Cytokine gene polymorphisms among North Indians: Implications for genetic predisposition?

Variations in the production and activity of cytokines influence the susceptibility and/or resistance to various infectious agents, autoimmune diseases, as well as the post-transplant engraftment/ rejection. Differences in the production of cytokines between individuals have been correlated to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter, coding or non-coding regions of cytokine genes. The present study aimed at understanding distribution of cytokine gene variants among HIV seropositive subjects including HIV + TB+ subjects of Indian origin. Our findings indicate significant association of pro-inflammatory (IL2, IFN-γ, TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory cytokine gene variants (IL4, IL10) with the risk to acquire the HIV infection and development of AIDS related illness in Indian population. Since distribution of genetic polymorphisms varies significantly across different populations, different genotypes might exhibit different disease-modifying effects. An understanding of the immunogenetic factors or AIDS restriction genes is important not only for elucidating the mechanisms of disease pathogenesis but also for vaccine design and its application.