Association of the Transcription Factor 7 Like 2 (TCF7L2) Polymorphism With Diabetic Nephropathy Risk

It is assumed that genetic factors may participate in the development of diabetic nephropathy (DN). The association between TCF7L2 gene polymorphism and DN risk is still unclear. To evaluate the relationship, we performed this meta-analysis. Eligible relevant studies were searched and selected from PubMed, Embase, and ISI Web of Science. Summary effect estimates were derived using a random effects model, with attention to study quality and publication bias. Ethnical approval was not necessary, because this meta-analysis was based on published articles, and did not involve patient consent. A total of 7 studies were identified. Analysis of all studies indicated significant association between TCF7L2 gene polymorphism and DN risk (odds ratio [OR] = 1.31, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.10-1.56, Pheterogeneity < 0.00001, P = 0.002). Subgroup analysis showed similar results in Asian (OR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.10-1.62, Pheterogeneity = 0.03, P = 0.004), in Caucasian (OR = 2.27, 95% CI = 1.78-2.90, Pheterogeneity = 0.17, P < 0.00001), in rs7903146 mutation (OR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.25-2.07, Pheterogeneity < 0.00001, P = 0.0002), However, no association was observed in Negroid (OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 0.90-1.35, Pheterogeneity < 00001, P = 0.36). Our results suggest that TCF7L2 gene polymorphism may contribute to the risk of DN. However, more studies should be launched in the future.