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MX2

Interferons and Virus Defense Mechanisms in Melanoma (MX2)

Written by Jasmine Foster, BSc, BEd on January 4th, 2021
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MX2 normally helps defend the body against viral infection. Can poor regulation of this gene increase the risk of melanoma? Find out here.

Summary

MX2 encodes MX dynamin like GTPase 2 or myxovirus resistance-2. Variants of MX2 may play a role in melanoma by altering the rate of growth and development of melanoma cells. Lifestyle, diet, and supplement modifications may counteract the effects of these variants by regulating MX2 expression.

MX2 and Melanoma

The MX2 gene encodes MX dynamin like GTPase 2 (also known as myxovirus resistance-2), a protein that helps defend the body against infection by HIV and other similar viruses [R, R].

Interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) is an immune response protein that recognizes viral infections and triggers an appropriate response. When IFN-alpha recognizes HIV (or other closely related viruses), it activates MX2. Researchers believe that MX2 then attacks the virus by either disrupting its genetic code or preventing it from inserting viral proteins into human cells [R].

More recently, MX2 has been implicated in cutaneous melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer [R, R].

The relationship between MX2 and melanoma appears complex. In most experimental melanomas, the most dangerous types of cells expressed lower levels of MX2. Furthermore, patients with high MX2 in their melanomas are more likely to live for longer. However, in some melanoma cells, the opposite is true. In both cases, researchers believe that MX2 is involved with the growth and division of the melanoma cells [R].

Interferons may be deficient in melanoma, and some researchers have even suggested directly administering interferons in melanoma patients [R, R].

According to one study, genetic variants that increase MX2 expression were associated with higher rates of melanoma development. This study further reinforces the complex relationship between this gene and melanoma [R].

The MX2 gene normally helps defend the body against viral infection. This gene has a complex relationship with melanoma; both high and low levels have been associated with poor prognosis in different studies.

Your MX2 Results for Melanoma

SNP Table

variant genotype frequency risk allele
rs45430

 

MX2 rs45430 [R, R, R]

  • ‘T’ = Associated with relatively higher rates of melanoma
  • ‘C’ = Possibly protective against melanoma
  • The ‘C’ allele may increase MX2 expression and allow melanoma cells to grow and divide uncontrolled [R, R].

 

Recommendations

Limit Alcohol Intake

According to one study, people who chronically drink a lot of alcohol have different MX2 gene expression than those who do not regularly drink [R].

Meta-analyses of 20 studies have associated moderate alcohol consumption with a slight increase (7-18%) in the overall incidence of melanoma. A study of 1374 cases found that alcohol specifically increased the risk of melanoma in sites with low exposure to sunlight (such as the trunk) [R, R, R].

Chronically drinking alcohol may change MX2 gene expression and increase susceptibility to melanomas.

Vitamin B9/Folate

Some studies suggest that vitamin B9 (folate) regulates the expression of MX2 [R].

Supplementation with a combination of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), B9 (folic acid), and B12 (cobalamin) was associated with a reduced incidence of melanoma in 3 studies of over 119,000 people [R, R, R].

To avoid deficiency, the National Institutes of Health recommends a daily intake of at least 400 mcg of bioavailable folate. The foods richest in naturally occurring folate include liver, spinach, black-eyed peas, and green vegetables. Many foods are fortified with folic acid, but the most bioavailable supplemental form is methylfolate [R].

Folate may regulate MX2 gene expression and reduce incidence of melanoma.

CoQ10

People who are deficient in CoQ10 may express MX2 differently compared to those with normal CoQ10 levels [R].

Low blood levels of coenzyme Q10 have been associated with melanoma incidence and progression [R].

In a small uncontrolled study of people with early-stage melanoma, supplementation with coenzyme Q10 (400 mg/day) as an add-on to interferon for 3 years reduced the rates of recurrence without causing adverse effects [R].

People with CoQ10 deficiency may have altered MX2 gene expression and may be more likely to develop melanomas.

Author photo
Jasmine Foster
BSc, BEd

Jasmine received her BS from McGill University and her BEd from Vancouver Island University.

Jasmine loves helping people understand their brains and bodies, a passion that grew out of her dual background in biology and education. From the chem lab to the classroom, everyone has the right to learn and make informed decisions about their health.

Disclaimer

The information on this website has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration or any other official medical body. This information is presented for educational purposes only, and may not be used to diagnose or treat any illness or disease.

Also keep in mind that the “Risk Score” presented in this post is based only on a select number of SNPs, and therefore only represents a small portion of your total risk as an individual. Furthermore, these analyses are based primarily on associational studies, which do not necessarily imply causation. Finally, many other (non-genetic) factors can also play a significant role in the development of a disease or health condition — therefore, carrying any of the risk-associated genotypes discussed in this post does not necessarily mean you are at increased risk of developing a major health condition.

Always consult your doctor before acting on any information or recommendations discussed in this post — especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have been officially diagnosed with a medical condition.

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