Arg188His polymorphism in the XRCC2 gene and the risk of ovarian cancer: a meta-analysis.

Numerous studies have evaluated the association between the Arg188His polymorphism of the X-ray repair cross-complementing group 2 (XRCC2) gene and ovarian cancer risk. However, the specific association is still controversial. This meta-analysis was therefore designed to clarify these controversies. Relevant case-control studies were enrolled in the meta-analysis. Quality evaluation of the included studies was conducted by two physicians. Statistical analyses were carried out using the Stata 12.0 software for meta-analysis. Analyses of sensitivity and publication bias were also conducted. Overall, a significant association was found between the Arg188His polymorphism and ovarian cancer risk when all studies were pooled into the meta-analysis (Arg/Arg vs His/His: OR = 1.85, 95%CI = 1.15-3.00; Arg/Arg vs Arg/His: OR = 1.17, 95%CI = 1.03-1.32; dominant model: OR = 0.84, 95%CI = 0.74-0.95; recessive model: OR = 1.69, 95%CI = 1.05-2.70). This meta-analysis suggested that the XRCC2 Arg188His polymorphism was associated with the risk of ovarian cancer. Further large and well-designed studies are needed to confirm these conclusions.