Glutathione-s-transferases GSTM1 and GSTT1 genetic polymorphisms and colorectal cancer onset in a sample of Tunisian population

Individual susceptibility to colorectal cancer (CRC) may be partly due to genetic differences in detoxification and/or activation of xenobiotics. This study was carried out pointing GSTT1 and GSTM1 polymorphisms on the risk of CRC development. Taking into account the important impact of diet in CRC development and prevention, this study explored the correlation of certain foods (fast food, fish, salami, red meat and poultry) with CRC occurrence. Ninety-one patients and 127 controls from the Tunisian population, all from the Sahel region, were enrolled in this study. No association between the GSTM1 gene polymorphism and the CRC was found. However, an association between the GSTT1 gene polymorphism and the risk of CRC was encountered (P=0.039, OR=0.53, CI: 0.29-0.97). Our results revealed a significant correlation between fast food consumption and CRC occurrence (P=0.00015; correlation coefficient = 0.258), whereas fish consumption was inversely correlated to CRC incidence (P=0.049; correlation coefficient = -0.136). In conclusion, the homozygous null GSTT1 gene may be considered as a protective factor CRC onset. Unlike fast food consumption, fish consumption appeared to be a protector factor. (C) 2012 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.