V736A (rs855791) polymorphism in the TMPRSS6 gene is associated with iron deficiency anemia in females of reproductive age: A meta-analysis

Abstract

BackgroundSeveral studies suggested that mutations in the TMPRSS6 gene affect hepcidin production, which may lead to iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Hence, this meta-analysis explored the association of the V736A or the rs855791 polymorphism in the TMPRSS6 gene with IDA development. MethodsRelated studies were searched as of December 24, 2023. Two authors screened the resulting studies, and data were extracted and collated in a customized spreadsheet. Review Manager 5.4 and Meta-Essentials were used to compute the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). ResultsA total of 187 studies were screened. From this, only six studies satisfied the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. Analysis of the allelic model showed a high degree of inter-study heterogeneity, which prompted us to determine the cause through sub-group analysis. Sub-groups were conceptualized based on the participant characteristics. Based on this, homogenous findings were observed for the allelic, co-dominant, and dominant models of the association between the polymorphism and the development of IDA among females of reproductive age still experiencing menstruation. Non-significant and highly heterogeneous outcomes were noted for the other sub-groups. ConclusionOverall, based on the pooled findings, the V736A polymorphism is associated with IDA development in females of reproductive age still experiencing menstruation. However, further studies are needed to verify these claims.