Genetic Association Of Vitamin D Receptor (Rs731236) Gene Polymorphism With Susceptibility To Oral Cancer In The South Indian Population – A Case-Control Study

Abstract

Background: Oral cancer poses a significant public health challenge, particularly in regions with high tobacco and betel quid consumption. Despite advances in treatment, prognosis remains poor due to late-stage diagnosis and multifactorial etiology. Recent research suggests a potential role for vitamin D and its receptor (VDR) in cancer prevention and treatment.

Aim: To determine the genetic association of the VDR (rs731236) polymorphism with susceptibility to oral cancer in the South Indian population.

Materials and Methods: A case-control study was conducted with 50 participants (25 cases with oral squamous cell carcinoma [OSCC] and 25 controls). Genomic DNA was isolated from peripheral blood leukocytes, and genotyping of the VDR (rs731236) polymorphism was performed using PCR-ARMS method. Statistical analysis was conducted to assess genotype frequencies, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, and association with oral cancer susceptibility.

Results: Demographic characteristics of participants were similar between cases and controls. Genotype frequencies of the VDR (rs731236) polymorphism were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and did not differ significantly between cases and controls. Allele frequencies were comparable to those reported in other populations. There was no significant association between the VDR (rs731236) polymorphism and oral cancer susceptibility in the South Indian population.

Conclusion: This study found no significant genetic association between the VDR (rs731236) polymorphism and susceptibility to oral cancer in the South Indian population. Further research with larger sample sizes and diverse populations is warranted to clarify the relationship between VDR polymorphisms and oral cancer risk, which is essential for the development of effective prevention and treatment strategies.