The XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphism influences glioma risk - a meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND Findings from previous published studies regarding the association of the XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphism with glioma susceptibility have often been conflicting. Therefore, a meta-analysis including all available publications was carried out to make a more precise estimation of the potential relationship. METHODS By searching the electronic databases of Pubmed and Embase (up to April 1st, 2013), a total of nine case-control studies with 3,752 cases and 4,849 controls could be identified for inclusion in the current meta-analysis. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the strength of the association. RESULTS This meta-analysis showed the XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphism to be significantly associated with decreased glioma risk in the allelic model (Met allele vs. Thr allele: OR= 0.708, 95%CI= 0.631-0.795). Moreover, we also observed a statistically significant association between the XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphism and reduced glioma risk in analyses stratified by ethnicity (Asian) and source of controls (hospital based) in the allelic model. CONCLUSIONS Current evidence suggests that the XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphism may be a risk factor for glioma development, especially in Asians.