Individual effects of GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms on the risk of polycystic ovarian syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis

This study aimed to understand the relationship between two specific genetic variations (GSTT1 and GSTM1 polymorphisms) and the risk of developing polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a common endocrinologic disorder that affects women. Oxidative stress may play a significant role in the development of PCOS. Certain enzymes, such as glutathione S-transferases, help protect cells against oxidative stress. However, previous research on the correlation between these specific genetic variations and PCOS risk has produced inconsistent findings. To address this, a meta-analysis was conducted to examine the potential impact of these genetic variations on PCOS. We conducted a thorough search of the Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases to find studies that met our criteria. We used fixed-effects or random-effects models to determine the pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the GSTT1 and GSTM1 polymorphisms related to PCOS. We also performed subgroup analyses based on ethnicity, mean age of participants, and PCOS diagnostic protocols. After screening, we found five studies with 1.607 participants (872 in the PCOS group and 735 in the control group) to be suitable for our meta-analysis. Our analysis showed that GSTM1 and GSTT1 null genotypes were not linked to an increased risk of PCOS (OR: 0.925, 95% CI: 0.755-1.134; OR: 1.175, 95% CI: 0.614-2.247 respectively). Additionally, both Begg’s and Egger’s tests revealed no publishing bias. This meta-analysis confirmed that there is no association between GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms and an increased risk of PCOS. However, further studies are required to validate this conclusion.