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Fibrosis severity and mannan-binding lectin (MBL)/MBL-associated serine protease 1 (MASP-1) complex in HCV-infected

Sherif A El Saadany1, Dina H Ziada, Wael Farrag

  • 1Departments of Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt. elsadany@gmail.com

Arab Journal of Gastroenterology : the Official Publication of the Pan-Arab Association of Gastroenterology
|June 21, 2011
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mannan-binding lectin (MBL) and its MBL/MASP-1 complex are elevated in chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Higher MBL/MASP-1 complex activity correlates with severe liver fibrosis, suggesting a role in HCV pathogenesis and inflammation.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Hepatology
  • Virology

Background:

  • Mannan-binding lectin (MBL) is a key component of the innate immune system, recognizing microbial glycans and activating complement.
  • MBL's role in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is under investigation, with previous studies examining MBL levels and polymorphisms in relation to disease progression and treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between MBL activity, MBL/MASP-1 complex activity, and the severity of chronic HCV infection.
  • To assess the association of MBL and MBL/MASP-1 complex activity with liver fibrosis and overall HCV disease outcome.

Main Methods:

  • Serum MBL levels and MBL/MASP-1 complex activity were measured in 80 chronic HCV patients and 20 healthy controls.
  • Patients were categorized into mild (Ishak 0-1) and severe (Ishak 5-6) hepatic fibrosis groups based on liver biopsy.
  • MBL/MASP-1 complex activity was analyzed at baseline and at 3 and 6 months.

Main Results:

  • Serum MBL and MBL/MASP-1 complex activity were significantly higher in HCV patients compared to controls.
  • A strong correlation was observed between MBL/MASP-1 complex activity and the severity of liver fibrosis (P=0.003).
  • MBL/MASP-1 complex activity showed a more significant association with severe fibrosis than MBL concentration alone.

Conclusions:

  • MBL and MBL/MASP-1 complex activity are crucial in the host's initial defense against HCV infection.
  • These components likely play a broader role beyond direct infection control, acting as key regulators of inflammation in chronic HCV.
  • Findings suggest MBL/MASP-1 complex activity as a potential biomarker for liver fibrosis severity in HCV.

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