Genet Mol Res
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Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) is a critical enzyme to detoxify the carcinogenic catechol estrogen and the Val158Met polymorphism of COMT could influence its enzymatic activity. Recent epidemiological studies have investigated the correlation of COMT Val158Met polymorphism with endometrial cancer risk; however, the results are inconsistent. To better evaluate the role of COMT Val158Met in endometrial carcinogenesis, we performed this meta-analysis, considering menopausal status, study quality, ethnicity, and source of controls. ⋯ However, no evidence of association was noted in different ethnic groups and sources of controls. In conclusion, our results suggested that the COMT Val/Val genotype might act as a potential endometrial cancer risk factor in postmenopausal women. Further studies are needed to investigate the interactions between COMT Val158Met polymorphism and endometrial cancer in a specific population.