Objective: To explore the possible association of polymorphisms of glutathione S-transferases T1, M1 genes and leukemia susceptibility.
Methods: AS-PCR procedure was applied to determine the GSTs genotypes in a group of leukemia patients (n=61) in Shanghai area. The genotype frequencies in the leukemia patients and normal controls (183 healthy residents in the same city) were compared. Stratification with leukemia types, age and gender was made for further comparison.
Results: The frequencies of GSTT1 0/0 genotype and GSTT1 0/0-GSTM1 0/0 combined genotype were higher in leukemia patients than in controls, and the differences were significant. When stratified with age and gender, this trend still existed in the male ALL patients and in younger ALL patients (age < or = 30).
Conclusion: Individuals who bear GSTT1 0/0 genotype or GSTT1 0/0-GSTM1 0/0 combined genotypes are more susceptible to leukemia, especially for male and younger carriers.