Mannan-binding lectin (MBL) polymorphism and gastric cancer risk in Japanese population

Background: Mannan-binding lectin (MBL) is believed to be an important constituent of the innate immune system. It has been reported that the codon 54 G/A polymorphism of exon-1 affects the MBL2 gene and alters its activity. Aims: We investigated the association between polymorphism of the MBL2 gene and gastric cancer risk as well as Helicobacter pylori infection in a Japanese population. Methods: The study cohort comprised 388 gastric cancer patients and 144 healthy volunteers. Polymorphism at codon 54 of exon 1 of the MBL2 gene was investigated by PCR-based restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. Results: There was no significant difference in the distribution of the MBL2 genotype among the gastric cancer patients and healthy controls. However, the carrier of the A allele was more prevalent among patients with a more advanced stage gastric cancer [odds ratio (OR) 1.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.05-2.67; P = 0.03] and also had an increased risk of gastric cancer among patients 65 years of age or younger (OR = 1.6, 95%CI = 1.01-2.52, <0.05). Conclusion: The codon 54 polymorphism of the MBL2 gene is associated with more advanced phenotypes of gastric cancer and the risk of gastric cancer in Japanese patients 65 years of age or younger.