VEGF gene +936C/T polymorphism decreases the risk of colorectal cancer

Abstract

© Mattioli 1885. Background/Aims: Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a signal protein and plays a major role in angiogenesis and metastasis of tumors. Some variation in the 3’ untranslated region (3’UTR) of VEGF gene could alter the expression of this gene. In this study we have evaluated the possible association between +936C/T (rs3025039) polymorphism located in 3’UTR of VEGF gene and the risk of colo rectal cancer (CRC) in an Iranian population. Methods: In the present case-control study, VEGF genotypes of +936C/T polymorphism were determined in 200 patients with CRC and 200 control individuals. DNA was extracted from blood specimens and genotypes were analyzed by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. Results: A significant correlation was found between +936C/T variant in the VEGF gene and CRC risk. Frequency of the TT genotype was 16% in controls and 2% in the case study. There was a statistically significant difference in TT genotype frequency between CRC patients and controls (adjusted OR= 0.229, 95% CI= 0.058-0.899; P=0.035). Conclusions: These results suggest that the TT genotype may have a protective effect against CRC in an Iranian population.