Update meta-analysis on MMP-7 -181A>G polymorphism and cancer risk: evidence from 25 studies.

BACKGROUND The matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) can degrade various components of the extracellular matrix and its functional genetic polymorphism may be associated with cancer development. The common MMP-7 (-181A>G) genetic polymorphism has been reported to be functional and may contribute to genetic susceptibility to cancers. However, the association between MMP-7 (-181A>G) and cancer risk remains inconclusive. METHODS To better understand the role of MMP-7 (-181A>G) polymorphism in global cancer, we conducted this comprehensive meta-analysis encompassing 6392 cases and 7665 controls. RESULTS Overall, the MMP-7 (-181A>G) polymorphism was associated with higher cancer risk. In the stratified analyses, significant associations were found between the MMP-7 (-181A>G) polymorphism and gastric cancer, ESCC and gynecologic cancer. We also observed that the GG genotype might modulate colorectal cancer risk comparing with the AA genotype (OR=1.31[1.02-1.69]). Moreover, a significantly increased cancer risk was found among Asian populations. When stratified by study design, significantly elevated susceptibility to cancer was found among population-based studies. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggested that the MMP-7 (-181A>G) genetic polymorphism may contribute to the susceptibility of cancers, especially among Asian population.