Independent Study Populations Research Articles

Abstract 1908: Meta-analysis of prospective epidemiologic studies of red meat intake and colorectal cancer

Abstract Background: The relationship between red meat consumption and colorectal cancer (CRC) has been the subject of scientific debate. Objective: To estimate the summary association between red meat intake and CRC and to examine sources of heterogeneity, a meta-analysis of prospective studies was conducted. Design: Thirty-four prospective studies of red meat and CRC were identified, of which, 25 represented independent non-overlapping study populations. Summary relative risk estimates (SRREs) for high vs. low intake and dose-response relationships were calculated. Results: In the high vs. low intake meta-analysis, the SRRE was 1.12 (95% CI: 1.04-1.21) with significant heterogeneity (p = 0.014). Summary associations were modified by tumor site and gender. The SRREs for colon cancer and rectal cancer were 1.11 (95% CI: 1.03-1.19) and 1.19 (95% CI: 0.97-1.46), respectively. The SRREs among men and women were 1.21 (95% CI: 1.04-1.42) and 1.01 (95% CI: 0.87-1.17), respectively. Conclusions: The available epidemiologic data are not sufficient to support an independent and unequivocal positive association between red meat intake and CRC. This conclusion is based upon summary associations that are weak in magnitude, heterogeneity across studies, inconsistent patterns of associations across the sub-group analyses, and the likely influence of confounding by other dietary and lifestyle factors. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1908. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-1908

A possible association between a dysfunctional skin barrier (filaggrin null-mutation status) and diabetes: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundFilaggrin proteins are located in the skin and prevent epidermal water loss and impede the entry of micro-organisms, allergens and chemicals. Filaggrin null mutations are strongly associated with ichthyosis vulgaris...

Unifying Candidate Gene and GWAS Approaches in Asthma

The first genome wide association study (GWAS) for childhood asthma identified a novel major susceptibility locus on chromosome 17q21 harboring the ORMDL3 gene, but the role of previous asthma candidate genes was not specifically analyzed in this GWAS. We systematically identified 89 SNPs in 14 candidate genes previously associated with asthma in >3 independent study populations. We re-genotyped 39 SNPs in these genes not covered by GWAS performed in 703 asthmatics and 658 reference children. Genotyping data were compared to imputation data derived from Illumina HumanHap300 chip genotyping. Results were combined to analyze 566 SNPs covering all 14 candidate gene loci. Genotyped polymorphisms in ADAM33, GSTP1 and VDR showed effects with p-values <0.0035 (corrected for multiple testing). Combining genotyping and imputation, polymorphisms in DPP10, EDN1, IL12B, IL13, IL4, IL4R and TNF showed associations at a significance level between p = 0.05 and p = 0.0035. These data indicate that (a) GWAS coverage is insufficient for many asthma candidate genes, (b) imputation based on these data is reliable but incomplete, and (c) SNPs in three previously identified asthma candidate genes replicate in our GWAS population with significance after correction for multiple testing in 14 genes.

Functional Genomics of Serotonin Receptor 2A (HTR2A): Interaction of Polymorphism, Methylation, Expression and Disease Association

Serotonergic neurotransmission plays a key role in the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric illnesses. The functional significance of a promoter polymorphism, −1438G/A (rs6311), in one of the major genes of this system (serotonin receptor 2A, HTR2A) remains poorly understood in the context of epigenetic factors, transcription factors and endocrine influences. We used functional and structural equation modeling (SEM) approaches to assess the contributions of the polymorphism (rs6311), DNA methylation and clinical variables to HTR2A expression in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) subjects from a population-based study. HTR2A was up-regulated in CFS through allele-specific expression modulated by transcription factors at critical sites in its promoter: an E47 binding site at position −1,438, (created by the A-allele of rs6311 polymorphism), a glucocorticoid receptor (GR) binding site encompassing a CpG at position −1,420, and Sp1 binding at CpG methylation site −1,224. Methylation at −1,420 was strongly correlated with methylation at −1,439, a CpG site that is dependent upon the G-allele of rs6311 at position −1,438. SEM revealed a strong negative interaction between E47 and GR binding (in conjunction with cortisol level) on HTR2A expression. This study suggests that the promoter polymorphism (rs6311) can affect both transcription factor binding and promoter methylation, and this along with an individual’s stress response can impact the rate of HTR2A transcription in a genotype and methylation-dependent manner. This study can serve as an example for deciphering the molecular determinants of transcriptional regulation of major genes of medical importance by integrating functional genomics and SEM approaches. Confirmation in an independent study population is required.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s12017-010-8138-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

ESR1 promoter polymorphism is not associated with nonsyndromic cryptorchidism

The ESR1 promoter microsatellite (TA)n was reported as a potential functional polymorphism. In a case-control study, we were unable to demonstrate any association between (TA)n and nonsyndromic cryptorchidism in Italian and Spanish study populations.

Processed meat and colorectal cancer: a quantitative review of prospective epidemiologic studies

A tremendous amount of scientific interest has been generated regarding processed meat consumption and cancer risk. Therefore, to estimate the association between processed meat intake and colorectal cancer (CRC), a meta-analysis of prospective studies was conducted. Twenty-eight prospective studies of processed meat and CRC were identified, of which 20 represented independent nonoverlapping study populations. Summary relative risk estimates (SRREs) for high versus low intake and dose-response relationships were calculated. The SRRE for high (vs. low) processed meat intake and CRC was 1.16 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10-1.23] for all studies. Summary associations were modified considerably by sex; the SRRE for men was 1.23 (95% CI: 1.07-1.42) and the SRRE for women was 1.05 (95% CI: 0.94-1.16), based on nine and 13 studies, respectively. Sensitivity analyses did not indicate appreciable statistical variation by tumor site, processed meat groups, or study location. The SRRE for each 30-gram increment of processed meat and CRC was 1.10 (95% CI: 1.05-1.15) based on nine studies, and the SRRE for each incremental serving of processed meat per week was 1.03 (95% CI: 1.01-1.05) based on six studies. Overall, summary associations were weak in magnitude (i.e. most less than 1.20), processed meat definitions and analytical comparisons were highly variable across studies, and isolating the independent effects of processed meat intake is difficult, given the likely influence of confounding by other dietary and lifestyle factors. Therefore, the currently available epidemiologic evidence is not sufficient to support a clear and unequivocal independent positive association between processed meat consumption and CRC.

Genetic Polymorphisms of CYP2E1, GSTP1, NQO1 and MPO and the Risk of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma in a Han Chinese Population of Southern China

BackgroundSouthern China is a major area for endemic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Genetic factors as well as environmental factors play a role in development of NPC. To investigate the roles of previously described carcinogen metabolism gene variants for NPC susceptibility in a Han Chinese population, we conducted a case-control study in two independent study population groups afflicted with NPC in Guangdong and Guangxi Provinces of southern China.MethodsFive single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of CYP2E1-rs2031920, CYP2E1-rs6413432, GSTP1-rs947894, MPO-rs2333227 and NQO1-rs1800566 were genotyped by PCR-based RFLP, sequencing and TaqMan assay in 358 NPC cases and 629 controls (phase I cohort). Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). To confirm our results, sixteen tag SNPs for GSTP1, MPO, NQO1 (which 100% covered these genes), and 4 functional SNPs of CYP2E1 were genotyped in another cohort of 213 NPC cases and 230 controls (phase II cohort).ResultsNo significant associations in NPC risk were observed for the five polymorphisms tested in the phase I cohort. In an additional stratified analysis for phase I, there was no significant association between cases and controls in NPC high risk population (EBV/IgA/VCA positive population). Analysis of 14 tagging SNPs within the same genes in an independent phase II cohort were in agreement with no SNPs significantly associated with NPC.ConclusionsOur results suggest that polymorphism of CYP2E1, GSTP1, MPO and NQO1 genes does not contribute to overall NPC risk in a Han Chinese in southern China.

Evidence for three loci modifying age‐at‐onset of Alzheimer's disease in early‐onset PSEN2 families

Families with early-onset Alzheimer's disease (AD) sharing a single PSEN2 mutation exhibit a wide range of age-at-onset, suggesting that modifier loci segregate within these families. While APOE is known to be an age-at-onset modifier, it does not explain all of this variation. We performed a genome scan within nine such families for loci influencing age-at-onset, while simultaneously controlling for variation in the primary PSEN2 mutation (N141I) and APOE. We found significant evidence of linkage between age-at-onset and chromosome 1q23.3 (P < 0.001) when analysis included all families, and to chromosomes 1q23.3 (P < 0.001), 17p13.2 (P = 0.0002), 7q33 (P = 0.017), and 11p14.2 (P = 0.017) in a single large pedigree. Simultaneous analysis of these four chromosomes maintained strong evidence of linkage to chromosomes 1q23.3 and 17p13.2 when all families were analyzed, and to chromosomes 1q23.3, 7q33, and 17p13.2 within the same single pedigree. Inclusion of major gene covariates proved essential to detect these linkage signals, as all linkage signals dissipated when PSEN2 and APOE were excluded from the model. The four chromosomal regions with evidence of linkage all coincide with previous linkage signals, associated SNPs, and/or candidate genes identified in independent AD study populations. This study establishes several candidate regions for further analysis and is consistent with an oligogenic model of AD risk and age-at-onset. More generally, this study also demonstrates the value of searching for modifier loci in existing datasets previously used to identify primary causal variants for complex disease traits.

Abstract 5710: COX-1 and COX-2 polymorphisms, NSAID use, and the risk of colorectal neoplasia

Abstract Introduction: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce risk of colorectal adenomas and cancer. NSAIDs, including aspirin, target the prostaglandin H synthases, COX-1 and COX-2, which convert arachidonic acid into prostaglandins. We examined tagSNPs and candidate polymorphisms in COX-1 and COX-2 in relation to colorectal neoplasia risk and potential interactions with NSAID use. Methods: A linkage-disequilibrium (LD)-based tagSNP-selection algorithm (r2=0.90, MAF=4%) identified tagSNPs in PTGS1 (COX-1) and PTGS2 (COX-2) representative of common genetic variation in Europeans. Including candidate polymorphisms, we genotyped 18 SNPs in PTGS1 and 17 SNPs in PTGS2. SNPs were genotyped on the same Illumina platform in three independent study populations that capture the range of colorectal carcinogenesis by including adenoma and cancer cases. We investigated these SNPs in relation to the risk of colorectal neoplasia and potential interactions with NSAID use in three US population-based case-control studies of colon cancer (n=1424) vs. controls (n=1780), rectal cancer (n=583) vs. controls (n=775), and colorectal adenoma (n=485) vs. controls (n=578). For single SNP associations, multiple logistic regression analysis was used, adjusting for age, sex, center and restricted to Caucasians (&amp;gt;90% of all study populations). No correction was made for multiple testing. Results: There were no main associations with PTGS1 tagSNPs or candidate polymorphisms (R8W, P17L and L237M) and colorectal neoplasia risk. Although not statistically significant, the L15-L16 deletion allele showed a trend towards increased risk for both colon and rectal cancer, consistent with the previously reported increased adenoma risk. In PTGS2, a rare 5′ tagSNP (rs4648250, −1877A&amp;gt;G, MAF=1%) was associated with a marginally decreased risk of both rectal (OR: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.05-1.08) and colon cancer (OR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.36-1.10). NSAID use is known to reduce the risk of colorectal neoplasia and all three studies have shown the same protective effect in previous analyses. Interactions between genotypes and NSAID use essentially fell into one of two general categories: a) Individuals with the variant allele lost the protective effect of NSAID use (PTGS1 rs10306110-G, rectal p-interaction=0.02, adenoma p-int=0.08; PTGS2 rs689466-G, rectal p-int=0.03, colon p-int=0.18; rs20424-G, colon p-int=0.05; rs689469-A, colon p-int=0.03, rectal p-int=0.09).); and b) Individuals with the variant allele showed stronger protection with by NSAIDs than individuals with the wildtype genotype (PTGS1 rs6478565-G, rs10306135-T, rs10306164-G, rectal p-int=0.01-0.02). Conclusion: These data suggest that a rare 5′ SNP in PTGS2 may predict risk of colorectal cancer and provide further evidence that genetic variability in PTGS1 and PTGS2 may modify the protective association between NSAID and colorectal neoplasia risk, especially for rectal cancer. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5710.

Abstract 934: Phospholipase A2A polymorphisms and risk of colorectal neoplasia

Abstract Introduction: Pancreatic phospholipase A2 (also known as PLA2G1B or PLA2A) catalyzes the release of fatty acids from dietary phospholipids for adsorption in the small intestine. Some of the polyunsaturated fatty acids removed from the intestinal lumen are precursors to eicosanoids, which are linked to inflammation, cell proliferation and colorectal carcinogenesis. We suspect that genetic variation at the PLA2A locus might affect colorectal neoplasia and thus we evaluated the association of PLA2A tagSNPs with colorectal neoplasia risk in three independent study populations capturing the range of colorectal carcinogenesis. Methods: A linkage-disequilibrium (LD)-based tagSNP selection algorithm (r2=0.90, MAF=4%) identified 3 tagSNPs in PLA2A. We genotyped these SNPs on the same Illumina platform in 3 US population-based case-control studies of colon cancer (1424 cases/1780 controls), rectal cancer (583 cases/775 controls), and colorectal adenomas (485 cases/578 controls). LD was calculated among Caucasian controls for each study. For gene-level associations, we conducted principal components analysis (PCA) and haplotype analysis. Multiple logistic regression was used for single SNPs, adjusting for age, sex, and study center, restricted to Caucasians (&amp;gt;90% of all study populations). Results: Two PLA2A variants were statistically significantly associated with reduced risk of rectal cancer (rs5637, 3702G&amp;gt;A Ser98Ser, p-trend = 0.03 and rs9657930, 1593C&amp;gt;T p-trend = 0.01, see table). Linkage disequilibrium between the SNPs was modest (r2&amp;lt;0.6). Principal component analysis was significant (p=0.02). No statistically significant associations were observed with colon cancer or colorectal polyps overall; however, there was significant heterogeneity by tumor site for polyps (p= 0.01). Conclusion: The results suggest that genetic variability in PLA2A affects susceptibility to rectal but not colon cancer. Additional observational and functional follow-up studies are needed.Table.Selected tagSNPs in PLA2A and risk of rectal cancer, adjusted for age, sex, and study centerSNPGenotypeCasesControlsOR95%CIp (2df)p-trendrs56373702 G&amp;gt;AGG4285361.00.. Ser98SerGA1472150.850.661.08 AA8230.430.190.980.060.03 rs9657930CC4886141.00.. 1593 C&amp;gt;TCT891480.750.561.00 TT3100.390.111.430.050.01 rs2070873GG4365741.00.. 3027 G&amp;gt;TGT1391811.000.781.29 TT6190.420.171.060.150.36Principal component analysis p= 0.02 Note: This abstract was not presented at the AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010 because the presenter was unable to attend. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 934.

Abstract 927: Interleukin-23 receptor tagSNPs and colorectal neoplasia risk

Abstract Introduction: Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are inflammatory conditions that predispose to colorectal cancer. Genetic variation in the interleukin-23 receptor (IL23R), specifically rs11209026 (Arg381Gln) and rs11465804 (68723 T&amp;gt;G), have been consistently associated with CD and UC. We investigated IL23R candidate and tagSNPs in relation to colorectal neoplasia risk. All SNPs were genotyped on an identical Illumina platform in three independent study populations capturing the range of colorectal carcinogenesis. Methods: A linkage-disequilibrium (LD)-based tagSNP selection algorithm (r2=0.90, MAF=4%) identified 23 tagSNPs, including the candidates rs11209026 and rs11465804, representing common genetic variation in Europeans. In three US population-based case-control studies of colon cancer (n=1424 cases/1780 controls), rectal cancer (n=583 cases/775 controls), and colorectal adenomas (n=485 cases/578 controls), we investigated IL23R SNPs. Gene-level analyses were conducted using principal components and haplotype analyses. Single SNPs were analyzed using logistic regression. All analyses were adjusted for age, sex, and study center, and were restricted to Caucasians (&amp;gt;90% of all study populations). Results: No associations were observed for the IL23R candidate SNPs, although there was a suggestion of increased adenoma and rectal cancer risk with rs11465804. Without correction for multiple testing, three SNPs were associated with rectal cancer risk at α=0.05 (see Table). Of these, rs10889675 was also associated with a non-significant decreased risk of adenomas. There were no significant associations with colon cancer; however, the homozygous variant genotype of rs10889676 was associated with increased adenoma risk. Conclusion: These data provide evidence that genetic variability in IL23R may contribute to rectal cancer risk and adds some further support to the role of IL23R in gastrointestinal diseases. Functional follow-up studies are needed.Table.Selected tagSNPS in IL23R and risk of rectal cancer or adenomaSNPGenotypeCasesControlsOR95% CIp (2df)p-trendRectal cancer*rs10889675CC4675831.00- CA1091790.760.581.00 AA7130.680.271.730.110.04 rs11465770CC4786051.00- CT981530.800.611.07 TT2110.220.051.010.030.03 rs7542081CC2523141.00- CA2713480.970.771.22 AA581120.650.450.920.040.05 Colorectal Adenoma**rs10889676CC2352811.00- CA1962680.870.671.14 AA50331.610.982.660.050.50*Adjusted for age, sex, and study center.**Adjusted for age and sex. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 927.

Abstract 933: Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) candidate and tagSNPs and risk of colorectal neoplasia

Abstract Introduction: Glutathione peroxidases (GPXs) are selenium-dependent enzymes that scavenge hydroperoxides linked to oxidative stress, prostaglandin synthesis, inflammation and proliferation. Because these processes are important in carcinogenesis, we hypothesized that genetic variability in the GPXs may influence colorectal neoplasia risk. We investigated candidate polymorphisms and tagSNPs in GPX1-4 in relation to colorectal neoplasia in three independent study populations capturing the range of colorectal carcinogenesis. Methods: A linkage-disequilibrium (LD)-based tagSNP selection algorithm (r2=0.90, MAF=4%) identified 24 tagSNPs, including the candidates (GPX1 P200L and GPX4 2573 C&amp;gt;T), representing common genetic variation in Europeans. We used an identical Illumina platform to investigate GPX SNPs in three US population-based case-control studies of colon cancer (1424 cases/1780 controls), rectal cancer (583 cases/775 controls), and colorectal adenomas (485 cases/578 controls). For gene-level associations, we conducted principal components analysis (PCA). Multiple logistic regression was used for single SNPs, adjusting for age, sex, and study center, restricted to Caucasians (&amp;gt;90% of all study populations). Results: In PCA, GPX3 was significant for rectal cancer at p=0.03. Without correction for multiple testing, five polymorphisms in GPX2 and GPX3 were associated with significant differences in rectal cancer risk at α=0.05 (see Table). GPX3 rs8177406 also reduced risk in rectal polyps. The candidate GPX1 P200L showed a marginally increased risk for LP/LL vs. PP (1.22, 0.98-1.52, p=0.06). No other SNPs in GPX1-4 showed significant associations for rectal cancer or adenomas. No associations were observed for colon cancer. Conclusion: These data provide evidence that genetic variability in GPX2 and GPX3 contributes to risk of rectal cancer but not of colon cancer and thus provide additional support for unique etiological mechanisms for colon and rectal cancer.Table.Selected tagSNPs in GPX1, GPX2 and GPX3 and risk of rectal cancer, adjusted for age, sex, and study center*SNPGenotypeCasesControlsOR95%CIp (2df)p-trendGPX1rs105045**CC252367 2834 C&amp;gt;T, P200LCT or TT3013601.220.981.520.06NAGPX2rs2277502**GG4595741.00.. 2834 G&amp;gt;AGA or AA1141890.770.600.990.04NA rs4902347**GG4565741.00.. 1756 G&amp;gt;AGA or AA1141880.780.601.000.05NAGPX3rs3828599CC3404091.00.. 1580 C-&amp;gt;TCT2142980.850.681.07 TT29660.520.330.830.010.01 rs736775CC2372821.00 9133 C-&amp;gt;TCT2753540.910.721.15 TT701380.590.420.830.010.01 rs8177447CC4135001.00 7241 C-&amp;gt;TCT1552350.790.621.01 TT14350.480.260.910.020.01* r2 &amp;lt; 0.70, except rs2277502 and rs4902347 (r2 &amp;gt; 0.90)** Dominant model is shown because there were 10 or fewer subjects with the homozygous variant model Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 933.

Meta‐Analysis of Prospective Studies of Red Meat Consumption and Colorectal Cancer

The relationship between red meat consumption and colorectal cancer (CRC) has been the subject of scientific debate. Thus, to estimate the summary association between red meat intake and CRC and to examine heterogeneity, a meta‐analysis of prospective studies was conducted. Thirty‐four prospective studies of red meat and CRC were identified, of which, 24 represented independent non‐overlapping study populations. Random effects meta‐analysis models were utilized to calculate summary relative risk estimates (SRREs) for high vs. low intake and dose‐response relationships. In the high vs. low intake meta‐analysis of all studies, the SRRE was 1.13 (95% CI: 1.04–1.23), although there was significant heterogeneity (p = 0.016). Summary associations were modified by tumor site and gender. The SRREs for colon cancer and rectal cancer were 1.11 (95% CI: 1.03–1.19) and 1.19 (95% CI: 0.97–1.46), respectively. The SRREs among men and women were 1.21 (95% CI: 1.04–1.42) and 1.01 (95% CI: 0.87–1.17), respectively. The available epidemiologic data are not sufficient to support an independent positive association between red meat intake and CRC. This conclusion is based upon summary associations that are weak in magnitude, heterogeneity between available studies, inconsistent patterns of associations across the sub‐groups analyses, and the likely influence of confounding by other dietary and lifestyle factors.

Partially Hydrolyzed 100% Whey Protein Infant Formula and Reduced Risk of Atopic Dermatitis: A Meta‐analysis

A reduced risk of atopic dermatitis (AD) among healthy infants who received 100% whey protein partially hydrolyzed formula (PHF-W) compared with intact protein cow's milk formula (CMF), has been reported in several studies. To validate these observations and estimate the magnitude of this potential association with greater statistical precision, we conducted a meta-analysis of clinical trial and intervention studies. A total of 18 articles representing 12 independent study populations met our inclusion criteria. A statistically significant 44% (summary relative risk estimate [SRRE] = 0.56, 95% confidence interval 0.40-0.77) reduced risk of atopic manifestations, which included AD, was found among infants receiving PHF-W compared with infants receiving CMF. In a subanalysis of 4 studies that reported results specifically for AD and that were considered of superior methodological quality, the incidence of AD was reduced by 55% (SRRE = 0.45, 95% confidence interval 0.30-0.70). Regardless of study design, infant population, follow-up time, or study location, individual study findings were consistent because a reduced incidence of AD was reported in all of the reviewed studies. Exclusive breast-feeding should be encouraged as the standard for infant nutrition in the first months of life. For infants who are not exclusively breast-fed, feeding with PHF-W instead of CMF reduces the risk of AD in infants, particularly in infants with a family history of allergy.

Association of JAG1 with Bone Mineral Density and Osteoporotic Fractures: A Genome-wide Association Study and Follow-up Replication Studies

Bone mineral density (BMD), a diagnostic parameter for osteoporosis and a clinical predictor of fracture, is a polygenic trait with high heritability. To identify genetic variants that influence BMD in different ethnic groups, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) on 800 unrelated Southern Chinese women with extreme BMD and carried out follow-up replication studies in six independent study populations of European descent and Asian populations including 18,098 subjects. In the meta-analysis, rs2273061 of the Jagged1 (JAG1) gene was associated with high BMD (p = 5.27 x 10(-8) for lumbar spine [LS] and p = 4.15 x 10(-5) for femoral neck [FN], n = 18,898). This SNP was further found to be associated with the low risk of osteoporotic fracture (p = 0.009, OR = 0.7, 95% CI 0.57-0.93, n = 1881). Region-wide and haplotype analysis showed that the strongest association evidence was from the linkage disequilibrium block 5, which included rs2273061 of the JAG1 gene (p = 8.52 x 10(-9) for LS and 3.47 x 10(-5) at FN). To assess the function of identified variants, an electrophoretic mobility shift assay demonstrated the binding of c-Myc to the "G" but not "A" allele of rs2273061. A mRNA expression study in both human bone-derived cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells confirmed association of the high BMD-related allele G of rs2273061 with higher JAG1 expression. Our results identify the JAG1 gene as a candidate for BMD regulation in different ethnic groups, and it is a potential key factor for fracture pathogenesis.

Inherited genetic variant predisposes to aggressive but not indolent prostate cancer

Autopsy studies suggest that most aging men will develop lesions that, if detected clinically, would be diagnosed as prostate cancer (PCa). Most of these cancers are indolent and remain localized; however, a subset of PCa is aggressive and accounts for more than 27,000 deaths in the United States annually. Identification of factors specifically associated with risk for more aggressive PCa is urgently needed to reduce overdiagnosis and overtreatment of this common disease. To search for such factors, we compared the frequencies of SNPs among PCa patients who were defined as having either more aggressive or less aggressive disease in four populations examined in the Genetic Markers of Susceptibility (CGEMS) study performed by the National Cancer Institute. SNPs showing possible associations with disease severity were further evaluated in an additional three independent study populations from the United States and Sweden. In total, we studied 4,829 and 12,205 patients with more and less aggressive disease, respectively. We found that the frequency of the TT genotype of SNP rs4054823 at 17p12 was consistently higher among patients with more aggressive compared with less aggressive disease in each of the seven populations studied, with an overall P value of 2.1 x 10(-8) under a recessive model, exceeding the conservative genome-wide significance level. The difference in frequency was largest between patients with high-grade, non-organ-confined disease compared with those with low-grade, organ-confined disease. This study demonstrates that inherited variants predisposing to aggressive but not indolent PCa exist in the genome, and suggests that the clinical potential of such variants as potential early markers for risk of aggressive PCa should be evaluated.

Gene-Gene Interactions in the Folate Metabolic Pathway and the Risk of Conotruncal Heart Defects

Conotruncal and related heart defects (CTRD) are common, complex malformations. Although there are few established risk factors, there is evidence that genetic variation in the folate metabolic pathway influences CTRD risk. This study was undertaken to assess the association between inherited (i.e., case) and maternal gene-gene interactions in this pathway and the risk of CTRD. Case-parent triads (n = 727), ascertained from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, were genotyped for ten functional variants of nine folate metabolic genes. Analyses of inherited genotypes were consistent with the previously reported association between MTHFR A1298C and CTRD (adjusted P = .02), but provided no evidence that CTRD was associated with inherited gene-gene interactions. Analyses of the maternal genotypes provided evidence of a MTHFR C677T/CBS 844ins68 interaction and CTRD risk (unadjusted P = .02). This association is consistent with the effects of this genotype combination on folate-homocysteine biochemistry but remains to be confirmed in independent study populations.

Myeloperoxidase genotypes and enhanced efficacy of chemotherapy for early-stage breast cancer in SWOG-8897.

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) generates reactive oxygen species and also activates xenobiotics. In a rigorous clinical trial (Southwest Oncology Group SWOG-8897), we examined relationships between genotypes and disease-free survival (DFS) among women treated for breast cancer, as well as those who did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy. Patients were assigned to risk groups according to standard prognostic features; the low-risk group (n = 753 genotyped) received follow-up only, and the high-risk group (n = 401 genotyped) was randomly assigned to adjuvant cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, and fluorouracil (CMF) or cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and fluorouracil (CAF), with or without tamoxifen. DNA from archived normal lymph node tissue was genotyped, and Cox proportional hazard models were used to calculate DFS associated with MPO genotypes. Among women in the treatment arm, those with MPO G alleles had more than a two-fold reduction in hazard of recurrence (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] for GA genotypes, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.21 to 0.99; HR for GG genotypes, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.21 to 0.77). Effects were greatest among women who were further randomly assigned to tamoxifen (HR for GA genotypes, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.12 to 0.69; HR for GG genotypes, 0.19; 95% CI, 0.08 to 0.45). There were no significant associations between genotypes and DFS among women in the untreated arm, and relationships between genotypes and DFS did not differ by CAF or CMF. These results, observed in two independent study populations, indicate that high-activity MPO genotypes are associated with better survival among women receiving cyclophosphamide-containing therapy, particularly when followed by tamoxifen therapy. MPO can be inhibited and/or upregulated by commonly used drugs; thus, our findings merit further investigation for optimization of therapeutics for breast cancer.

Genetic evidence for a role of adiponutrin in the metabolism of apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins

Adiponutrin (PNPLA3) is a predominantly liver-expressed transmembrane protein with phospholipase activity that is regulated by fasting and feeding. Recent genome-wide association studies identified PNPLA3 to be associated with hepatic fat content and liver function, thus pointing to a possible involvement in the hepatic lipoprotein metabolism. The aim of this study was to examine the association between two common variants in the adiponutrin gene and parameters of lipoprotein metabolism in 23,274 participants from eight independent West-Eurasian study populations including six population-based studies [Bruneck (n = 800), KORA S3/F3 (n = 1644), KORA S4/F4 (n = 1814), CoLaus (n = 5435), SHIP (n = 4012), Rotterdam (n = 5967)], the SAPHIR Study as a healthy working population (n = 1738) and the Utah Obesity Case-Control Study including a group of 1037 severely obese individuals (average BMI 46 kg/m2) and 827 controls from the same geographical region of Utah. We observed a strong additive association of a common non-synonymous variant within adiponutrin (rs738409) with age-, gender-, and alanine-aminotransferase-adjusted lipoprotein concentrations: each copy of the minor allele decreased levels of total cholesterol on average by 2.43 mg/dl (P = 8.87 x 10(-7)), non-HDL cholesterol levels by 2.35 mg/dl (P = 2.27 x 10(-6)) and LDL cholesterol levels by 1.48 mg/dl (P = 7.99 x 10(-4)). These associations remained significant after correction for multiple testing. We did not observe clear evidence for associations with HDL cholesterol or triglyceride concentrations. In conclusion, our study suggests that adiponutrin is involved in the metabolism of apoB-containing lipoproteins.

Polymorphisms in the FGF2 Gene and Risk of Serous Ovarian Cancer: Results From the Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2 (basic) is a potent angiogenic molecule involved in tumor progression, and is one of several growth factors with a central role in ovarian carcinogenesis. We hypothesized that common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the FGF2 gene may alter angiogenic potential and thereby susceptibility to ovarian cancer. We analyzed 25 FGF2 tgSNPs using five independent study populations from the United States and Australia. Analysis was restricted to non-Hispanic White women with serous ovarian carcinoma (1269 cases and 2829 controls). There were no statistically significant associations between any FGF2 SNPs and ovarian cancer risk. There were two nominally statistically significant associations between heterozygosity for two FGF2 SNPs (rs308379 and rs308447; p < .05) and serous ovarian cancer risk in the combined dataset, but rare homozygous estimates did not achieve statistical significance, nor were they consistent with the log additive model of inheritance. Overall genetic variation in FGF2 does not appear to play a role in susceptibility to ovarian cancer.