Abstract
The aim of this study was to associate FGFR4 rs1966265 and rs351855 variants with colorectal cancer (CRC) in a Mexican population and to perform in silico analysis. Genomic DNA from 412 healthy individuals and 475 CRC patients was analyzed. In silico analysis was performed using the PolyPhen-V2, GEPIA, GTEx, and Cytoscape platforms. The GA genotype dominant model (GAAA) of rs1966265 and the AA genotype dominant and recessive models of rs351855 were identified as CRC risk factors (p < 0.05). CRC patients aged ≥ 50 years at diagnosis who consumed alcohol had a higher incidence of the rs351855 GA genotype than the control group (p < 0.05). Associations were observed between the rs1966265 GA genotype and patients with rectal cancer and stage III-IV disease. The rs351855 AA genotype was a risk factor for partial chemotherapy response, and the GA + AA genotype for age ≥ 50 years at diagnosis and rectal cancer was associated with a partial response to chemotherapy (p < 0.05). The AA haplotype was associated with increased susceptibility to CRC. In silico analysis indicated that the rs351855 variant is likely pathogenic (score = 0.998). Genotypic expression analysis in blood samples showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). EFNA4, SLC3A2, and HNF1A share signaling pathways with FGFR4. Therefore, rs1966265 and rs351855 may be potential CRC risk factors.