Mitochondrial DNA Variants and Colorectal Cancer Risk
Author Information
Author(s): Webb E, Broderick P, Chandler I, Lubbe S, Penegar S, Tomlinson I P M, Houlston R S
Primary Institution: Institute of Cancer Research
Hypothesis
Common mtDNA variation influences the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC).
Conclusion
Our results provide little evidence that mitochondrial genetic background plays a role in modifying an individual's risk of developing CRC.
Supporting Evidence
- 132 tagging mtDNA variants were genotyped in a large sample of CRC cases and controls.
- Only one SNP (A5657G) showed a nominal association with CRC risk.
- Overall, the distribution of association P-values was consistent with a null distribution.
Takeaway
Scientists looked at DNA from people with and without colorectal cancer to see if certain DNA changes could affect cancer risk, but they found no strong links.
Methodology
Genotyping of 132 mtDNA variants in 2854 CRC cases and 2822 controls.
Potential Biases
Post hoc analyses may generate spurious associations.
Limitations
The study does not address the role of mtDNA heteroplasmy in CRC.
Participant Demographics
2863 CRC cases (1196 men, 1667 women; mean age 59.3 years) and 2838 controls (1136 men, 1702 women; mean age 59.8 years), all British and of European descent.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.06
Statistical Significance
p<0.1
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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