Abstract
Background: The active form of Vitamin D is thought to be protective against breast cancer. The activity of this steroid hormone is mediated mainly through the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR).
Aim of Study: The aim of the current study was to assess the possible association between serum Vitamin D level together with Apa1 receptor polymorphism and breast cancer.
Patients and Methods: This study was conducted at Clinical Oncology and Clinical Pathology Departments, Menoufia University. A total of 114 participants were included. Vitamin D levels and Apa1 polymorphism were assessed in both patients and healthy controls.
Results: Mean serum Vitamin D levels were significantly higher among normal controls compared to cancer patients (31.54±4.57 versus 14.12±1.43) respectively (p-value <0.001). In relation to Apa1 gene polymorphism the serum Vitamin D levels were significantly associated with AA and AC genotypes (p-value <0.001) and both of these genotypes were prevalent in breast cancer compared to CC genotype. Low Vitamin D levels and AC genotypes were significantly related to Her 2 positive disease.
Conclusion: Testing the effect of varying genotypes and Vitamin D levels on the function of the VDR could help to improve future testing and treatment of woman at risk for breast cancer.