Complement protein levels and MBL2 polymorphisms are associated with dengue and disease severity

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Genetics
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• The complement system plays a potential role in dengue virus infection and severe dengue progression.
• Understanding genetic factors and complement protein alterations is crucial for dengue pathogenesis research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association of MBL2 genetic variants and serum MBL levels with dengue in Vietnamese patients.
• To analyze the levels of various complement proteins in dengue patients and their correlation with clinical parameters.

Main Methods:

• Genotyping of MBL2 polymorphisms (e.g., -550L/H, codon 54) and diplotypes/haplotypes.
• Quantification of serum MBL and complement factors (C2, C5, C5a, C9, factor D, factor I, C4b).
• Statistical analysis to correlate genetic variants and protein levels with dengue status and clinical markers (AST, ALT, WBC, platelet counts).

Main Results:

• Specific MBL2 genotypes, diplotypes, and haplotypes were associated with dengue in the Vietnamese population.
• Elevated levels of complement factors C2, C5, and C5a, and decreased factor D were observed in dengue patients.
• Complement factor levels (C2, C5a, C9, factor D) showed significant correlations with liver enzymes (AST, ALT), WBC counts, and platelet counts.

Conclusions:

• MBL2 polymorphisms are significantly associated with dengue susceptibility in the Vietnamese population.
• Complement protein levels (C2, C4b, C5, C5a, C9, factor D, factor I) are modulated during the clinical course of dengue.
• These findings highlight the involvement of the complement system and MBL2 genetics in dengue pathogenesis and severity.