Comprehensive assessment of the association of WNK4 polymorphisms with hypertension: evidence from a meta-analysis

Sci Rep. 2014 Sep 30:4:6507. doi: 10.1038/srep06507.

Abstract

The relationship between with-no-lysine [K] kinase 4 (WNK4) gene polymorphisms and hypertension has been widely investigated, However, the studies yielded contradictory results. To evaluate these inconclusive findings comprehensively, we therefore performed a meta-analysis. Ten articles encompassing 16 independent case-control studies with 6089 hypertensive cases and 4881 normotensive controls were selected for this meta-analysis. Four WNK4 gene polymorphisms were identified (G1155942T, G1156666A, T1155547C, and C6749T). The results showed statistically significant associations of G1155942T polymorphism (allelic genetic model: odds ration or OR = 1.62, 95% confidence interval or CI: 1.11-2.38, P = 0.01; dominant model: OR = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.07-3.19, P = 0.03) and C6749T polymorphism (allele contrast: OR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.60-2.59, P<0.01; dominant model: OR = 2.04, 95%CI: 1.59-2.62, P<0.01; and homozygous model: OR = 5.01, 95% CI: 1.29-19.54, P = 0.02) with hypertension risk. However, neither C1155547T nor G1156666A was associated significantly with hypertension susceptibility. In conclusion, this meta-analysis suggested that WNK4 G1155942T and C6749T gene polymorphisms may contribute to the susceptibility and development of hypertension. Further well-designed studies with larger sample size are required to elucidate the association of WNK4 gene multiple polymorphisms with hypertension risk.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alleles
  • Asian People
  • Blood Pressure / genetics*
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Genetic Association Studies
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease*
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / genetics*
  • Hypertension / pathology
  • Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide / genetics
  • Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases / genetics*
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases
  • WNK4 protein, human