ABSTRACT

Introduction: The enzyme methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is the major regulator of homocysteine (HCY) levels in humans. Three missense mutations have a significant impact on the activity of this enzyme. Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the association between  HCY and MTHFR mutations in ovarian cancer. Materials and Methods: A cohort of 64 females suffering from ovarian cancer was investigated for resistin, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), vitamin C (Vit. C) and HCY. MTHFR mutations were included in the study. Results: A significant increase in resistin and MDA while a significant decrease in GSH, Vit. C and HCY were detected in ovarian cancer patients. Also, a significant association between homocysteine and MTHFR was also observed in these patients. Interestingly, the results showed a correlation between ovarian cancer risk and MTHFR. Conclusion:  MTHFR mutations were found to be associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer in Mosul, Iraq.