Germline Genetic Variants Disturbing the Let-7/LIN28 Double-Negative Feedback Loop Alter Breast Cancer Susceptibility
2011

Genetic Variants Affecting the Let-7/LIN28 Feedback Loop and Breast Cancer Risk

Sample size: 2300 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Chen Ao-Xiang, Yu Ke-Da, Fan Lei, Li Ji-Yu, Yang Chen, Huang A-Ji, Shao Zhi-Ming

Primary Institution: Fudan University, Shanghai, China

Hypothesis

Do germline genetic variants disturb the regulation of the let-7/LIN28 feedback loop and alter breast cancer risk?

Conclusion

The study found that the C allele of the rs3811463 SNP is associated with increased LIN28 protein levels and decreased let-7 levels, leading to a higher risk of breast cancer.

Supporting Evidence

  • The C allele of rs3811463 was associated with a 1.25 odds ratio for breast cancer risk.
  • Individuals with the TC genotype had significantly lower levels of let-7 and higher levels of LIN28 protein.
  • Two independent studies confirmed the association of rs3811463 with breast cancer risk.

Takeaway

Some people have a genetic change that makes them more likely to get breast cancer because it affects how their body controls certain proteins.

Methodology

The study involved genetic association studies and tissue analysis to evaluate the impact of specific SNPs on breast cancer risk.

Potential Biases

Potential biases may arise from the selection of participants and the focus on specific genetic variants.

Limitations

The study did not include individuals with the rare rs3811463-CC genotype, which may limit the findings.

Participant Demographics

The study focused on Han Chinese women.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.0091

Confidence Interval

1.06–1.47

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pgen.1002259

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