Human genetic factors in tuberculosis: an update

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in developing nations.
• Host genetic variability influences susceptibility, resistance, and disease progression in Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections.
• Previous research has identified numerous genetic factors associated with TB.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated review of human genetic factors influencing TB.
• To summarize recent findings from candidate gene and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on TB.
• To consolidate knowledge on gene polymorphisms and their association with TB susceptibility/resistance.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of MEDLINE and PubMed databases.
• Inclusion of articles published from January 1, 2014, to March 31, 2017.
• Review of relevant cited articles, abstracts, and meeting reports using keywords like 'tuberculosis', 'human genetics', 'GWAS', and 'Mycobacterium tuberculosis'.

Main Results:

• Identified numerous human gene polymorphisms associated with TB susceptibility and resistance.
• Highlighted the ongoing contribution of genetic variability to host-pathogen interactions in TB.
• Synthesized findings from recent candidate gene and GWAS studies.

Conclusions:

• Human genetic variability is crucial in determining TB outcomes.
• Ongoing research continues to uncover specific genetic markers for TB susceptibility and resistance.
• Understanding these genetic factors is vital for developing new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for TB.