6 (IL-6) polymorphisms are significantly associated with susceptibility for various cancers. However, the conclusions of these studies are inconsistent. The purpose of the present study was to explore the association between three common IL-6 loci (rs1800795, rs1800796, and rs1800797) and the risk for various cancers. We systematically searched the PubMed, Web of Science, Wanfang and China national knowledge infrastructure (CNKI) databases for relevant publications and obtained 108 eligible studies, involving 49,408 cancer patients and 61,790 cancer-free controls. Odds ratio (OR), 95% confidence interval (CI), and false positive reporting probability (FPRP) were used to evaluate cancer risk. All statistical analyses were performed using the R software meta package. We observed a non-significant association between rs1800795 and overall cancer risk, while rs1800797 was found to have a false positive association with overall risk of cancer. Subgroup analyses of rs1800797 also suggested non-significant association and rs1800795 played a protective role in liver cancer. Rs1800796 was found to be associated with overall cancer risk, particularly in Asian patients and those with prostate cancer. These findings provide evidence that IL-6 polymorphisms may affect cancer risk.

Genetic polymorphisms of IL-6 promoter in cancer susceptibility and prognosis: a meta-analysis

IL-6 is critical for tumorigenesis. However, previous studies on the association of IL-6 promoter polymorphisms with predisposition to different cancer types are somewhat contradictory. Therefore, we performed this meta-analysis regarding the relationship between IL-6 promoter single nucleotide polymorphisms and cancer susceptibility and prognosis. Up to April 2017, 97 original publications were identified covering three IL-6 promoter SNPs. Our results showed statistically significant association between IL-6 promoter and cancer risk and prognosis. Subgroup analysis indicated that rs1800795 was significantly associated with increased risk of cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, glioma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Hodgkin’s lymphoma but not gastric cancer and multiple myeloma. Furthermore, rs1800796 was significantly associated with increased risk of lung cancer, prostate cancer and colorectal cancer but not gastric cancer. Additionally, rs1800797 was significantly association with breast cancer, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, B-cell lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma but not gastric cancer. Simultaneously, rs1800795 and rs1800796 were associated with a significantly higher risk of cancer in Asia and Caucasian, rs1800797 was associated with a significantly risk of cancer in Caucasian but not in Asia. Furthermore, IL-6 promoter polymorphisms were significantly associated with the prognosis of cancer. Considering these promising results, IL-6 promoter including rs1800795, rs1800796 and rs1800797 may be a tumor marker for cancer therapy.

Interleukin gene polymorphisms in Chinese Han population with breast cancer, a case-control study

Cytokines are known as important regulators of the cancer involved in inflammatory and immunological responses. This fact and plethora of gene polymorphism data prompted us to investigate IL1 gene polymorphisms in breast cancer (BC) patients. Totally, 530 patients with BC and 628 healthy control women were studied. The genetic polymorphisms for IL1 were analyzed by Massarray Sequencing method. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified in IL1B, IL1R1 gene are thought to influence breast cancer risk. The results of the association between IL-1B, IL1R1 polymorphisms and breast cancer risk have significant. We found that the variant TT genotype of rs10490571 was associated with a significantly increased breast cancer risk (TT vs. CC: OR = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.12–7.08, P = 0.047 for the codominant model). For rs16944 (AG vs. GG: OR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.41–0.90, P = 0.034 for the codominant model) and rs1143623 (CG vs. CC: OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.45–0.94, P = 0.023 for the codominant model) have significant associations were found in genetic models. In conclusion, the present analysis suggests a correlation of polymorphic markers within the IL-1 gene locus with the risk in developing breast cancer. Taken together with our finding that IL1B, IL1R1 gene three SNP are also associated with the risk for the disease, we suggest that inflammation via innate and adaptive immunity contributes to multifactorial hereditary predisposition to pathogenesis of the breast cancer.

Inflammatory breast cancer: High incidence of GCC haplotypes (−1082A/G, −819T/C, and −592A/C) in the interleukin-10 gene promoter correlates with over-expression of interleukin-10 in patients’ carcinoma tissues

Interleukin-10 is involved in carcinogenesis by supporting tumor escape from the immune response. The aim of this study was to assess the single nucleotide polymorphisms, −1082A/G, −819T/C and −592A/C, in interleukin-10 gene promoter in inflammatory breast cancer compared to non–inflammatory breast cancer and association of these polymorphisms with interleukin-10 gene expression. We enrolled 105 breast cancer tissue (72 non–inflammatory breast cancer and 33 inflammatory breast cancer) patients and we determined the three studied single nucleotide polymorphisms in all samples by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism and investigated their association with the disease and with various prognostic factors. In addition, we assessed the expression of interleukin-10 gene by real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and the correlation between studied single nucleotide polymorphisms and interleukin-10 messenger RNA expression. We found co-dominant effect as the best inheritance model (in the three studied single nucleotide polymorphisms in non–inflammatory breast cancer and inflammatory breast cancer samples), and we didn’t identify any association between single nucleotide polymorphisms genotypes and breast cancer prognostic factors. However, GCC haplotype was found highly associated with inflammatory breast cancer risk (p < 0.001, odds ratio = 43.05). Moreover, the expression of interleukin-10 messenger RNA was significantly higher (p < 0.001) by 5.28-fold and 8.95-fold than non–inflammatory breast cancer and healthy control, respectively, where GCC haplotype significantly increased interleukin-10 gene expression (r = 0.9, p < 0.001).

Associations between three polymorphisms in the interleukin-4 receptor gene and risk of cancer: a meta-analysis

Interleukin-4 receptor (IL-4R) gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are implicated in cancer development. However, results from the published reports have remained inconclusive. The objective of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis investigating the association between polymorphisms in IL-4R gene and cancer risk. Pubmed, EMBASE and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) were searched for case- control studies published up to October 30, 2012 that investigated IL-4R polymorphisms and cancer risk. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to evaluate the strength of any associations. Three IL-4R polymorphisms (Q576R, rs1801275; I75V, rs1805010; S503P, rs1805015) in 21 case-control studies were analyzed. Our meta-analysis indicated that these three polymorphisms are not associated with cancer risk when all studies were pooled together. In the subgroup analysis by tumor site, the results showed that Q576R G allele carriers were associated with a significantly decreased cervical cancer risk (recessive model: OR = 0.77, 95%CI = 0.60-0.98; homozygote comparison: OR = 0.76, 95%CI = 0.58-0.98). I75V G allele carriers were associated with a decreased risk of renal cancer (dominant model = 0.71, 95%CI = 0.57-0.89, heterozygote comparison: OR = 0.69, 95%CI = 0.55-0.87). When stratified by ethnicity, Q576R G allele carriers were associated with a decreased cancer risk in Caucasians (dominant model: OR = 0.90, 95%CI = 0.83-0.98; heterozygote comparison: OR = 0.89, 95%CI = 0.82-0.98). I75V G allele carriers were associated with a decreased cancer risk in Asians (heterozygote comparison: OR = 0.76, 95%CI = 0.62-0.94). S503P C allele carriers were also associated with a decreased cancer risk in Asians (CC VS TT: OR = 0.29, 95%CI = 0.08-0.99). Our results suggest that Q576R, I75V and S503P may be associated with a decreased cancer risk for certain types of cancers and in some specific ethnic groups. Future case-control studies with large sample size are needed to evaluate these associations in detail.

A Common SNP of IL-10 (-1082A/G) is Associated With Increased Risk of Premenopausal Breast Cancer in South Indian Women

BACKGROUND

Evading the immune destruction and angiogenesis has been the two hallmarks of cancer. Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is a cytokine with immune suppressing (pro-tumorigenic) and anti-angiogenic (anti-tumorigenic) properties, thus making the role of IL-10 in tumorigenesis enigmatic. Previous studies have suggested a critical role of IL10 altered expression in complex process of tumor-microenvironment, co-evolution and tumorigenesis.

OBJECTIVES

Evaluating the role of IL10 (-1082A/G) gene promoter polymorphism in breast cancer patients from South India.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A case-control study was conducted with a total of 285 individuals, these include 125 histologically confirmed breast cancer patients and 160 age and sex matched controls. Genotypes were determined by allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (AS-PCR), followed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Statistical analysis was done to test the significance of results obtained.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis revealed that AA genotype of the Il-10 -1082A/G polymorphism is significantly associated with breast cancer (AA vs. AG: χ(2) = 14.46, P = 0.0001432, OR = 2.854, 95% CI = 1.68 - 4.849). Up on stratifying subjects based on cancer stage, age at onset, menopausal status, AA genotype has associated with all the sub groups, except for post-menopausal women. There was no significant association which was observed with respected to hormonal status (ER, PR) and Her2/neu status.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study suggests that IL-10 AA genotype as a risk factor in the etiology of breast cancer in the South Indian population.

The prognostic value of IL10 and TNF alpha functional polymorphisms in premenopausal early-stage breast cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Interleukin-10 and tumor necrosis factor α play an important role in breast carcinogenesis. Genes, encoding those two cytokines, contain single nucleotide polymorphisms, which are associated with differential levels of gene transcription. This study analyzes single nucleotide polymorphisms in interleukin 10 and tumor necrosis factor α genes and their contribution to breast cancer phenotype, lymph node status and survival in a group of young Lithuanian women with early-stage breast cancer patients.

RESULTS

We genotyped 100 premenopausal Eastern European (Lithuanian) patients with stage I-II breast cancer, ≤ 50 years old at the time of diagnosis, for interleukin 10 -592A > C, -819C > T and -1082A > G and tumor necrosis factor α -308G > A single nucleotide polymorphisms in the gene promoter region. We used the polymerase chain reaction, namely a restriction fragment length polymorphism method, for a SNP analysis. All genotypes were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and had the same distribution as the HapMap CEU population. Holders of IL10 -592A > C heterozygous IL10 -592 AC genotype had a higher probability of estrogen receptor positive breast cancer phenotype than homozygous variants (P = 0.017). Phased ACC haplotype of IL10 polymorphisms was associated with younger age of diagnosis (P = 0.017). Of all the tested single nucleotide polymorphisms, only TNFα -308G > A has revealed a prognostic capability for breast cancer survival. GA genotype carriers, compared to GG, showed a significant disadvantage in progression-free survival (P = 0.005, adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 4.631, 95 % confidence interval (CI) = 1.587 - 13.512), metastasis-free survival (P = 0.010, HR = 4.708, 95 % CI = 1.445 - 15.345) and overall survival (P = 0.037, HR = 4.829, 95 % CI = 1.098 - 21.243).

CONCLUSIONS

According to our data, IL10 -1082A > G, -819 T > C, -592A > C polymorphisms and phased haplotypes have not revealed a prognostic value for breast cancer. On the contrary, the TNFα -308 polymorphism might modulate the risk and contribute to the identification of patients at a higher risk of breast cancer recurrence, metastasis and worse overall survival among young Lithuanian early-stage breast cancer patients.

Circulating interleukin-6 and cancer: A meta-analysis using Mendelian randomization

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) plays a contributory role in the progression and severity of many forms of cancer; it however remains unclear whether the relevance between circulating IL-6 and cancer is causal. We therefore meta-analyzed published articles in this regard using IL-6 gene -174G/C variant as an instrument. Seventy-eight and six articles were eligible for the association of -174G/C variant with cancer and circulating IL-6, respectively. Overall analyses failed to identify any significance between -174G/C and cancer risk. In Asians, carriers of the -174CC genotype had an 1.95-fold increased cancer risk compared with the -174GG genotype carriers (P = 0.009). By cancer type, significance was only attained for liver cancer with the -174C allele conferring a reduced risk under allelic (odds ratio or OR = 0.74; P = 0.001), homozygous genotypic (OR = 0.59; P = 0.029) and dominant (OR = 0.67; P = 0.004) models. Carriers of the -174CC genotype (weighted mean difference or WMD = −4.23 pg/mL; P < 0.001) and -174C allele (WMD = −3.43 pg/mL; P < 0.001) had circulating IL-6 reduced significantly compared with the non-carriers. In further Mendelian randomization analysis, a reduction of 1 pg/mL in circulating IL-6 was significantly associated with an 12% reduced risk of liver cancer. Long-term genetically-reduced circulating IL-6 might be causally associated with a lower risk of liver cancer.

Association of interleukin-6 genetic polymorphisms with risk of OSCC in Indian population

Purpose

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) encodes a cytokine protein, which causes inflammation, maintains immune homeostasis and plays an essential role in oral pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between IL-6 (− 174 and − 572) G/C promoter gene polymorphisms and risk of OSCC among Indians.

Methods

Single nucleotide polymorphism in IL-6 genes was genotyped in OSCC patients and healthy controls by PCR-RFLP method. Genotype and allele frequencies were analyzed by chi-square test and strength of associations by odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Frequency distribution of IL-6 (− 174) G/C gene polymorphism was significantly associated with OSCC patients in comparison to healthy controls (OR: 0.541, CI: 0.356–0.822; p: 0.004. However, frequency of IL-6 (− 572) G/C gene polymorphism was not significantly associated with OSCC patients (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The genotype GC and allele C of IL-6 (− 174) G/C gene polymorphism play a significant role in OSCC susceptibility.

•

We first demonstrate the IL-6 polymorphism in OSCC patients in Indian population.

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We obtained the SNP of IL-6 (-174) is increase the risk of OSCC.

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We also obtained the SNP of IL-6 (-572) and risk of OSCC

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We evaluate the correlation of these IL-6 polymorphisms and progression of OSCC.

•

We identified the environmental factors and gene interactions with pathogenesis of OSCC.

Interleukin 6 -174G>C polymorphism and cancer risk: meta-analysis reveals a site dependent differential influence in Ancestral North Indians

In our earlier studies, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with anti-inflammatory cytokines were found to influence risk for breast cancer in western Indian women. Analysis of Interleukin 6 (IL-6) -174G>C polymorphism in this cohort (patients = 182; controls = 236) suggested a protective role for IL-6 -174C allele associated with the lower expression of the cytokine (OR = 0.54; 95% CI 0.32-0.89, dominant model). Together these observations suggested that in comparison to Caucasians, inflammation associated-cytokine gene polymorphisms may have higher influence on risk for cancer in this population. To examine this possibility we analyzed data assessing influence of Interleukin 6 (IL-6) -174G>C polymorphism on risk for various cancers. Overall, there was a marginally higher risk for rare allele homozygotes compared to wild type homozygotes (OR = 1.07; 95% CI 1.00-1.15). Increased risks for genitourinary cancers and for skin cancer were also indicated. The ethnicity based analysis indicated a protective effect of the minor allele in Ancestral North Indians (OR = 0.73; 95% CI 0.55-0.97). Site by ethnicity analysis once again revealed a significant protection against breast cancer (OR = 0.51; 95% CI = 0.37-0.70; dominant model) but an opposite influence on the risk of genitourinary malignancies (OR = 2.51; 95% CI 1.59-3.96; recessive model) in this population alone. The observations imply that contribution of IL-6 to inflammation or effector immunity may depend on the site of malignancy. Assessment of available data in relation to prognosis in breast cancer patients also revealed trends that are compatible with the observations of the meta-analysis. Thus, IL-6 -174G>C polymorphism clearly represents a potential modulator of risk for malignant disorders with ethnicity and site dependent trends. The results also support the possibility of higher influence of inflammation related cytokine gene polymorphisms on the risk for cancers in Ancestral North Indians.

Relationships between genetic polymorphisms in inflammation-related factor gene and the pathogenesis of nasopharyngeal cancer

Our study aims to discuss the association between inflammation-related factors such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with susceptibility and recurrence in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. We used Taqman real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to characterize the genetic variation of five SNPs in 194 nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients and 231 healthy subjects. All statistical analysis is performed with statistical product and service solutions v13.0; odds ratio (OR) value and 95 % confidence interval (CI) were calculated. There is no relationship between TGFβ1 -869 T/C, IL-6 -634C/G, TGFβ1 -509C/T, IL1 -511C/T and nasopharyngeal carcinoma susceptibility. Both single factor and multiple factors analysis showed that IL1a -889 T/T genotype is significantly associated with nasopharyngeal carcinoma in decreasing the risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. A highly significant association was found between IL1a -889 T/T genotype and protective genotype as defined by various pathological types. This is more obvious in the protective genotype of the non-keratin-type squamous carcinoma undifferentiated type. We also discovered that genotype G/G and C/G + G/G of IL6 -634 gene are associated with reduced recurrence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. IL1a -889 gene polymorphism and susceptibility is related to nasopharyngeal carcinoma and can potentially decrease the risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in the Han Chinese population in north China. IL1-889 TT genotype is protective genotype for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. We have provided evidence that the GG genotype of the IL6 -634 gene is associated with recurrent risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The G allele is the protective gene of nasopharyngeal carcinoma recurrence.

Effects of interleukin-10 polymorphisms (rs1800896, rs1800871, and rs1800872) on breast cancer risk: evidence from an updated meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The associations between Interleukin-10 (IL-10) polymorphisms and breast cancer (BC) risk are inconsistent. This study was aimed to evaluate the relationship between IL-10 polymorphisms (rs1800896, rs1800871, and rs1800872) and BC risk.

METHODS

Databases, including PubMed, Web of Knowledge, Embase, and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, were searched to find relevant studies. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to estimate the strength of associations.

RESULTS

A total of 12 studies (4743 cancer cases and 5120 case-free controls) were eligible for meta-analysis. There were nine studies with 1851 cases and 1910 controls for rs1800896, six studies with 1034 cases and 1173 controls for rs1800871, and seven studies with 3637 cases and 3391 controls for rs1800872. Meta-analysis showed that rs1800896 and rs1800871 polymorphisms had no association with BC risk (for rs1800896: OR=1.060, 95% CI=0.785-1.432 in the dominant model, and OR=1.152, 95% CI=0.958-1.386 in the recessive model; for rs1800871: OR=0.952, 95% CI=0.859-1.056 in the dominant model, and OR=0.892, 95% CI=0.741-1.072 in the recessive model). However, rs1800872 polymorphism has association with BC risk based on the recessive model (OR=0.80, 95% CI=0.73-0.88). In the stratified analysis, when analyzed by the recessive model (CC vs. AA+AC), the ORs were 0.75 (95% CI=0.68-0.83) (p<0.00001) among Caucasians and 1.17 (95% CI=0.88-1.55) (p=0.27) among Asians. These results suggested that the CC homozygote has a 25% decreased risk of BC compared with those individuals with AA and AC genotypes in Caucasians.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis showed that IL-10 rs1800896 and rs1800871 polymorphisms had no association with BC risk, while rs1800872 polymorphism had a decreased risk of BC in Caucasians.

Genetic variants in interleukin genes are associated with breast cancer risk and survival in a genetically admixed population: the Breast Cancer Health Disparities Study

Interleukins (ILs) are key regulators of immune response. Genetic variation in IL genes may influence breast cancer risk and mortality given their role in cell growth, angiogenesis and regulation of inflammatory process. We examined 16 IL genes with breast cancer risk and mortality in an admixed population of Hispanic/Native American (NA) (2111 cases and 2597 controls) and non-Hispanic white (NHW) (1481 cases and 1585 controls) women. Adaptive Rank Truncated Product (ARTP) analysis was conducted to determine gene significance and lasso (least absolute shrinkage and selection operator) was used to identify potential gene by gene and gene by lifestyle interactions. The pathway was statistically significant for breast cancer risk overall (P ARTP = 0.0006), for women with low NA ancestry (P(ARTP) = 0.01), for premenopausal women (P(ARTP) = 0.02), for estrogen receptor (ER)+/progesterone receptor (PR)+ tumors (P(ARTP) = 0.03) and ER-/PR- tumors (P(ARTP) = 0.02). Eight of the 16 genes evaluated were associated with breast cancer risk (IL1A, IL1B, IL1RN, IL2, IL2RA, IL4, IL6 and IL10); four genes were associated with breast cancer risk among women with low NA ancestry (IL1B, IL6, IL6R and IL10), two were associated with breast cancer risk among women with high NA ancestry (IL2 and IL2RA) and four genes were associated with premenopausal breast cancer risk (IL1A, IL1B, IL2 and IL3). IL4, IL6R, IL8 and IL17A were associated with breast cancer-specific mortality. We confirmed associations with several functional polymorphisms previously associated with breast cancer risk and provide support that their combined effect influences the carcinogenic process.

Opposing effects of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine gene polymorphisms on the risk for breast cancer in western Indian women: a pilot study

In an earlier study, the genotypes associated with higher level of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) were found to reduce the risk for breast cancer in western Indian women. This observation implied that gene polymorphisms affecting the levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines may influence the risk for breast cancer in this population. Hence, we performed genotyping for three more functional single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) responsible for variations in the levels of cytokines associated with inflammation. To that effect, polymorphisms in genes coding for IL-4 (IL-4 C-590T; rs2243250), IFN-γ (IFN-G A + 874T; rs2430561) and MCP-1 (MCP-1 A-2578G; rs1024611) were examined in premenopausal, healthy women (N = 239) and patients with breast cancer (N = 182) from western India. In carriers of the IL-4*590T allele, a reduced risk for the disease (dominant model; OR = 0.61, 95% CI 0.37-0.98) was seen similar to that seen in TGF-B1*10C carriers. An opposite trend was observed with respect to the alleles associated with higher expression of MCP-1 or IFN-γ. In individuals positive for three or more alleles associated with higher levels of either pro- or anti-inflammatory cytokines, an additive effect on the modulation of risk for the disease was evident (for TGF-B1 & IL-4, OR = 0.33, 95% CI 0.12-0.87; for IFN-G & MCP-1, OR = 2.29, 95% CI 0.95-5.51). In the context of contrasting observations in other populations, these results indicate a significant contribution of anti-inflammatory genotypes in the modulation of risk for breast cancer in western Indian women.

Cytokine and cytokine receptor genes of the adaptive immune response are differentially associated with breast cancer risk in American women of African and European ancestry

Disparities in breast cancer biology are evident between American women of African ancestry (AA) and European ancestry (EA) and may be due, in part, to differences in immune function. To assess the potential role of constitutional host immunity on breast carcinogenesis, we tested associations between breast cancer risk and 47 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 26 cytokine-related genes of the adaptive immune system using 650 EA (n = 335 cases) and 864 AA (n = 458 cases) women from the Women's Circle of Health Study (WCHS). With additional participant accrual to the WCHS, promising SNPs from the initial analysis were evaluated in a larger sample size (1,307 EAs and 1,365 AAs). Multivariate logistic regression found SNPs in genes important for T helper type 1 (Th1) immunity (IFNGR2 rs1059293, IL15RA rs2296135, LTA rs1041981), Th2 immunity (IL4R rs1801275), and T regulatory cell-mediated immunosuppression (TGFB1 rs1800469) associated with breast cancer risk, mainly among AAs. The combined effect of these five SNPs was highly significant among AAs (P-trend = 0.0005). When stratified by estrogen receptor (ER) status, LTA rs1041981 was associated with ER-positive breast cancers among EAs and marginally among AAs. Only among AA women, IL15 rs10833 and IL15RA rs2296135 were associated with ER-positive tumors, and IL12RB1 rs375947, IL15 rs10833 and TGFB1 rs1800469 were associated with ER-negative tumors. Our study systematically identified genetic variants in the adaptive immune response pathway associated with breast cancer risk, which appears to differ by ancestry groups, menopausal status and ER status.

Innate immunity pathways and breast cancer Risk in African American and European-American women in the Women's Circle of Health Study (WCHS)

African American (AA) women are more likely than European American (EA) women to be diagnosed with early, aggressive breast cancer. Possible differences in innate immune pathways (e.g., inflammatory responses) have received little attention as potential mechanisms underlying this disparity. We evaluated distributions of selected genetic variants in innate immune pathways in AA and EA women, and examined their associations with breast cancer risk within the Women’s Circle of Health Study (WCHS). In stage I of the study (864 AA and 650 EA women) we found that genotype frequencies for 35 of 42 tested SNPs (18 candidate genes) differed between AAs and EAs (corroborated by ancestry informative markers). Among premenopausal AA women, comparing variant allele carriers to non-carriers, reduced breast cancer risk was associated with CXCL5-rs425535 (OR=0.61, P=0.02), while among EA women, there were associations with TNFA-rs1799724 (OR =2.31, P =0.002) and CRP-rs1205 (OR=0.54, P=0.01). For postmenopausal women, IL1B-rs1143627 (OR=1.80, P=0.02) and IL1B-rs16944 (OR=1.85, P =0.02) were associated with risk among EA women, with significant associations for TNFA-rs1799724 limited to estrogen receptor (ER) positive cancers (OR=2.0, P =0.001). However, none of the SNPs retained significance after Bonferroni adjustment for multiple testing at the level of P0.0012 (0.05/42) except for TNFA-rs1799724 in ER positive cancers. In a stage II validation (1,365 AA and 1,307 EA women), we extended evaluations for four SNPs (CCL2-rs4586, CRP-rs1205, CXCL5-rs425535, and IL1RN-rs4251961), which yielded similar results. In summary, distributions of variants in genes involved in innate immune pathways were found to differ between AA and EA populations, and showed differential associations with breast cancer according to menopausal or ER status. These results suggest that immune adaptations suited to ancestral environments may differentially influence breast cancer risk among EA and AA women.

Systematic review and meta-analysis on the association between IL-1B polymorphisms and cancer risk

BACKGROUND

Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, is emerging as a key mediator of carcinogenesis that characterizes host-environment interactions. Epidemiological studies investigating the association between two polymorphisms of IL-1B (-511C/T and +3954C/T) and cancer susceptibility have shown conflicting results. The aim of this study is to derive a more precise estimation of the relationship.

METHODS

Related studies were identified through a systematic literature search of PubMed and Web of Science from their inception to September 15, 2012. Summary odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the IL-1B -511C/T and +3954C/T polymorphisms and cancer risk were calculated. Heterogeneity among studies and publication bias were also tested.

RESULTS

The meta-analysis included 91 case-control studies in 85 publications, 81 studies for the -511C/T (19547 cases and 23935 controls) and 26 studies for the +3954C/T polymorphisms (8083 cases and 9183). The pooled results indicated that IL-1B +3954C/T (dominant model: OR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.01-1.30) was significantly associated with increased overall cancer risk, especially among hospital-based case-control studies (dominant model: OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.02-1.66). As for -511C/T, we observed an inverse relationship in cervical cancer (dominant model: OR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.35-2.23) and hepatocellular carcinoma (dominant model: OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.47-0.99). Moreover, -511C/T was associated with risk of specific subtypes of gastric carcinoma.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis suggested that both the IL-1B -511C/T and +3954C/T polymorphisms might modulate cancer susceptibility. Further well-designed studies based on larger sample sizes should be performed to confirm the findings.

The IL-10 promoter haplotype and cancer risk: evidence from a meta-analysis

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) plays a key role in immunosuppressive and anti-angiogenic process, suggesting its possible involvement in carcinogenesis. A haplotype formed by polymorphisms at positions -1082 G/A (rs1800896), -819 T/C (rs1800871), and -592 A/C (rs1800872) from the transcriptional start site in the promoter region of the IL-10 gene is a strong determinant for IL-10 production. We systematically reviewed the evidence of association between IL-10 promoter haplotype and cancer risk. Up to November 2011, databases including PubMed, and CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure) were searched to access the relevant genetic association studies. Summary odds ratios and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for this haplotype and cancer risk were estimated by using fixed or random-effect models when appropriate. Finally, 12 case-control studies with 2,090 cases and 4,224 controls were available for this study. The summary OR for cancer risk associated with the GCC haplotype was 1.47 (95 % CIs = 1.25-1.72) when compared with ATA haplotype by random effects model. Similarly, significantly increased risks were observed both in Caucasian and in Non Caucasian. Our results suggested that haplotype in IL-10 promoter was involved in the development of cancer.

Prognostic value of single nucleotide polymorphisms of candidate genes associated with inflammation in early stage breast cancer

To examine the role of germline genetic variations in inflammatory pathways as modifiers of time to recurrence (TTR) in patients with early stage breast cancer (BC), DNA from 997 early stage BC patients was genotyped for 53 tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 12 genes involved in inflammation. SNPs were analyzed separately for Caucasians versus African-Americans and Hispanics. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the association between SNPs in the inflammatory genes and TTR, adjusted for clinical and pathologic covariates. In univariable analyses of Caucasian women, the homozygous genotype of 12 SNPs, including 6 NFKB1 SNPs, 4 IL4 SNPs, and 2 IL13 SNPs, were significantly associated with a decrease in TTR compared with the heterozygous and/or corresponding homozygous genotype (P < 0.05). The significant NFKB1 and IL4 SNPs were in an area of high linkage disequilibrium (D' > 0.8). After adjusting for stage, age, and treatment, carriage of the homozygous genotypes for NFKB1 rs230532 and IL13rs1800925 were independently associated with a shorter TTR (P = 0.001 and P = 0.034, respectively). In African-American and Hispanic patients, expression of NFKB1 rs3774932, TNFrs1799964, and IL4rs3024543 SNPs were associated with a shorter TTR in univariable model. Only NFKB1 rs3774932 (P = 0.02) and IL4Rrs3024543 (P = 0.03) had independent prognostic value in the multivariable model These data support the existence of host genetic susceptibility as a component in recurrence risk mediated by pro-inflammatory and immune factors, and suggest the potential for drugs which modify immune responses and inflammatory genes to improve prognosis in early stage BC.

Association study of integrins beta 1 and beta 2 gene polymorphism and papillary thyroid cancer

BACKGROUND

We investigated whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of integrin beta 1 (ITGB1) and integrin beta 2 (ITGB2) contribute to the development of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC).

METHODS

Two synonymous SNPs (rs2230396 and rs2298141) of ITGB1 and 1 synonymous SNP (rs2352326), 1 5' URT-region SNP (rs2070947), and 1 promoter SNP (rs2070946) of ITGB2 SNPs were genotyped using direct sequencing in 94 patients with PTC and 213 healthy controls. Genetic data were analyzed using SNPStats (http://bioinfo.iconcologia.net/SNPstats), Helix Tree (Golden Helix Inc, Bozeman, MT), and SNPAnalyzer (ISTECH Corp, Goyang City, Republic of Korea).

RESULTS

The promoter SNP (rs2070946) of ITGB2 was significantly associated with the development of PTC (dominant model, log-additive model). The G allele frequencies of the promoter SNP (rs2070946) of ITBG2 in patients with PTC (19.9%) were increased by about 2-fold compared with controls (10.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that a promoter SNP (rs2070946) of ITGB2 might be associated with a risk of PTC.

Joint effects of Epstein-Barr virus and polymorphisms in interleukin-10 and interferon-γ on breast cancer risk

BACKGROUND

The relationship between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and breast cancer (BC) is controversial. Interleukin-10 (IL-10) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) are believed to play a critical role in the host's responses to EBV infection, and their genetic variations may modify the association of EBV with BC risk.

METHODS

We examined serum levels of EBV viral capsid antigen (VCA) immunoglobulin A (IgA) and nuclear antigen-1 (EBNA-1) IgA along with the polymorphisms of IL-10 rs1800871 and IFN-γ rs2069705 in 354 incident BC cases and 504 age-matched controls. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

VCA IgA and EBNA-1 IgA levels were positively associated with BC risk. IL-10 rs1800871 (TC/CC) was associated with a reduced BC risk (OR, 0.74 [95% CI, 0.55-1.00]) but had no interaction with EBV infection on BC risk. IFN-γ rs2069705 was not directly associated with BC risk but interacted with EBNA-1 IgA on BC risk. Among women with the CC genotype, EBNA-1 IgA seropositivity significantly increased the risk of BC compared to EBNA-1 IgA seronegativity (OR, 5.14 [95% CI, 1.76-14.98]).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that EBV may contribute to the risk of BC and that this contribution may be modified by genetic variations in IFN-γ.

The interleukin-10-1082 promoter polymorphism and cancer risk: a meta-analysis

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is a multifunctional cytokine with both immunosuppressive and anti-angiogenic properties and play an important role in the pathogenesis of cancer. IL-10-1082A>G polymorphism is the most extensively studied polymorphism in the IL-10 gene in cancer susceptibility. To date, a number of case-control studies were conducted to investigate the association between IL-10-1082A>G polymorphism and cancer risk in humans. However, the association between the IL-10-1082A>G polymorphism and cancer risk is still ambiguous. In an effort to solve this controversy, we performed a meta-analysis based on 61 case-control studies, including 14,499 cancer cases and 16,967 controls. We used odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess the strength of the association. In the stratified analyses by specific cancer type, increased risk was found in lung cancer (OR = 3.16, 95% CI = 1.16-8.63 for GA versus AA; OR = 2.07, 95% CI = 1.16-3.70 for GG versus AA; OR = 3.17, 95% CI = 1.31-7.68 for GA/GG versus AA) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.02-1.36 for GA versus AA; OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.02-1.35 for GA/GG versus AA). The meta-analysis also indicated that the variant genotypes were associated with a moderately increased risk in Asians in all genetic models (OR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.17-2.76 for GA versus AA; OR = 3.32, 95% CI = 1.62-6.82 for GG versus AA; OR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.07-2.60 for GA/GG versus AA; OR= 2.93, 95% CI = 1.43-6.03 for GG versus AA/GA). The meta-analysis suggested that the IL-10-1082A>G polymorphism was associated with increased risk of cancer in Asians and lung cancer and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. To draw comprehensive and true conclusions, more researches with larger numbers of worldwide participants are needed to examine associations between IL-10-1082A>G polymorphism and cancer risk.

Associations between promoter polymorphism -106A/G of interleukin-11 receptor alpha and papillary thyroid cancer in Korean population

BACKGROUND

The interleukin11 (IL11) and IL11 receptor alpha (IL11RA) are involved in cellular growth, differentiation, invasiveness, and tumor progression in several tumors. We investigated whether coding single nucleotide polymorphisms (cSNPs) of IL11 and promoter SNP IL11RA would contribute to the development of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). We also assessed the relationships between IL11 and IL11RA SNPs and the clinicopathologic characteristics of PTC.

METHODS

One coding SNP, designated as rs1126757, Ala82Ala, in IL11 and one promoter SNP, designated as rs1061758, -106A/G, in IL11RA were genotyped using direct sequencing in 94 patents with PTC and 213 patients without PTC (controls). Genetic data were analyzed using commercially available software. The patients with PTC were dichotomized and compared with respect to clinicopathologic characteristics of PTC.

RESULTS

We found an association between PTC and the coding SNP(rs1061758) in IL11RA (codominant model 1 [G/G vs. A/G], odds ratio [OR] = 2.91, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.44-5.89; P = .003; codominant model 2 [G/G vs. A/A], OR = 2.95, 95% CI, 1.30-6.72; P = .01; and dominant model, OR = 2.92, 95% CI, 1.47-5.80; P = .002). Moreover, SNP rs1061758 in IL11RA was associated with the multifocality of PTC (codominant model 2 [A/A vs. G/G], OR = 9.56, 95% CI, 1.77-51.69; P = .009; and recessive model, OR = 7.22, 95% CI, 1.72-30.3; P = .007). Genotype and allele analyses of SNP variant rs1126757 in IL11 revealed no statistically significant differences between patients with PTC and controls.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that an IL11RA promoter polymorphism--rs1061758--may be associated with the risk of PTC in the Korean population. In addition, rs1061758 might be related to the multifocality of PTC.

Interleukin-6 and the IL-6 (-174) C/G polymorphism in breast pathologies and in HIV-infected patients

INTRODUCTION

Breast cancer and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) are key issues for modern medicine. The aim of the current study was to present how cytokines, in the example of IL-6 and its polymorphism, can affect these two conditions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty-one women with benign breast tumours, 42 breast cancer patients and 40 HIV-infected females were enrolled in the study. Serum IL-6 levels were determined by ELISA. The IL-6 polymorphism was genotyped by PCR-RFLP.

RESULTS

Serum IL-6 in patients with benign breast tumours was significantly lower than in females with breast cancer (p = 0.017) and HIV-infected women (p = 0.032). We did not find statistically significant differences in serum IL-6 level between females with breast cancer and HIV-infected women (p = 0.749). Comparing the distribution of genotypes and frequency of the IL-6 (-174) C/G polymorphism between the three study groups - breast cancer patients, patients with benign breast tumours, and HIV-infected patients - we did not find any statistically significant differences.

CONCLUSIONS

IL-6 can play an important role in pathogenesis of breast cancer and HIV infection and its level is higher than in the control group irrespective of distribution of genotypes and frequency of the IL-6 (-174) C/G polymorphism.

IL-6 -174G>C polymorphism and cancer risk: a meta-analysis involving 29,377 cases and 37,739 controls

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a multifunctional cytokine involved in different physiologic and pathophysiologic processes and plays important roles in the etiology of cancer. The -174G>C polymorphism of the IL-6 gene influences IL-6 transcription and has been implicated in cancer risk. However, published data have been conflicting. To derive a more precise estimation of the relationship, a meta-analysis of 29,377 cancer cases and 37,739 controls from 50 published case-control studies was performed. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated to assess the association between -174G>C polymorphism and cancer risk. Overall meta-analysis indicated that no association was found between -174G>C genotypes and cancer risk. However, the positive association was found in bladder cancer (OR=4.33, 95% CI: 1.93-9.71 for CC vs. GC, OR=2.81, 95% CI: 1.39-5.68 for CC vs. GG, and OR=2.19, 95% CI: 1.32-3.64 for CC vs. GG/GC), and among Asians (OR=2.08, 95% CI: 1.07-4.06 for CC vs. GG, and OR=2.20, 95% CI: 1.02-4.74 for CC vs. GG/GC) and Africans (OR=1.61, 95% CI: 1.07-2.42 for GC vs. GG). This meta-analysis showed the evidence that the -174G>C of the IL-6 gene was a low-penetrance susceptibility gene for bladder cancer. Further larger, preferably prospective studies are needed to confirm this relationship.

Polymorphisms in oxidative stress and inflammation pathway genes, low-dose ionizing radiation, and the risk of breast cancer among US radiologic technologists

OBJECTIVE

Ionizing radiation, an established breast cancer risk factor, has been shown to induce oxidative damage and chronic inflammation. Polymorphic variation in oxidative stress and inflammatory-mediated pathway genes may modify radiation-related breast cancer risk.

METHODS

We estimated breast cancer risk for 28 common variants in 16 candidate genes involved in these pathways among 859 breast cancer cases and 1,083 controls nested within the US Radiologic Technologists cohort. We estimated associations between occupational and personal diagnostic radiation exposures with breast cancer by modeling the odds ratio (OR) as a linear function in logistic regression models and assessed heterogeneity of the dose-response across genotypes.

RESULTS

There was suggestive evidence of an interaction between the rs5277 variant in PTGS2 and radiation-related breast cancer risk. The excess OR (EOR)/Gy from occupational radiation exposure = 5.5 (95%CI 1.2-12.5) for the GG genotype versus EOR/Gy < 0 (95%CI < 0-3.8) and EOR/Gy < 0 (95%CI < 0-14.8) for the GC and CC genotypes, respectively, (p (interaction) = 0.04). The association between radiation and breast cancer was not modified by other SNPs examined.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that variation in PTGS2 may modify the breast cancer risk from occupational radiation exposure, but replication in other populations is needed to confirm this result.