Meta-analysis of TCF7L2 and SLC30A8 gene polymorphisms concerning type 2 diabetes risk - The Egyptian Journal of Internal Medicine

Background Diabetes, defined by high blood glucose readings, poses important worldwide health risks. T2DM is the most prevalent form, accounting for 90% of cases. Genetic variations in genes like SLC30 A8 (rs13266634) and TCF7L2 (rs7903146 and rs12255372) have been linked to T2DM, although their precise role is not fully understood. Understanding the genetic factors associated with T2DM is essential for developing effective prevention and management strategies. Methods A meta-analysis was conducted using Embase, Google Scholar, and PubMed databases to find relevant studies investigating the relationship between SLC30A8 and TCF7L2 gene variations and T2DM. Inclusion criteria included case–control studies providing genotypic and allele frequency data with consistent 95% confidence intervals and p-values. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale assessed study quality. Statistical analyses included assessing heterogeneity, calculating odds ratios, and evaluating publication bias. Results The meta-analysis included studies on SLC30 A8 rs13266634 and TCF7L2 rs7903146 and rs12255372 variations. For SLC30 A8 rs13266634, a substantial relationship with T2DM was found in the recessive (OR = 0.83, 95% CI [0.71–0.98], p = 0.03), while other models did not show significant associations. TCF7L2 rs7903146 and rs12255372 demonstrated substantial associations with T2DM across all genetic models, with varying odds ratios and confidence intervals. Conclusion This meta-analysis underscores the complex genetic factors involved in T2DM, particularly highlighting the significant associations between TCF7L2 rs7903146 and rs12255372 variations and T2DM susceptibility. SLC30 A8 rs13266634 showed a significant association only in the recessive model. More research is needed to understand molecular mechanisms and implications for T2DM prevention and treatment.