Distribution of EGFR R521K Polymorphism in Different Iranian Ethnic Groups

Background The R521K polymorphism of EGFR has attenuated function in ligand binding, tyrosine kinase activation, and growth stimulation. Objectives We initiated a study to examine R521K polymorphism in six Iranian ethnic groups. Patients and Methods This cohort study was designed on 300 Iranian healthy individuals and analyzed by PCR-RFLP protocol. Results The frequencies of A/A, G/A, G/G genotype were 7.7%, 53.6% and 38.7% respectively. Conclusions No subject with A/A genotype was detected in Kurds and Lures. The higher frequencies of A/A genotype in Arab and Caspian groups compared to Fars and Turks could be a key determinant of better response to anticancer drugs and favorable prognosis of CRC patients.