[Correlations between genetic polymorphism of IFN-λ family gene and HBV infection, virus replication and clearance]

Kexi Zheng1, A-Mei Zhang1

  • 1Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, Yunnan, China.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is one of the most serious public health problems. HBV infection could lead to hepatitis B, and even further develop into hepatic cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Interferon lambda (IFN-λ) is a member of the interferon (IFN) family and an important cytokine for antiviral defense. There are four members in IFN-λ family, including IFN-λ1, IFN-λ2, IFN-λ3, and IFN-λ4. The genetic polymorphisms in the IFN-λ genes are associated with HBV replication and treatment response of HBV patients. In this review, we summarized the roles of genetic polymorphisms of the IFN-λ genes played in HBV infection, disease progression and treatment, with the aim to better understand their function. This review could serve as a reference for the HBV prevention and treatment of HBV patients, as well as for future clinical usage.