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Research: MÉPLAN and HESKETH,
Listed in Issue 241
Abstract
MÉPLAN and HESKETH, (1)Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences and Human Nutrition Research Centre, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK, Catherine.Meplan@newcastle.ac.uk review the functional significance of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in selenoprotein genes and the evidence as to whether or not they influence risk of colorectal, prostate, lung or breast cancers.
Background
Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient that is incorporated into selenoproteins. Although epidemiological studies suggest that low Se intake is associated with increased risk of various cancers, the results of supplementation trials have been confusing. These conflicting results may be due to different baseline Se status and/or genetic factors. In addition, mechanistic links between Se intake, selenoproteins and carcinogenesis are not clear.
Methodology
In this article, the authors discuss the functional significance of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in selenoprotein genes and the evidence as to whether or not they influence risk of colorectal, prostate, lung or breast cancers.
Results
Both in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that a small number of SNPs in genes encoding glutathione peroxidases 1 and 4, selenoprotein P, selenoprotein S and 15-kDa selenoprotein have functional consequences. Data from case-control studies suggest that a variant at codon 198 in glutathione peroxidase 1 influences the effect of Se status on prostate cancer and risk, and it has also been associated with breast cancer and lung cancer risk, whereas variants in glutathione peroxidase 4, selenoprotein P and selenoprotein S may influence the risk of colorectal cancer. In addition, the results of gene microarray (transcriptomic) studies have identified novel selenoprotein biomarkers of Se status and novel downstream Se-targeted pathways.
Conclusion
The work highlights the need to take baseline Se status and genetic factors into account in the design of future intervention trials.
References
Méplan C(1), Hesketh J. Selenium and cancer: a story that should not be forgotten-insights from genomics. Cancer Treat Res. 159:145-66. doi: 10.1007/978-3-642-38007-5_9. 2014.
