Influence of transforming growth factor-beta 1 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha genes polymorphisms on the development of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis C patients

Background: Host genetic factors may affect clinical outcomes of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection; however, the possible mechanisms remain largely unknown. This study aimed to evaluate transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1)-509 and tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-alpha)-308 genes polymorphisms as a risk factors for cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in chronic hepatitis C patients. Materials and methods: Two hundred and eighty HCV patients (152 patients with cirrhosis, 128 patients with HCC) and 160 controls were enrolled in the study. Polymorphisms of TGF-beta 1-509 and TNF-alpha-308 gene were determined using polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Serum TGF-beta 1 and TNF-alpha were determined using ELISA. Results: TGF-1 beta-509 TT, TNF-alpha-308 AA and GA genotypes frequencies were significantly increased in cirrhotic and HCC groups. Serum TGF-beta 1 and TNF-alpha level were significantly increased in TGF-beta 1-509 IT and TNF-alpha-308 M genotypes respectively. Conclusion: TGF-beta 1-509 and INF-alpha-308 genes polymorphisms are associated with risk of liver cirrhosis and HCC in patients with chronic HCV infection. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.