The contribution of XRCC1 gene variants (rs1799782, rs25489, and rs25487) to risk of gastric and colorectal cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

[BACKGROUND] The XRCC1 protein, a key player in the mammalian DNA repair system, has been reported to be involved in carcinogenesis of human cancers. rs1799782, rs25489, and rs25487 in XRCC1 gene have been extensively examined for their effects on the susceptibility of gastric cancer (GC) and colorectal cancer (CRC), but no conclusion has been reached yet. Therefore, a comprehensive meta-analysis enrolling all eligible studies was conducted to provide an accurate and precise estimation of the association between these three XRCC1 gene variants and GC/CRC risk.

[METHODS] Up to May 2025, 92 related studies were finally included in this meta-analysis. The association was assessed by the pooled odds ratios. Publication bias, sensitivity analysis, and trial sequential analysis were applied to examine the reliability of statistical results.

[RESULTS] The rs1799782 was significant involved in the development of GC and CRC in total, Asian and Chinese population. The rs25487 was significant associated with the risk of GC and CRC in total and Asian population. However, no association between rs25489 and GC/CRC risk was identified.

[CONCLUSION] The rs1799782 and rs25487 may serve as the susceptible loci in the pathogenesis of GC and CRC, which is warranted to be confirmed in future studies.