Correlation between TLR4 gene polymorphism and severe enterovirus 71 infection

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Genetics
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Enterovirus 71 (EV71) infection poses a significant threat to children, causing severe illness and death.
• Genetic factors, including immune response deficiencies and cytokine predispositions, are implicated in EV71 infection severity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) gene polymorphisms and the clinical severity of EV71 infection in Chinese children.

Main Methods:

• TLR4 gene polymorphisms were identified using improved multiplex ligation detection reaction technology.
• TLR4 expression levels were quantified via Real-Time reverse transcriptase PCR and flow cytometry.
• Plasma concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Main Results:

• The rs10759932 CC genotype and C allele of TLR4 were more prevalent in children with severe EV71 infection compared to those with mild infection.
• Elevated levels of TLR4, serum TNF-α, and IL-6 were observed in patients with the rs10759932 CC genotype.

Conclusions:

• The rs10759932 polymorphism within the TLR4 gene is associated with EV71 infection severity.
• The C allele of rs10759932 may represent a genetic risk factor for severe EV71 infection in the pediatric population in China.