Association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and folate, vitamin B12, homocysteine, and DNA fragmentation in patients with ovarian cancer

Abstract

Abstract Objective Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is an important enzyme that regulates the metabolism of methionine and folate. MTHFR C677T polymorphism was reported to be associated with breast and ovarian cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between the MTHFR C677T (rs1801133) polymorphism and homocysteine, vitamin B12, and folate levels, and DNA fragmentation in patients with ovarian cancer and healthy controls. Materials and methods This case-control study was conducted in Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty. We studied 50 ovarian cancer patients and 54 healthy controls. The MTHFR C677T polymorphism was determined by PCR followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and agarose gel electrophoresis. DNA fragmentation was assessed by the comet assay. Homocysteine levels were measured by ELISA, whereas vitamin B12 and folate levels were measured by chemiluminescence methods. Results We found no correlation between the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and ovarian cancer. No significant difference was found in homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12 levels between patient and control groups. Increased DNA fragmentation was detected in patients with ovarian cancer. Conclusion Our findings suggest that MTHFR C677T polymorphism, as well as homocysteine, folic acid, and vitamin B12 levels, are not associated with an increased risk for ovarian cancer.