Genetic variability of the human SRD5A2 gene: implications for prostate cancer risk.

Reichardt, J K; Makridakis, N; Henderson, B E; Yu, M C; Pike, M C; Ross, R K · Cancer Res · 1995

cross_sectional · Level IV

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Abstract

Elevated dihydrotestosterone levels have been suggested to increase the risk of prostate cancer. The human SRD5A2 gene encodes the type II steroid 5 alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone to the more bioactive compound dihydrotestosterone. We have determined the distribution of a dinucleotide repeat in low-risk Asian-Americans, high-risk African-Americans, and intermediate-risk non-Hispanic Whites. We found this marker to be more polymorphic than previously reported, with some alleles being specific to African-Americans. Genetic variants of the SRD5A2 gene may play a role in predisposition to prostate cancer and in explaining the substantial racial/ethnic variability in risk.

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