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

• MMP-7 (− 181A>G) polymorphism is a cancer risk for Asian population.
• MMP-7 (− 181A>G) is highly related to ESCC, gastric and gynecologic cancer.
• Elevated susceptibility to cancer was found among population-based studies.

BackgroundThe 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.MethodsTo 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.ResultsOverall, 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.ConclusionsThese findings suggested that the MMP-7 (− 181A>G) genetic polymorphism may contribute to the susceptibility of cancers, especially among Asian population.