p53 codon 72 polymorphism and coronary artery disease: Evidence of interaction with ACP1

BACKGROUND: Common biological features between cancer and atherosclerosis suggest possible association of p53 with atherosclerotic diseases, but data on such a relationship are controversial, suggesting interactions with other variables. Acid phosphatase locus 1 (ACPACP₁) is a polymorphic gene that controls the synthesis of an enzyme involved in important metabolic functions. Since ACPACP₁ is associated with coronary artery disease (CAD), we searched for possible interactions between this enzyme and p53 codon 72 polymorphism with regard to their effects on susceptibility to CAD. MATERIAL/METHODS: The study included 381 patients admitted to the hospital for cardiovascular disease (232 patients with CAD and 149 with other cardiovascular problems) and 97 healthy newborns. RESULTS: The proportion of subjects carrying the *Pro allele of p53 codon 72 and the high activity *B*C genotype of ACPACP₁ is higher in CAD (10.3%) than in non-CAD patients (2.0%) and in healthy newborns (6.2%). CONCLUSIONS: The data suggest an interaction between p53 codon 72 and ACPACP₁ wherein a positive effect of the p53 *Pro allele on susceptibility to CAD occurs, but only in the presence of the ACPACP₁ genotype characterized by high enzymatic activity.