Methionine synthase A2756G transition might be a risk factor for male infertility: Evidences from seven case-control studies

Mol Cell Endocrinol. 2016 Apr 15:425:1-10. doi: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.02.012. Epub 2016 Feb 22.

Abstract

Methionine synthase (MTR) has a crucial role in DNA synthesis and methylation reactions. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of the MTR-A2756G polymorphism with idiopathic male infertility. Blood samples were collected from 217 idiopathic infertile- and 233 healthy-men, and MTR-A2756G genotyping was performed by PCR-RFLP. Meta-analysis was conducted by pooling our data with the data obtained from 6 previous studies. Also, the effects of this substitution on protein structure were evaluated by bioinformatics tools. Our study revealed the association of AG-genotype, GG-genotype, and G-allele with male infertility. Meta-analysis showed a significant association between A2756G transition and male infertility. In addition, structural analysis of the transition effect on protein revealed a significant influence on MTR function (with score: 38; expected accuracy: 66%). These findings suggest that the A2756G substitution might be a genetic risk factor and a potential biomarker for idiopathic male infertility.

Keywords: Bioinformatics; MTR gene; Male infertility; Meta-analysis; Polymorphism.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis

MeSH terms

  • 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate-Homocysteine S-Methyltransferase / genetics*
  • Adult
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Male / genetics*
  • Male
  • Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide*
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate-Homocysteine S-Methyltransferase
  • MTR protein, human