Correlation between hepatitis B genotypes, 1896 precore mutation, virus loads and liver dysfunction in an Indian...

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Virology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes exhibit varying pathogenicity.
• The interaction between HBV genotypes, mutations, and viral loads is not fully understood.
• Investigating these factors is crucial for understanding HBV-related liver disease progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the association between HBV genotype, the 1896 precore mutation, and HBV viral loads.
• To determine the correlation between these viral characteristics and liver disease markers like ALT levels.

Main Methods:

• Recruitment of 116 HBV DNA-seropositive patients and 107 HBV DNA-seropositive blood donors.
• Stratification of subjects into groups with normal (Group I) and elevated (Group II) ALT levels.
• Determination of HBV genotype, 1896 precore mutation presence, and plasma HBV DNA levels.

Main Results:

• Genotype C was significantly more prevalent in patients with elevated ALT (Group II) compared to those with normal ALT (Group I).
• No correlation was found between the 1896 precore mutation and HBV DNA levels.
• Subjects infected with genotype C exhibited higher HBV DNA levels than those with genotypes A or D.

Conclusions:

• HBV genotype, specifically genotype C, correlates with higher viral loads and elevated ALT levels, suggesting increased pathogenicity.
• The 1896 precore mutation does not appear to be a significant factor in determining HBV viral load.
• Genotype C's association with higher virus loads and liver enzyme elevation warrants further investigation into its clinical significance.