The Contribution of Matrix Metalloproteinase-8 Promoter Polymorphism to Oral Cancer Susceptibility

Background/Aim: Metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of multifunctional proteins reported to be overexpressed in several types of cancers. However, the contribution of MMP8 genotype to oral cancer has not been elucidated. In this study, we focused on the contribution of polymorphisms in the promoter region of MMP-8 (C-799T) and two non-synonymous polymorphisms (Val436Ala and Lys460Thr) to Taiwanese oral cancer. Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, MMP-8 genotype, was examined among 788 patients with oral cancer and 956 gender- and age-matched healthy controls regarding its potential to determine oral cancer risk. Results: The distributions of MMP-8 C-799T, Val436Ala and Lys460Thr genotypes were not different between the oral cancer and non-cancer control groups. We also analyzed the allelic frequency distributions and no significant difference was found. As for gene-environment interaction analysis, there was an increased risk for smokers, alcohol drinkers or betel quid chewers with variant MMP-8 C-799T or Val436Ala genotypes. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the polymorphisms at MMP-8 C-799T or Val436Ala may not play a major role in mediating personal risk of oral cancer; however, the detailed mechanisms require further investigation.