The XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphism influences glioma risk - a meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Findings from previous published studies regarding the association of the XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphism with glioma susceptibility have often been conflicting. Therefore, a meta-analysis including all available publications was carried out to make a more precise estimation of the potential relationship.

Methods: By searching the electronic databases of Pubmed and Embase (up to April 1st, 2013), a total of nine case-control studies with 3,752 cases and 4,849 controls could be identified for inclusion in the current meta-analysis. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the strength of the association.

Results: This meta-analysis showed the XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphism to be significantly associated with decreased glioma risk in the allelic model (Met allele vs. Thr allele: OR= 0.708, 95%CI= 0.631-0.795). Moreover, we also observed a statistically significant association between the XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphism and reduced glioma risk in analyses stratified by ethnicity (Asian) and source of controls (hospital based) in the allelic model.

Conclusions: Current evidence suggests that the XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphism may be a risk factor for glioma development, especially in Asians.