MTHFR and acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Genetic polymorphisms result from common, often benign mutations; however, some are considered markers of susceptibility to certain multifactorial conditions. This is the case for 5,10-methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR); a key enzyme in folate metabolism. Its role in the risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia(ALL); the most common form of pediatric cancers; has generated significant interest. Thus, our research work focused on exploring, through an updated meta-analysis, the involvement of MTHFR polymorphisms in susceptibility to FAL. It is possible that MTHFR variants contribute only modestly to the emergence of LAL, but it is also possible that their interactions with other factors could elucidate the cause of this complex pathology. Thus, analysis of these polymorphisms will promote nutrigenetics as long as the gene complexity and metabolic activities of MTHFR are taken into consideration.