A functional polymorphism in the promoter region of leptin gene increases susceptibility for non-small cell lung cancer

Leptin hormone and receptor have been associated to cancer development and were identified in lung tissue. In this study, a functional polymorphism in the S' flanking region of the leptin gene (LEP-2548G/A) was found to increase susceptibility for non-small cell lung cancer [odds ratio (OR), 1.97; 95% confidence interval (Cl), 1.13-3.43]. Age-adjusted logistic regression analysis in men indicated an association of AA genotype with adenocarcinoma (OR, 4.29; CI, 1.64-11.72) and squamous cell carcinoma (OR, 3.19; Cl, 1.26-8.13). Logistic regression analysis confirmed the AA genotype as an independent risk factor for lung cancer after adjustment for age and gender (OR, 2.57; CI, 1.34-4.92). The AA genotype was overrepresented only in patients with non-metastatic disease (OR, 1.86; Cl, 1.13-3.04). Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated an earlier age of onset for lung cancer in AA carriers (P = 0.023). Results suggest the existence of genetic susceptibility for lung cancer in carriers of this LEP functional polymorphism. Further studies are warranted to extend knowledge of leptin involvement in lung cancer. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.