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Published on: June 26, 2020
Evolution of hepatitis C virus infection under host factor influence in an ethnically complex population
Jeny R Cursino-Santos1, Eduardo A Donadi, Ana L C Martinelli
1Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil. jenyrcs@rge.fmrp.usp.br
Summary
Human leucocyte antigen (HLA) genes influence hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection outcomes. Specific HLA alleles, DRB1*01 and DQB1*03, are linked to spontaneous viral clearance in diverse populations.
Area of Science:
- Immunogenetics
- Virology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Ethnic diversity complicates understanding host genetic factors in hepatitis C virus (HCV) disease progression.
- Identifying specific host genetic markers is crucial for defining HCV infection outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association of human leucocyte antigen (HLA) molecules with HCV susceptibility, viral clearance, and chronic infection in a multi-ethnic Brazilian population.
- To explore the role of HLA alleles in HCV pathogenesis and disease course.
Main Methods:
- Genotyping of human leucocyte antigen (HLA) alleles was performed in 104 HCV-antibody-positive patients and 166 healthy controls.
- Patients were stratified based on spontaneous viral clearance or chronic HCV infection status.
Main Results:
- Significant associations were found between HCV susceptibility and HLA-DRB3 and HLA-DQB1*02.
- The alleles HLA-DRB1*01 and HLA-DQB1*03 were strongly associated with spontaneous viral clearance.
- No influence of epidemiology or viral genotype on disease course was observed.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms the association of HLA-DRB1*01 and HLA-DQB1*03 with viral clearance in an admixed population, consistent with findings in homogeneous groups.
- These findings enhance understanding of HCV-host interactions and may inform the development of therapeutic vaccines.
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