Effect of cytokine genotypes on the hepatitis B virus-hepatocellular carcinoma association

Low-Carbohydrate Diet Score and Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Findings from a Prospective Cohort Study

Limited data are reported on the association between low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) score, a comprehensive measure of dietary pattern according to sources of carbohydrate, fat, and protein, and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We evaluated this score with HCC risk in the Singapore Chinese Health Study, a prospective cohort of 63,275 middle-aged and elderly Chinese living in Singapore and recruited during 1993-1998 period. LCD scores were derived from the semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire at baseline. A nested case-control study involved 197 HCC cases and 465 controls was also constructed among 28,346 participants who provided blood samples. Cox proportional hazard regression method was used to calculate HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for HCC with different levels of LCD scores. Conditional logistic regression was performed for the case-control study analysis. After 17.6 years of follow-up with 819,573 person-years, 561 participants developed primary HCC. Although there was a null association between total LCD score and HCC risk (HRper-SD increment = 1.07; 95% CI, 0.98-1.16; Ptrend = 0.06), there was a positive association between animal-based LCD and the risk of HCC (HRper-SD increment = 1.11; 95% CI, 1.02-1.21; Ptrend = 0.01). Furthermore, this association was present in both HBsAg-negative and HBsAg-positive individuals in the case-control study. In stratified analysis for the entire cohort, this positive association was only present in those who consumed alcoholic beverages monthly or less frequent but not in weekly or daily drinker (Pinteraction = 0.79). In summary, a diet with lower carbohydrate, higher animal fat and protein was significantly associated with higher risk of HCC among Chinese Singaporeans.

PREVENTION RELEVANCE

In a large cohort study of more than 63,000 Chinese Singaporeans, we found that a diet with lower carbohydrate and higher animal fat and protein was associated with increased risk of HCC, suggesting that dietary modification could be an effective strategy in primary prevention to reduce the HCC burden.

ABO Blood Group and the Risk and Prognosis of Lymphoma

ABO blood group antigens exhibit alternative phenotypes and genetically derived structures that are located on the red cell surface. The role of ABO blood group in cancer biology has been intensely reported by several studies, and it is now widely recognized that ABO antigens are associated with the risk and prognosis of several types of tumors, namely gastric cancer and pancreatic cancer. However, there have been contentious limited issues with the association between the ABO blood group and lymphoma. In this narrative review, based on literature data, we discuss the role of ABO blood group in the risk and prognosis of lymphoma and summarize the current knowledge of the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of the association. The possible association of ABO blood group with racial disparities and pathological classification in lymphoma patients is also discussed.

Many Ways to Communicate-Crosstalk between the HBV-Infected Cell and Its Environment

Chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) affects an estimated 257 million people worldwide and can lead to liver diseases such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Viral replication is generally considered not to be cytopathic, and although some HBV proteins may have direct carcinogenic effects, the majority of HBV infection-related disease is related to chronic inflammation resulting from disrupted antiviral responses and aberrant innate immune reactions. Like all cells, healthy and HBV-infected cells communicate with each other, as well as with other cell types, such as innate and adaptive immune cells. They do so by both interacting directly and by secreting factors into their environment. Such factors may be small molecules, such as metabolites, single viral proteins or host proteins, but can also be more complex, such as virions, protein complexes, and extracellular vesicles. The latter are small, membrane-enclosed vesicles that are exchanged between cells, and have recently gained a lot of attention for their potential to mediate complex communication and their potential for therapeutic repurposing. Here, we review how HBV infection affects the communication between HBV-infected cells and cells in their environment. We discuss the impact of these interactions on viral persistence in chronic infection, as well as their relation to HBV infection-related pathology.

Disparity of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Tumor Microenvironment-Related Genes and Infiltrating Immune Cells between Asian and Non-Asian Populations

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common cause of primary liver cancer deaths worldwide. The major risk factors for liver cancer development are cirrhosis, hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, and chronic alcohol abuse. HCC displays heterogeneity in terms of biology, etiology, and epidemiology. In Southeast Asia and Africa, chronic HBV infection is a major risk factor for HCC, whereas chronic HCV infection is a risk factor for HCC in western countries and Japan. Environmental and genetic conditions also play a role in the regional and temporal variations in the incidence of HCC. In this study, we used the ESTIMATE (ESTIMATE, Estimation of stromal and immune cells in malignant tumor tissues using expression data) algorithm and the CIBERSOFT tool to analyze gene expression profiles and infiltrating immune cells in HCC between Asian and non-Asian patients. The results showed that stromal and immune scores were dependent on overall survival (OS) in non-Asian patients but not in Asian patients. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed four differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that were significantly associated with OS in non-Asian patients only. CIBERSORT (CIBERSORT, Cell type identification by estimating relative subsets of known RNA transcripts) analysis indicated that the composition of infiltrating immune cells was significantly different between Asian and non-Asian patients. By parsing the subclasses of HCC, the ability to predict prognosis and guide therapeutic targets for potentially actionable HCC may be improved.

Association of interleukin-18 genotypes (-607C > A) and (-137 G > C) with the hepatitis B virus disease progression to hepatocellular carcinoma

Chronic infection with HBV has been reported to be associated with the development of HCC. The inflammation mounted by cytokine-mediated immune system plays an important role in the pathogenesis of HBV-associated HCC. IL-18 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine whose role in the development of HBV-associated chronic to malignant disease state has not been much studied. The present study was conceived to determine the role of genetic polymorphisms in IL-18, serum levels of IL-18, and expression level of its signal transducers in the HBV disease progression. A total of 403 subjects were enrolled for this study including 102 healthy subjects and 301 patients with HBV infection in different diseased categories. Polymorphism was determined using PCR-RFLP. Genotypic distributions between the groups were compared using odd's ratio and 95% CI were calculated to express the relative risk. Circulating IL-18 levels were determined by ELISA. Expression levels of pSTAT-1 and pNFƙB was determined by western blotting. In case of IL-18(- 607C > A), the heterozygous genotype (CA) was found to be a protective factor while in case of IL-18(- 137G > C) the heterozygous genotype (GC) acted as a risk factor for disease progression from HBV to HCC. Moreover, serum IL-18 levels were significantly increased during HBV disease progression to HCC as compared to controls. Also the levels of activated signal transducers (pSTAT-1 and pNF-κB) of IL-18 in stimulated PBMCs were significantly increased during HBV to HCC disease progression. These findings suggest that IL-18 has the potential to act as a biomarker of HBV-related disease progression to HCC.

Composite Score of Healthy Lifestyle Factors and Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Findings from a Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

While the associations between individual lifestyle factors and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been described previously, their combined impact on HCC risk is unknown.

METHODS

The association of a composite score of healthy lifestyle factors, including body mass index, alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, alternative Mediterranean diet, and sleep duration, and HCC risk was examined in the Singapore Chinese Health Study, an ongoing prospective cohort study of 63,257 Chinese men and women. Cox proportional hazard regression method was used to estimate HR and its 95% confidence interval (CI). Conditional logistic regression method was used to evaluate this composite lifestyle score-HCC risk association among a subset of individuals who tested negative for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-hepatitis C antibody.

RESULTS

After a mean follow-up of 17.7 years, 561 participants developed HCC. Individuals with higher composite scores representing healthier lifestyles (range 0-8) were at significantly lower risk of HCC. Compared with the lowest composite score category (0-4), the HRs (95% CIs) for the composite scores of 5, 6, 7, and 8 were 0.67 (0.62-0.85), 0.61 (0.48-0.77), 0.49 (0.37-0.65), and 0.13 (0.06-0.30), respectively (P trend < 0.0001). A similar inverse association was observed in participants with negative HBsAg and anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV)-negative serology (HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.19-0.79; for the highest vs. the lowest category of the composite scores; P trend = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Healthy lifestyles protect against HCC development, especially for individuals without hepatitis B virus and HCV infections.

IMPACT

This study highlights the importance of a comprehensive lifestyle modification strategy for HCC primary prevention.

Associations between hepatocellular carcinoma risk and rs3212227 and rs568408 polymorphisms: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Interleukin-12 (IL-12) is considered to be a risk factor for cancer; however, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unknown. This study aimed to explore the impacts of the IL-12 rs3212227 and rs568408 gene polymorphisms on HCC.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Chinese Knowledge Infrastructure databases for studies on the associations between HCC and IL-12 rs568408 and rs3212227 polymorphisms published prior to 1 May 2020. The effects of the polymorphisms on HCC susceptibility were presented as odds ratios (ORs) and associated 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Seven studies were ultimately included, including 2375 cases and 3445 controls. The rs3212227 polymorphism was significantly associated with the risk of HCC in both the dominant model (CC+AC vs. AA, OR=1.22) and the allele model (C vs. A, OR=1.12). Combined analysis of rs568408 yielded a significant relative risk for HCC in the dominant (AA+AG vs. GG, OR=1.13), recessive (AA vs. AG+GG, OR=1.72), allele (A vs. G, OR=1.29), heterozygote (AG vs. GG, OR=1.27), and homozygote models (AA vs. GG, OR 1.17).

Conclusion

The IL-12 rs3212227 and rs568408 gene polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk of HCC.

Association between Dietary Tomato Intake and the Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: The Singapore Chinese Health Study

BACKGROUND

Intake of tomato and/or lycopene has been associated with reduced risk of several cancers, but there is no report on the association with risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

The associations of tomato and lycopene consumption with risk of HCC were examined in the Singapore Chinese Health Study, a prospective cohort of 63,257 Chinese ages 45 to 74 years at enrollment. Diet was assessed using a validated semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to estimate HR and its 95% confidence interval (CI) of HCC with the consumption of tomato and lycopene among all cohort participants, and unconditional logistic regression was used to assess the association by hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positivity in a nested case-control study.

RESULTS

After a mean follow-up of 17.6 years, 561 incident HCC cases were identified. Higher tomato intake was associated with lower risk of HCC after adjustment for potential confounders (P _trend < 0.001). Compared with the lowest quartile, HRs (95% CIs) of HCC for the second, third, and fourth quartile of tomato intake were 0.70 (0.56-0.88), 0.73 (0.58-0.92), and 0.63 (0.49-0.81). Among HBsAg-negative individuals, the inverse association remained (P _trend = 0.03). There was no association between lycopene intake and HCC risk (P _trend = 0.54).

CONCLUSIONS

Tomato intake may offer protection against the development of HCC, particularly among individuals without chronic infection with hepatitis B virus.

IMPACT

Tomato intake is a low-cost preventative measure against HCC that may help reduce risk due to increasing rates of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Association between the Interleukin-10 -1082 G/A polymorphism and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Inconsistent results have been reported from studies investigating the relationship of the interleukin-10 (IL-10) -1082 G/A polymorphism and the susceptibility of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Therefore, a thorough literature review of relatedstudies was performed in this meta-analysis to examine the association of the interleukin-10(IL-10) -1082 G/A polymorphism with HCC susceptibility.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched for literature on the relationship between interleukin-10(IL-10) -1082 G/A polymorphism and the risk of HCC in accordance with the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The selected studies were analyzed using the Stata 12.0 software. Finally, the strength of the associations was evaluated using the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

RESULTS

A total of six case-control studies were enrolled into the current meta-analysis, which included a total of 911 patients and 1889 control subjects. Our data revealed no association between the IL-10 -1082 G/A polymorphism and the risk of HCC (GG vs AA:OR=0.84, 95%CI=0.57-1.25; AG vs AA:OR=0.85, 95%CI=0.70-1.05; Dominant model: OR=0.85, 95%CI=0.70-1.03; and Recessive model: OR=0.92, 95%CI = 0.64-1.32). Similarly, no association was found in sub-group analysis based on ethnicity.

CONCLUSION

The results of our study suggest no association between IL-10 -1082 G/A polymorphism and the risk of HCC.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Association between Polymorphisms in Genes of IL-12 Signaling Pathway and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk

We performed an updated meta-analysis and systematic review to explore the associations between polymorphisms in genes of IL-12 signaling pathway and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk. Diverse databases were retrieved to identify entire available studies, and odds ratios (ORs) correspondence with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were performed to assess their associations. Finally, 6 polymorphisms in five genes of the IL-12 signaling pathway were extracted from 39 case-control studies, 26 publications. We identified that STAT4-rs7574865 polymorphism was significantly associated with an increased risk of HCC in allelic contrast, dominant, homozygote and recessive models. However, we failed to uncover any significant association between other polymorphisms in genes of IL-12 signaling pathway and HCC risk, including IL18-rs1946518 and -rs187238, IFN-γ-rs2430561, IL12A-rs568408, IL12B-rs3212227 and STAT4-rs7574865. When the subgroup analysis was conducted based on Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE) status, we identified that IFN-γ-rs2430561 polymorphism was significantly associated with an increased risk of HCC in homozygote and recessive models of these studies whose control groups were conformed to HWE. To sum up, our study suggests that STAT4-rs7574865 is a risk factor for HCC. Further well-designed large sample size studies are warranted to shed new light on these findings.

Role of interleukin-12 gene polymorphisms in the onset risk of cancer: a meta-analysis

Many molecular epidemiologic studies have explored the possible links between interleukin-12 (IL-12) polymorphisms and various cancers. However, results from these studies remain inconsistent. This meta-analysis is aimed to shed light on the associations between three common loci (rs568408, rs2243115, rs3212227) of IL-12 gene and overall cancer risk. Our meta-analysis finally included 33 studies comprising 10,587 cancer cases and 12,040 cancer-free controls. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the cancer risk. We observed a significant association between IL-12B rs3212227 and overall cancer risk, especially in hepatocellular carcinoma, nasopharyngeal cancer, and among Asians. IL-12A polymorphisms (rs2243115 and rs568408) were found no influence on overall cancer risk. Nevertheless, stratification analyses demonstrated that rs568408 polymorphism contributed to increasing cancer risk of Caucasians and cervical cancer. And, rs2243115 may enhance the risk of brain tumor. These findings provided evidence that IL-12 polymorphisms may play a potential role in cancer risk.

ABO blood type and the risk of cancer - Findings from the Shanghai Cohort Study

ABO blood type is an inherited characteristic. The associations between ABO blood type and risk of all cancer and specific cancers were examined in a prospective cohort study of 18,244 Chinese men enrolled in 1986. During the 25 years of follow-up, 3,973 men developed cancer including 964 lung cancers, 624 colorectal cancers, 560 gastric cancers, 353 liver cancers, and 172 urinary bladder cancers. Hazard ratios (HR) for all cancer and specific cancers by ABO blood type were calculated using Cox proportional hazards models. Compared with blood type A, blood type B was associated with statistically significant reduced risk of all cancers (HR, 0.91, 95% CI:0.84, 0.99). Both blood types B and AB were associated with significantly lower risk of gastrointestinal cancer and colorectal cancer, respectively. Blood type B was also associated with significantly lower risk of stomach cancer and bladder cancer, while blood type AB was associated with significantly increased risk of liver cancer. By histological type, blood types B and AB were associated with lower risk of epidermoid carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, but were not associated with risk of sarcoma, lymphoma, leukemia or other cell types of cancer. The findings of this study support a role of genetic traits related to ABO blood type in the development of cancers in the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts.

Functional polymorphisms in the promoter region of miR-17-92 cluster are associated with a decreased risk of colorectal cancer

miR-17-92 cluster is identified as a potential oncogenic miRNA. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of polymorphisms in the promoter region of miR-17-92 cluster with the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). Three polymorphisms (i.e., rs9588884, rs982873 and rs1813389) in the promoter of miR-17-92 were analyzed among 874 cases and 1132 controls using a TaqMan allelic discrimination assay or a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Relative expression of miR-17-92 was examined among CRC tumors and noncancerous tissues using quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. Transcriptional activities were measured using dual-luciferase reporter assay. We found a significantly reduced CRC risk with the rs9588884 (GG vs. CC: adjusted OR = 0.46, 95% CI, 0.35-0.62; dominant model: adjusted OR = 0.72, 95% CI, 0.59-0.86; recessive model: adjusted OR = 0.53, 95% CI, 0.40-0.69) and the rs982873 (CC vs. TT: adjusted OR = 0.60, 95%CI, 0.46-0.80; recessive model: adjusted OR = 0.62, 95% CI, 0.49-0.80). Haplotype analysis showed that the GCG haplotype had a decreased risk for CRC compared to the CTA haplotype (adjusted OR = 0.67, 95% CI, 0.57-0.79). The rs9588884 GG displayed a lower level of miR-20a and the rs982873 CC displayed a lower level of miR-17. Additionally, the rare allele of rs9588884 G and the rs982873 C revealed a reduced luciferase activity. These findings indicate that the rs9588884 GG and the rs982873 CC in the promoter of miR-17-92 may protect against CRC, possibly by decreasing transcriptional activity and eventually resulting in lower levels of miR-20a and miR-17.

Association of three promoter polymorphisms in interleukin-10 gene with cancer susceptibility in the Chinese population: a meta-analysis

Numerous studies have examined the associations of three promoter polymorphisms (-1082A/G, -819T/C and -592A/C) in IL-10 gene with cancer susceptibility in the Chinese population, but the results remain inconclusive. To gain a more precise estimation of this potential association, we conducted the current meta-analysis based on 53 articles, including 26 studies with 4,901 cases and 6,426 controls for the -1082A/G polymorphism, 33 studies with 6,717 cases and 8,550 controls for the -819T/C polymorphism, and 42 studies with 9,934 cases and 13,169 controls for the -592A/C polymorphism. Pooled results indicated that the three promoter polymorphisms in IL-10 gene were significantly associated with an increased overall cancer risk in the Chinese population. Stratification analysis showed that the association was more pronounced for hepatocellular carcinoma and low quality studies for the -1082A/G polymorphism, lung cancer and oral cancer for the -819T/C polymorphism. However, the -592A/C polymorphism was associated with a statistically significant increased risk for lung cancer, oral cancer, hospital-based studies and low quality studies, but a decreased risk for colorectal cancer. We further investigated the significant results using the false-positive report probability (FPRP) test. Interestingly, FPRP test results revealed that only IL-10 -1082A/G polymorphism was truly associated with an increased overall cancer risk. In the subgroup analysis, only the low quality studies, lung cancer and colorectal cancer remained significant at the prior level of 0.1. Although this association needs further confirmation by considering large studies, this meta-analysis suggested an association between IL-10 gene polymorphisms and cancer risk in the Chinese population.

Genetic polymorphisms -137 (rs187238) and -607 (rs1946518) in the interleukin-18 promoter may not be associated with development of hepatocellular carcinoma

This study meta-analyzed the literature on possible association of polymorphisms -137 (rs187238) and -607 (rs1946518) in the interleukin-18 (IL-18) promoter with risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The analysis included 8 case-control studies on the -137 polymorphism (1,318 cases, 2,254 controls) and 7 case-control studies on the -607 polymorphism (1,262 cases, 1,696 controls). None of the five genetic models suggested a significant association between the -137 polymorphism and HCC risk: allelic model, OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.74-1.34, P = 0.97; recessive model, OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.65-1.46, P = 0.91; dominant model, OR 1.35, 95% CI 0.73-2.52, P = 0.34; homozygous model, OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.65-1.49, P = 0.95; heterozygous model, OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.66-1.48, P = 0.94. Similar results were obtained in subgroup analyses of Asian patients, Chinese patients, or patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related HCC. Similar results were also obtained for the -607 polymorphism across the entire study population as well as in the three subgroups. The available evidence suggests no significant association of the -137 or -607 polymorphisms with risk of HCC in general or specifically of HBV-related HCC. These conclusions should be verified in large, well-designed studies.

Aberrant expression of B7‑H4 may contribute to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma

In order to determine the effect of B7‑H4 on the development of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the expression levels of B7‑H4 were evaluated using reverse transcription‑polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometry in HL‑7702 and Huh7 cells. B7‑H4 protein expression levels were analyzed using western blotting and immunohistochemistry in HCC tissues collected from patients and from a mouse tumor model. Soluble B7‑H4 (sB7‑H4), interferon‑γ (IFN‑γ), and interleukin‑4 (IL‑4) in blood serum were assessed using ELISA in patients with HCC and mice injected with tumor cells. B7‑H4 was expressed in HCC cell lines, mouse tumor tissues and HCC patient tissues. However, B7‑H4 was not detected in HL‑7702 cells or normal human liver tissues. The expression level of B7‑H4 was positively correlated with tumor‑node‑metastasis (TNM) stage, lymph node metastasis, and differentiation degree in patients with HCC. sB7‑H4 levels in blood serum samples collected from patients with HCC and tumorigenic mice were higher compared with healthy controls. Expression levels of IFN‑γ were reduced, and IL‑4 levels were increased in blood serum samples of patients with HCC and tumorigenic mice compared with healthy controls. sB7‑H4 expression levels were negatively correlated with IFN‑γ levels, and with the ratio of IFN‑γ to IL‑4. Additionally, sB7‑H4 was positively correlated with IL‑4 levels in mouse tumor tissues, serum samples obtained from tumorigenic mice and human HCC patients. Notably, the levels of sB7‑H4 and IL‑4 were positively correlated and IFN‑γ was negatively correlated with the TNM stage of patients with HCC. In addition, sB7‑H4 and IL‑4 expression levels increased and levels of IFN‑γ and the ratio of IFN‑γ/IL‑4 decreased as a function of time post tumor implantation in the mouse model. The present study determined that aberrant expression of B7‑H4 contributed to HCC development. B7‑H4 may be a potential target for therapy and diagnosis of HCC.

Interferon Gamma Gene Polymorphism (+874 T > A) and Chronic Hepatitis B in the Population of Gorgan, North-Eastern Iran

Background

Based on differences in individual immune responses to the hepatitis B virus (HBV), between 5% and 10% of patients become persistently infected with the virus, which leads to the determination of chronic HBV. Cytokines such as interferon gamma (IFN-γ) are secretory proteins that play important roles in both innate and adaptive immune responses. Functional studies have demonstrated that the IFN + 874A/T gene polymorphism can increase or decrease the overall expression of IFN-gamma (γ) and ultimately determine the outcome of the infection.

Objectives

This study was performed to investigate the relationship between the IFN-γ + 874 gene polymorphism and susceptibility to chronic HBV infection.

Methods

Polymorphism detection analysis was performed on 598 subjects from North-Eastern Iran. The IFN-γ gene polymorphism (+ 874A/T) was genotyped through a specific sequence primer polymerase chain reaction (SSP-PCR).

Results

The frequencies of the AA, AT, and TT genotypes were 31%, 51%, and 18% in the chronic HBV patient group, and 40%, 45%, and 15% in the healthy control group, respectively. However, a lack of association of the + 874 polymorphism in the IFN-γ gene of those with chronic HBV infection was found. Evaluation of HBV association with this polymorphism was significant under the dominant genetic model (P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Ultimately, no association could be characterized between the polymorphism in IFN-γ + 874A/T and susceptibility to chronic HBV infection in this segment of the Iranian population (P > 0.05).

The association of three promoter polymorphisms in interleukin-10 gene with the risk for colorectal cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma: A meta-analysis

Mounting evidence supports a potent inhibitory role of interleukin-10 (IL-10) in tumor carcinogenesis, angiogenesis and metastasis. This meta-analysis was designed to examine the association of three promoter polymorphisms (−592C > A, −819C > T and −1082G > A) in IL-10 gene with the risk for colorectal cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma. Qualification assessment and data collection were completed by two authors independently. The random-effects model using the DerSimonian and Laird method was fitted by the STATA software. Twenty-five articles involving 5933 cases and 9724 controls were meta-analyzed. Overall comparisons of the mutant alleles (−592A, −819T and −1082A) of three promoter polymorphisms with alternative wild alleles failed to reveal any statistical significance for both colorectal cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma (P > 0.05), and the likelihood of heterogeneity was low (I² < 50%). For −592C > A polymorphism, a significant risk for colorectal cancer was identified when analysis was restricted to East Asians (odds ratio or OR = 1.41, 95% confidence interval or CI: 1.18–1.68, P < 0.001) and retrospective studies (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.09–1.39, P = 0.001). As weighed by the Egger’s test and the fill-and-trim method, there was a low probability of publication bias for all studied polymorphisms. Our findings collectively suggest that the −592C > A polymorphism in IL-10 gene might be a susceptibility locus for colorectal cancer in East Asians.

A Causal Role of Genetically Elevated Circulating Interleukin-10 in the Development of Digestive Cancers: Evidence from Mendelian Randomization Analysis Based on 29,307 Subjects

Recent studies have observed a high level of circulating interleukin-10 (IL-10) in patients with digestive cancers, yet whether elevated IL-10 is causally associated with digestive cancers so far remained unresolved. We therefore meta-analyzed available observational studies with Mendelian randomization method to explore this causal association by employing IL-10 gene 3 variants (-592C>A, -819C>T, and -1082A>G) as instruments. Data were available from 52 articles encompassing 29,307 subjects. Subgroup analysis by cancer type indicated that -1082A>G was associated with increased risk of gastric cancer (odds ratio [OR] = 1.19; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05-1.35; P = 0.006), and the association was reinforced for intestinal type gastric cancer (OR = 1.26; 95%CI: 1.09-1.44; P = 0.001). By ethnicity, risk estimate for -1082G allele carriers was increased by 21% for digestive cancers in East Asians (95%CI: 1.05-1.40; P = 0.009). As for the genotype-phenotype association, carriers of -1082G allele had an overall 20.21 pg/mL higher IL-10 level than those with -1082AA genotype (P = 0.023). In further Mendelian randomization analysis, the predicted OR for 10 pg/mL increment in IL-10 was 1.14 (95%CI: 1.01-16.99) in gastric cancer. Our findings provided evidence for a causal role of genetically elevated IL-10 in the development of gastric cancer, especially in East Asians and for intestinal type gastric cancer.

Association between polymorphisms in selected inflammatory response genes and the risk of prostate cancer

Inflammation represents an important event which facilitates prostate carcinogenesis. Genetic variations in inflammatory response genes could affect the level and function of the protein products, resulting in the differential prostate cancer risk among carriers of different variants. This study attempted to investigate the association of IL-4 rs2243250, IL-6 rs10499563, IL-8 rs4073, as well as NFKBIA rs2233406 and rs3138053 polymorphisms with prostate cancer risk in the Chinese population. Genotyping of the polymorphisms was performed by using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism technique on 439 prostate cancer patients and 524 controls, and the association of each polymorphic genotype with prostate cancer risk was evaluated by using logistic regression analysis based on allele, heterozygous, and homozygous comparison models, with adjustment to age and smoking status. We showed that the C allele of IL-4 rs2243250 polymorphism could increase prostate cancer risk (heterozygous comparison model: odds ratio [OR] =1.434, 95% confidence interval [CI] =1.092–1.881, P=0.009; homozygous comparison model: OR =2.301, 95% CI =1.402–3.775, P=0.001; allele comparison model: OR =1.509, 95% CI =1.228–1.853, P<0.001). On the other hand, the C allele of rs10499563 polymorphism could decrease prostate cancer risk (heterozygous comparison model: OR =0.694, 95% CI =0.525–0.918, P=0.010; homozygous comparison model: OR =0.499, 95% CI =0.269–0.926, P=0.028; allele comparison model: OR =0.692, 95% CI =0.553–0.867, P=0.001). No association was observed for the other polymorphisms. In conclusion, IL-4 rs2243250 and IL-6 rs10499563 polymorphisms could serve as potential predictive biomarkers for prostate cancer risk in the Chinese population.

Genetic variants in IL12 influence both hepatitis B virus clearance and HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma development in a Chinese male population

IL12 plays a major role not only in inducing appropriate immune responses against viral infections (including HBV) but also in the antitumor immune response. This study was conducted to investigate the relationships of genetic variants in IL12 with hepatitis B virus (HBV) clearance and development of HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We genotyped three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the IL12A (rs568406 and rs2243115) and IL12B (rs3212227) in 395 HBV-positive HCC patients, 293 persistent HBV carriers and 686 subjects with HBV natural clearance from southern China, using the improved multiplex ligase detection reaction (iMLDR) method. Logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, smoking, and alcohol consumption status showed that rs568408 variant genotypes were significantly associated with host HBV-related HCC risk when compared with persistent HBV carriers, and carriers of the GA + AA genotype decreased the HCC risk in comparison with GG carriers (adjusted OR = 0.53, 95 % CI 0.35-0.80, P = 0.002). No relationships between the rs2243115 and rs3212227 SNPs and HCC risk were observed (all P > 0.05). Besides, rs568408 showed an approaching significant effect on susceptibility to HBV persistent infection (adjusted OR = 1.34, 95 % CI 0.99-1.81, P = 0.057 in dominant genetic models). Furthermore, the TG haplotype was observed to be associated with a significantly increased risk of HBV-related HCC (OR = 1.42, 95 % CI 1.10-1.83, P = 0.006), while TA haplotype was associated with a decreased risk of HBV-related HCC (OR = 0.61, 95 % CI 0.45-0.83, P = 0.002). Our results reveal that the IL12A rs568408 variant may be a marker SNP for risk of both HBV clearance and HBV-related HCC development.

Association between IFN-γ genetic polymorphisms and susceptibility to hepatitis B virus infection: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection has become a global health burden because of its contagious mode of transmission and the resultant long-term liver damage.

AIM

To investigate how the polymorphisms of the IFN-γ gene, particularly the IFN-γ +874T/A (rs2430561) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), influence susceptibility to HBV infection.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Relevant articles were identified by a comprehensive literature search covering the following computerised bibliographic databases. Eleven independent case-control studies were ultimately selected for the current meta-analysis, comprising a total of 1527 HBV cases and 1467 healthy subjects.

RESULTS

The results in the current meta-analysis showed that carriers of the IFN-γ A allele were more likely to develop HBV infection than those without in all five genetic models (all p < 0.05). According to the ethnicity-based sub-group analysis, a significant difference of the IFN-γ rs2430561 T > A polymorphism was detected associated with the increased risk of HBV infection in Asians and European-derived populations in the majority of the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The results implicate a possible relationship between the IFN-γ rs2430561 T > A polymorphism and the risk of HBV infection. Therefore, IFN-γ genetic polymorphisms might be important in determining an individual's susceptibility to HBV infection.

Association Between IL-4 Polymorphisms and Risk of Liver Disease: An Updated Meta-Analysis

Interleukin-4 (IL-4) polymorphisms have been reported to influence an individual's susceptibility to liver disease as it is a central anti-inflammatory Th2 cytokine; however, these results remain controversial.A comprehensive meta-analysis of the relevant literature was thus performed to better estimate the relationship between IL-4 polymorphisms and liver disease.Systematic searches of various databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure) for studies published before July 5, 2015 were performed. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) calculated in fixed or random-effects models were used to estimate the strength of the association. Subgroup analyses, meta-regression, Galbraith plots, and sensitivity analyses were also performed.A total of 16 case-control studies, of which 15 involved the -590C/T polymorphism and 3 involved the -33T/C polymorphism, were included in the study. With respect to the -590C/T polymorphism, a significantly increased risk of liver diseases was found in the overall population (TT + CT vs CC: OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.06-1.49, P = 0.009 and CT vs CC: OR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.00-1.48, P = 0.048) and the Asian population (TT + CT vs CC: OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.04-1.57, P = 0.020). Further subgroup analyses also showed significant associations between the -590C > T polymorphism and the risk of hepatitis C infection and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, no association was found between the -33T/C polymorphism and risk of liver diseases in all comparison models.This meta-analysis suggested that the IL-4 -590C > T polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of hepatitis C infection and hepatocellular carcinoma, especially among the Asian population.

A Functional Polymorphism in the Promoter of MiR-143/145 Is Associated With the Risk of Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Chinese Women: A Case-Control Study

MiR-143/145 is down-regulated in cervical cancer, which may serve as a tumor suppressor by targeting KRAS and Ras-responsive element-binding protein (RREB1). Activated KRAS leads to down-regulation of miR-143/145 transcription in a RREB1-dependent manner, establishing a miR-143/145-KRAS-RREB1 feedback loop. A polymorphism rs4705343C/T in the promoter of miR-143/145 might influence the binding of TATA-binding protein. We hypothesized that the miR-143/145 rs4705343 and KRAS rs712 may be related to the occurrence of cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). In this study, we genotyped the 2 polymorphisms in 415 patients with CSCC and 504 controls using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. The promoter activities were measured by the Dual-Luciferase Reporter Assay System. We found that the rs4705343TC genotype was associated with an increased risk of CSCC (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.37; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-1.80). The significantly increased association was also observed in a dominant genetic model (adjusted OR = 1.32; 95% CI, 1.01-1.72). Combined analysis showed that individuals carrying the genotypes of rs4705343 TC/CC and rs712GT/TT had a 1.47-fold increased risk of CSCC (adjusted OR = 1.47; 95% CI, 1.01-2.15). By using multifactor dimensionality reduction software method, we identified a significant interaction between the miR-143/145 rs4705343 and KRAS rs712. Dual-Luciferase Reporter Assay showed that the luciferase activity was significantly lower in cells transfected with the rs4705343C allele than that of the rs4705343T allele. These findings indicate that miR-143/145 rs4705343 and KRAS rs712 may contribute to the etiology of CSCC in Chinese women.

Interaction analysis of IL-12A and IL-12B polymorphisms with the risk of colorectal cancer

IL-12 is an antitumor cytokine with functions of inhibiting tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis, indicating that IL-12 is a promising candidate for cancer treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of IL-12A rs568408, IL-12A rs2243115, and IL-12B rs3212227 with the susceptibility to colorectal cancer (CRC). Two hundred and fifty-seven histopathologically confirmed CRC patients and 236 age- and gender-matched controls were enrolled. The three polymorphisms were genotyped using a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism assay. We found that the IL-12A rs568408 AG/AA genotypes were associated with an increased risk of CRC with an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 1.66 (95 % confidence interval (CI), 1.11-2.48). Stratified analyses showed that patients carrying the IL-12B rs3212227AC/CC genotypes had a 1.97-fold increased risk of tumor metastasis (OR = 1.97; 95 % CI, 1.04-3.70). Gene-gene interaction analysis showed that subjects carrying the IL-12A rs568408AG/AA and IL-12B rs3212227AA genotypes had a 2.40-fold increased risk of CRC (OR = 2.40; 95 % CI, 1.14-5.07) and individuals carrying the IL-12A rs568408AG/AA and IL-12B rs3212227AC/CC genotypes had a 1.93-fold increased risk of CRC (OR = 1.93; 95 % CI, 1.10-3.41). These findings indicate that IL-12A rs568408 and IL-12B rs3212227 may be related to the development of CRC.

Th1/Th2 cytokines and their genotypes as predictors of hepatitis B virus related hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the predominant type of primary liver cancer, is one of the most serious life-threatening malignancies, worldwide. In majority of the cases, HCC develops after prolonged and persistent chronic liver disease. hepatitis B virus (HBV) or HCV infection is prominent etiological factors, attributing to this condition. It has been well documented that HBV, being the inducer of chronic inflammation, is the main causative agent in causing HCC, particularly in Asian countries. The HBV infection leads to a wide range of clinical symptoms from carrier state to malignancy. Cytokines being immune-modulatory molecules, are the key mediators in the defense mechanism against viral infection. In this regard, this review will detail the substantial role of key Th1: interleukin 1 (IL-1), IL-2, IL-12, tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-γ; Th2: IL-4, IL-10 and non Th1/Th2: IL-6, transforming growth factor-β1 cytokines genotypes in analyzing the variability in the clinical manifestations in an HBV-afflicted individual, which might finally, culminates into HCC. Since cytokine production is regulated genetically, the cytokine promoter region single-nucleotide polymorphisms induced changes, greatly affects the cytokine production, thus resulting into differential outcome of immune balance.

Combined effects of six cytokine gene polymorphisms and SNP-SNP interactions on hepatocellular carcinoma risk in Southern Guangxi, China

Cytokine gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are involved in the genesis and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We hypothesized that combined effects of cytokine gene SNPs and SNP-SNP interactions are associated with HCC risk. Six SNPs in cytokine genes (IL-2, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10) were genotyped in a study of 720 Chinese HCC cases and 784 cancer-free controls. Although none of these SNPs individually had a significant effect on the risk of HCC, we found that the combined effects of these six SNPs may contribute to HCC risk (OR=1.821, 95% CI=1.078-3.075). This risk was pronounced among smokers, drinkers, and hepatitis B virus carriers. A SNP-SNP interaction between IL-2-330 and IFN-γ-1615 was associated with an increased HCC risk (OR=1.078, 95% CI=1.022-1.136). In conclusion, combined effects of SNPs and SNP-SNP interactions in cytokine genes may contribute to HCC risk.

Interferon-γ +874A/T polymorphism and hepatocellular carcinoma risk: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Studies have evaluated the association between interferon-γ (IFN-γ) +874A/T polymorphism and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk, but the results are controversial. We performed this meta-analysis to further investigate this association.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Relevant studies were searched by using the PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the strength of the association. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were conducted.

RESULTS

Seven case-control studies (859 HCC patients and 1482 healthy controls) were identified to assess the association between IFN-γ +874A/T polymorphism and risk of HCC. IFN-γ +874A/T polymorphism was significantly associated with an increased risk of HCC (OR=1.38; 95% CI 1.12-1.70; P=0.002). In the subgroup analysis by ethnicity, IFN-γ +874A/T polymorphism was significantly associated with HCC risk in Asians (OR=1.42; 95% CI 1.08-1.87; P=0.01), but no significant association was found in Caucasians (OR=1.21; 95% CI 0.86-1.70; P=0.28). IFN-γ +874A/T polymorphism also increased HBV-induced HCC risk (OR=1.42; 95% CI 1.08-1.87; P=0.01). In the subgroup analysis by control source, IFN-γ +874A/T polymorphism was associated with HCC risk in hospital-based studies (OR=1.45; 95% CI 1.09-1.53; P=0.01). A marginal association was found in population-based studies (OR=1.33; 95% CI 0.97-1.83; P=0.08).

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis indicates that the IFN-γ +874A/T polymorphism might contribute to HCC risk.

Relationships between interleukin-12B and interleukin-10 gene polymorphisms and hepatitis C in Chinese Han hemodialysis patients

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) commonly causes a chronic infection but portion of hemodialysis patients are able to resistant to HCV infection, even clear the virus naturally. Interleukin-10 (IL-10) and interleukin-12 (IL-12) are crucial regulators of the immune response to T-helper 1 (Th1) or T-helper 2 (Th2) categories and play a role in autoimmune and infectious diseases. This study was undertaken to investigate the possible association of genetic polymorphisms of 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) of the IL-12B (-1188) and IL-10 (-592 and -819) and hepatitis C in Chinese Han hemodialysis (HD) patients.

METHODS

The genotyping of IL-12B 3'UTR and IL-10 -592 and -819 were performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method.

RESULTS

Compared with the IL-12B-AA genotype, CC and combined CC/AC genotypes were associated with a significant decreased risk of HCV infection in Chinese hemodialysis patients (p < 0.001). However, the IL-10-592 and -819 genotypes were not found significant difference both between the anti-HCV (+) and anti-HCV (-) patients (p > 0.05) and the persistent infection and viral clearance HD patients (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study indicated that the polymorphisms of IL-12B 3'UTR might contribute to the susceptibility of HCV infection in Chinese HD population.

Interleukin-12B+1188A/C polymorphism contributes to increased hepatocellular carcinoma susceptibility: evidence from a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Interleukin-12 (IL-12) is a multifunctional cytokine that induces interferon (IFN)-γ secretion and plays an important role in antitumor immunity. The IL-12B +1188A/C polymorphism was found to correlate with a decreased cytokine production and/or activity, which may lead to increased susceptibility to cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Previous epidemiological studies investigating the association between IL-12B +1188A/C polymorphism and HCC risk reported inconsistent results. We performed a meta-analysis to derive a precise estimation of the association.

METHODS

All studies published up to July 2014 on the association between IL-12B +1188A/C polymorphism and HCC risk were identified by searching electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, and Chinese Biomedical Literature database (CBM). Data were extracted by two independent authors and the odds ratios (ORs) together with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the association between IL-12B +1188A/C polymorphism and HCC risk.

RESULTS

Five studies with 1864 cases and 2077 controls were included in the meta-analysis. We observed that the IL-12B +1188A/C polymorphism was significantly correlated with increased HCC risk when all studies were pooled into the meta-analysis (CC vs. AA: OR=1.306, 95% CI 1.063-1.606, P=0.011; AC vs. AA: OR=1.193, 95% CI 1.014-1.405, P=0.034; CC+AC vs. AA: OR=1.260, 95% CI 1.098-1.445, P=0.001). In subgroup analyses by ethnicity, source of control, and study quality, significant increased HCC risk was found in Asians, hospital-based studies, and high quality studies.

CONCLUSIONS

The present meta-analysis suggests that the IL-12B+1188A/C polymorphism is a low-penetrant risk factor for HCC development, especially among Asians. Further large and well-designed studies are needed to confirm this association.

Role of IL-4 gene polymorphisms in HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma in a Chinese population

Background

Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is best known as an important mediator and modulator of immune and inflammatory responses. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a typical inflammation-related cancer, and genetic variations in the IL-4 gene may be associated with the risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related HCC. However, few studies have been conducted on their association.

Objectives

To clarify the effects of IL-4 gene polymorphisms on the risk of HBV-related HCC, two common variants, −590C/T (rs2243250) and −33C/T (rs2070874), and their relationship with HBV-related disease risk were investigated in a Chinese population.

Methods

IL-4 −590C/T and −33C/T polymorphisms were examined in 154 patients with HBV-related HCC, 62 patients with HBV-induced liver cirrhosis (LC), 129 patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), and 94 healthy controls, using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method and DNA sequencing.

Results

Overall, no significant differences were observed regarding the IL-4 −590C/T and −33C/T polymorphism genotypes, alleles, or haplotypes between the patient groups and the healthy controls. However, the CC genotypes of IL-4 −590C/T and −33C/T polymorphisms were observed to be significantly associated with CHB in subgroup analysis in males [CC versus TT (OR: 4.193, 95% CI: 1.094–16.071, P = 0.037; and OR: 3.438, 95% CI: 1.032–11.458, P = 0.044) and CC versus TT+CT (OR: 4.09, 95% CI: 1.08–15.49, P = 0.038; and OR: 3.43, 95% CI: 1.04–11.28, P = 0.042)].

Conclusions

These findings suggest that genetic variants in IL-4 −590C/T and −33C/T polymorphisms may be a risk factor for CHB in Chinese males but not for HBV-related LC or HCC.

Aberrant expression of p-STAT3 in peripheral blood CD4+ and CD8+ T cells related to hepatocellular carcinoma development

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancer types worldwide. The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) protein is a member of the STAT transcription factor family. Oncogenesis, invasion, and metastasis of HCC are associated with activation of STAT3. However, whether aberrant expression of phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) in peripheral CD4+ and CD8+ T cells relates to HCC pathogenesis remains unclear. In this study, the expression of p-STAT3 in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and the levels of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-6 and IL-10 in the human hepatoma cell line Huh7 co-cultured with peripheral blood mononucleated cells (PBMCs) of healthy volunteers were measured. The correlations between p-STAT3 and IFN-γ/IL-4, IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-6 and IL-10 were then analyzed. Results showed that the p-STAT3 level is higher in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the peripheral blood of HCC patients, and in PBMCs co-cultured with Huh7 cells compared to controls. The cytokine (IL-4, IL-6 and IL-10) levels were increased and the IFN-γ level was decreased in the serum of HCC patients and in supernatants of PBMCs co-cultured with Huh7 cells. Correlation analyses demonstrated that the IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio and the IFN-γ level negatively correlate to the p-STAT3 level in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in samples from patients and in cells cultured in vitro. By contrast, the levels of IL-4, IL-6 and IL-10 positively correlated to the p-STAT3 level. This study indicated that the expression of p-STAT3 is upregulated in peripheral CD4+ and CD8+ T cells of HCC patients, and which may result in abnormal immune surveillance and thereby, contribute to HCC pathogenesis.

The -1082A>G polymorphism in promoter region of interleukin-10 and risk of digestive cancer: a meta-analysis

The -1082A>G polymorphism is located in promoter region of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and it could affect the production of IL-10. Numerous studies have investigated the association between IL-10 -1082A>G and risk of digestive cancer. However, the conclusion is still inconsistent. Here, we have performed a meta-analysis and systematic review to determine the association between the IL-10 -1082A>G and susceptibility to digestive cancer. In this meta-analysis, we identified 40 eligible studies, involving 7195 patients of digestive cancer and 11755 controls. By pooling all eligible studies, we found the variant -1082G allele significantly increased risk of digestive cancer (G vs. A: OR = 1.181, 95% CI: 1.057-1.319). Further stratified analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of cancer types, ethnicities, study design, sample size and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Stratified analysis suggested that, the -1082A>G polymorphism was only associated with increased risk for gastric cancer (G vs. A: OR = 1.281, 95% CI: 1.102-1.488) and in Asian population (G vs. A: OR = 1.399, 95% CI: 1.188-1.646). No significant publication bias was detected. Based on 40 studies and 18950 participants, we found the variant IL-10 -1082G allele significantly increased susceptibility to digestive cancer, especially for gastric cancer and in Asian population.

Molecular mechanisms of gender disparity in hepatitis B virus-associated hepatocellular carcinoma

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is one of the most common causes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a malignant tumor with high mortality worldwide. One remarkable clinical feature of HBV-related HCC is that its incidence is higher in males and postmenopausal females compared to other females. Increasing evidence indicates that HBV-associated HCC may involve gender disparity and that it may be a type of hormone-responsive malignant tumor. Sex hormones, such as androgen and estrogen, have been shown to play very different roles in the progression of an HBV infection and in the development of HBV-related HCC. Through binding to their specific cellular receptors and affecting the corresponding signaling pathways, sex hormones can regulate the transactivation of HBx, cause the chronic release of inflammatory cytokines in the hepatocellular microenvironment, and participate in epigenetic and genetic alternations in hepatocytes. All of these functions may be related to the initiation and progression of HBV-associated HCC. A thorough investigation of the molecular mechanisms underlying the gender-related disparity in HBV-related HCC should provide a new perspective for better understanding its pathogenesis and exploring more effective methods for the prevention and treatment of this disease.

Lack of association between interferon gamma +874 T/A polymorphism and cancer risk: an updated meta-analysis

Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) is a potent proinflammatory cytokine which plays a pivotal role in the antiviral, antiproliferative, and antitumor activities. A T-to-A transition at the position +874 of human IFN-γ gene (IFNG) has been reported to influence the secretion of IFN-γ and affect cancer susceptibility. However, results from published studies on the association between IFNG +874 T/A polymorphism and cancer risk are inconclusive or even controversial. In order to derive a more precise estimation of the association, a meta-analysis of 38 eligible studies including 5,630 cases and 6,096 controls was conducted with odds ratio (OR) and its corresponding 95 % confidence interval (95 % CI). Overall, no significant association was detected in allelic model (A allele vs. T allele-OR = 0.96, 95 % CI, 0.86-1.08), homozygote comparison (AA vs. TT-OR = 0.97, 95 % CI, 0.79-1.21), heterozygote comparison (AT vs. TT-OR = 1.03, 95 % CI, 0.87-1.23), dominant model (AA + AT vs. TT-OR = 1.00, 95 % CI, 0.87-1.15), nor recessive model (AA vs. AT + TT-OR = 0.93, 95 % CI, 0.78-1.12). Further subgroup analyses based on ethnicity, cancer types, and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium status failed to demonstrate any significant relationship except in African population under recessive model (AA vs. AT + TT-OR = 0.68, 95 % CI, 0.47-0.97). In conclusion, the current meta-analysis suggested that IFNG +874 T/A polymorphism may not contribute to cancer susceptibility, and further well-designed studies with large sample size are warranted to validate our conclusion.

The interleukin 10 -819C/T polymorphism and cancer risk: a HuGE review and meta-analysis of 73 studies including 15,942 cases and 22,336 controls

The aim of the present work was to perform a meta-analysis to evaluate the association between the interleukin 10 (IL-10) -819C/T (rs1800871) polymorphism and cancer risk. A total of 73 studies, including 15,942 cancer cases and 22,336 controls, were identified in this meta-analysis. The odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the random-effects model. Overall, no significant association was identified between the IL-10 -819C/T polymorphism and cancer risk. In the subgroup analyses, the T allele and TT genotype were associated with a moderately reduced cancer risk in the Asian population (T allele vs. C allele: OR=0.93, 95%CI: 0.87, 0.99; TT vs. CC: OR=0.86, 95%CI: 0.76, 0.98; TT vs. CT/CC: OR=0.90, 95%CI: 0.82, 0.98). Individuals who were homozygous for the T allele (TT) were found to be associated with significantly reduced gastric cancer risk in the Asian population. The heterozygous variant (CT) and the dominant model (TT/CT vs. CC) were associated with an increased risk for cervical and ovarian cancer. However, the IL-10 -819C/T polymorphism was not significantly associated with breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, prostate cancer, lymphoma, or melanoma. The depressed cancer risk of the TT genotype occurred in the studies of hospital-based case-control studies and the studies recruited less than 500 subjects, but no statistically significant results were found in the stratified analyses using genotyping method. The results suggest that the IL-10 -819TT genotype may be a protective factor for cancer in Asians, especially gastric cancer. In contrast, the CT genotype and the dominant model could be risk factors for cervical and ovarian cancer. The importance of stratifying by ethnicity, cancer type, study design, and sample size needs to be standardized in future studies, together with considering the association between the IL-10 -819C/T polymorphism and cancer risk. Furthermore, the linkage of -819C/T with other polymorphisms of the IL-10 gene may help explain the variability in findings.

Effect of IL-12B, IL-2, TGF-β1, and IL-4 polymorphism and expression on hepatitis B progression

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection-induced chronic inflammation is considered to be the major etiological factor for HBV-related disease chronicity. Cytokines act as the key coordinators of the inflammatory responses involved in HBV disease pathogenesis. The present study assessed association among IL-12B(+1188), IL-2(-330), TGF-β1(-509), and IL-4(-590) genotypes; mRNA; and protein levels with HBV-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk in India. For this, 403 subjects (153 controls, 67 inactive HBV-carriers, 62 chronic-active HBV patients, 62 HBV-cirrhotics, and 59 HBV-HCC ssubjects) were enrolled in the study. The genotyping was carried by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism (IL-12+1188A/C, IL-2-330T/G, and TGF-β1-509C/T), and allele specific (AS)-polymerase chain reaction (IL-4-590C/T). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction methods were used for assessing protein and the mRNA expression, respectively, of the mentioned cytokines. The study revealed that the IL-12B(+1188) CC genotype shared a significant positive association with hepatitis, among controls. While, in the case of IL-2(-330), both the TG and GG genotypes were not significantly associated with HCC risk. The TGF-β1(-509) TT genotype acted as a potential protective factor for cirrhosis and the HCC risk, among carriers. On the contrary, the IL-4(-590) CT genotype was found to be a vital protective factor for the development of hepatitis, among carriers. Besides, IL-12B, TGF-β1, and IL-2 seem to be majorly involved in the development of HCC, while, IL-4 might be responsible for the progression of the HBV disease till cirrhosis development. These initial findings are indicative of the vital role of genotypes and/or levels of IL-12B, IL-2, IL-4, and TGF-β1 in HBV disease chronicity in Indian population.

IFN-γ (+874) and not TNF-α (-308) is associated with HBV-HCC risk in India

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interferon (IFN)-γ, the pro-inflammatory Th1 cytokines are the indispensable coordinators of the inflammatory responses involved in hepatitis B virus (HBV) pathogenesis. This study attempted to evaluate any possible association among TNF-α (-308G>A) and IFN-γ (+874T/A) genotypes, the spontaneous blood and mRNA levels and expression of their major signal transducers, namely STAT1 and NF-кB with hepatitis B virus-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) susceptibility in India. For this, 398 subjects (146 controls, 68 inactive-HBV-carriers, 64 chronic-active HBV patients, 61 HBV-cirrhotics, and 59 HBV-HCC subjects) were enrolled. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism, allele-specific PCR, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, reverse transcriptase-PCR, and Western blot analysis were done for assessing polymorphism, blood levels, mRNA expression, and protein expression of signal transducers, respectively, of TNF-α and IFN-γ. The study revealed no significant association of TNF-α (-308) GA genotype, while a significant negative association of IFN-γ (+874) TA and AA genotypes, in HBV-HCC risk. Moreover, blood levels of TNF-α were significantly elevated as disease progresses to HCC, while IFN-γ levels were raised in HCC patients only. Besides, IFN-γ mRNA levels were significantly elevated in cirrhotics, with no change observed in TNF-α transcript levels. Moreover, NF-кB expression also consistently increased during HCC progression. These observations suggest a vital negative association of IFN-γ (+874) with HBV-HCC risk, with no significant association evident in TNF-α (-308). However, the TNF-α and IFN-γ levels markedly increased in HCC development.

IL-4 -590C/T polymorphism and susceptibility to liver disease: a meta-analysis and meta-regression

Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is a pleiotropic cytokine that plays an important role in the immune system. Emerging evidences have shown that the common polymorphism (-590C/T; rs2243250 C>T) in the IL-4 gene may play an important role in the development of various liver diseases, but individually published studies revealed inconclusive results. This meta-analysis aims to derive a more precise estimation of the association between the IL-4 -590C/T polymorphism and susceptibility to liver disease. A literature search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and China BioMedicine databases was conducted on articles published before January 1st, 2013. Crude odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals were calculated to assess the strength of this association. Ten case-control studies were assessed with a total 1,140 patients and 1,649 healthy controls. The meta-analysis results indicated that the IL-4 -590T polymorphism might increase the risks of hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) infections. Further subgroup analyses showed significant associations between the IL-4 -590T polymorphism and increased risks of liver diseases among Caucasian populations, but similar associations were not found among Asian populations. Univariate and multivariate meta-regression analyses showed that differences in ethnicity and clinical subtype are the major sources of heterogeneity. No publication bias was detected in this meta-analysis. In conclusion, the current meta-analysis indicates that the IL-4 -590T polymorphism may play an important role in increasing HBV and HCV infection risks, especially among Caucasian populations.

Association of polymorphisms in the interleukin-4 gene with response to hepatitis B vaccine and susceptibility to hepatitis B virus infection: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the associations between functional polymorphisms in the interleukin-4 (IL4) gene and individuals' responses to hepatitis B vaccine and their susceptibility to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.

METHODS

A literature search on articles published before December 1st, 2012 was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and China BioMedicine (CBM) databases. Crude odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Statistical analyses were performed using the STATA 12.0 software.

RESULTS

Eight studies were eligible for inclusion in this meta-analysis, including five cross-sectional studies on individual's response to hepatitis B vaccine and three case-control studies on HBV infection risk. The meta-analysis results showed that the T allele of rs2243250, the T allele of rs2070874, and the C allele of rs2227284 in IL4 gene were associated with high responses to hepatitis B vaccine. Further subgroup analysis by ethnicity showed that there was a significant association between IL4 genetic polymorphisms and an individual's responses to hepatitis B vaccine among Asian populations, but similar association was not found among Caucasian populations. However, there was no evidence indicating a correlation between IL4 genetic polymorphism and susceptibility to HBV infection.

CONCLUSION

Our current meta-analysis suggests that rs2243250, rs2070874 and rs2227284 polymorphisms in IL4 gene may play an important role in determining the response to hepatitis B vaccine, especially among Asian populations. However, further studies are still needed to evaluate the associations between IL4 genetic polymorphisms and HBV infection risk.

Genetic association of interleukin-6 polymorphism (-174 G/C) with chronic liver diseases and hepatocellular carcinoma

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine which is expressed in many inflammatory cells in response to different types of stimuli, regulating a number of biological processes. The IL-6 gene is polymorphic in both the 5’ and 3’ flanking regions and more than 150 single nucleotide polymorphisms have been identified so far. Genetic polymorphisms of IL-6 may affect the outcomes of several diseases, where the presence of high levels of circulating IL-6 have been correlated to the stage and/or the progression of the disease itself. The -174 G/C polymorphism is a frequent polymorphism, that is located in the upstream regulatory region of the IL-6 gene and affects IL-6 production. However, the data in the literature on the genetic association between the -174 G/C polymorphism and some specific liver diseases characterized by different etiologies are still controversial. In particular, most of the studies are quite unanimous in describing a correlation between the presence of the high-producer genotype and a worse evolution of the chronic liver disease. This is valid for patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related chronic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) whatever the etiology. Studies in hepatitis B virus-related chronic liver diseases are not conclusive, while specific populations like non alcoholic fatty liver disease/non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, autoimmune and human immunodeficiency virus/HCV co-infected patients show a higher prevalence of the low-producer genotype, probably due to the complexity of these clinical pictures. In this direction, a systematic revision of these data should shed more light on the role of this polymorphism in chronic liver diseases and HCC.

Genetic polymorphisms of epidermal growth factor in relation to risk of hepatocellular carcinoma: two case-control studies

BACKGROUND

Earlier, we reported a highly statistically significant association between T-helper 1 (Th1) and Th2 cytokine genotypes and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk among natives of southern Guangxi, China, a hyperendemic region for HCC. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) plays a critical role in malignant transformation of hepatocytes and tumor progression. A polymorphism in the EGF gene (61A > G) results in elevation of EGF in liver tissues and blood. Epidemiological data are sparse on the possible association between EGF genetic polymorphism and HCC risk.

METHODS

The EGF 61A > G polymorphism, multiple Th1 and Th2 genotypes, and environmental risk factors for HCC were determined on 117 HCC cases and 225 healthy control subjects among non-Asians of Los Angeles County, California, a low-risk population for HCC, and 250 HCC cases and 245 controls of southern Guangxi, China.

RESULTS

Following adjustment for all known or suspected HCC risk factors, non-Asians in Los Angeles who possessed at least one copy of the high activity 61*G allele of the EGF gene showed a statistically non-significant, 78% increased risk of HCC compared with those possessing the EGF A/A genotype. This EGF-HCC risk association significantly strengthened among heavy users of alcohol [odds ratio (OR) = 3.44, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.93-12.76, P = 0.065)], and among individuals carrying the high-risk Th1/Th2 genotypes for HCC (OR = 3.34, 95% CI = 1.24-9.03, P = 0.017). No association between EGF genotype and HCC risk was observed among Chinese in southern Guangxi, China.

CONCLUSION

Genetic polymorphism in the EGF gene resulting in elevated level of EGF, may contribute to HCC risk among low-risk non-Asians in Los Angeles.

Single nucleotide polymorphism in the interleukin 12B gene is associated with risk for breast cancer development

We analysed the association of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the gene encoding the IL-12 subunit p40 (IL12B, rs3212227, A>C) with breast cancer. The SNPs allelic and genotypic frequencies were compared between patients (n = 191) and healthy (n = 194) women in a case-control study from Croatia. The major allele (A) was associated with susceptibility to breast cancer (P = 0.003; OR = 1.67; 95% CI: 1.17-2.38). Likewise, the minor allele (C) was significantly correlated with protection (P = 0.003; OR = 0.60; 95% CI: 0.42-0.86). At the genotype level, AA homozygosity was significantly associated with predisposition to disease (P = 0.013; OR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.09-2.59), whereas the minor allele homozygosity (CC) was correlated with protection to disease (P = 0.020, OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.09-0.91). The heterozygous genotype showed no significant correlation with disease. The product of the IL12B gene (IL-12 p40) can either form a homodimeric cytokine or be part of two pro-inflammatory (IL-12 and IL-23) cytokines. It is presently unclear whether the major allele is associated with higher or lower protein levels of IL-12 p40 and IL-12 p70, which are critical in inflammation and adaptive immune responses. However, as the A allele is high producer of IL12B (p40) mRNA, these results might imply that higher levels of IL-12 p40 (either as homodimers or joined with one or both of the other two subunits) predispose to breast cancer.

Interleukin-10-819C>T polymorphism contributed to cancer risk: evidence from 29 studies

Cytokines are important modulators in the interactions between the host immune system and malignant tumor. Of these, Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is an important immunoregulatory cytokine mainly produced by macrophages and T lymphocytes. To date, a number of studies investigated the role of the IL-10-819C>T polymorphism in the aetiology of cancers of various organs. However, the results of these studies remain inconclusive. So, we carried out a meta-analysis on all eligible case-control studies to estimate the overall cancer risk of IL-10-819C>T polymorphism as well as to quantify the between-study heterogeneity and potential bias. This meta-analysis, including 8157 cases and 10473 controls from 29 published case-control studies, explored the association between a potentially functional polymorphism, -819C>T within the IL-10 promoter region and cancer risk. We used odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess the strength of the association. The results provided evidence that the IL-10-819C>T polymorphism was associated with a significant decrease in overall cancer risk. In the stratified analyses, the risk remained for studies of "other cancer", smoking-related cancer, Asian populations and hospital-based studies. This meta-analysis identified an evidence of the association between the IL-10-819C>T and cancer risk, especially in "other cancer", smoking-related cancers, Asians and hospital-based studies. Further large case-control studies, especially studies in African population were needed to validate our results.

Functional polymorphisms in the interleukin-12 gene contribute to cancer risk: evidence from a meta-analysis of 18 case-control studies

BACKGROUND

Emerging evidence from preclinical and clinical studies has shown that interleukin-12 (IL-12) has some effectiveness against endogenously arising carcinogenesis. Several potentially functional polymorphisms of IL-12 gene have been implicated in cancer risk, but individually published studies showed inconclusive results. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between IL-12 polymorphisms and cancer risk.

METHODS

The MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of science and CBM databases were searched for all articles published up to June 10, 2012 that addressed IL-12 polymorphisms and cancer risk. Statistical analyses were performed using RevMan 5.1.6 and STATA 12.0 softwares.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies were included with a total of 6463 cancer cases and 7412 healthy controls. We found that the 3'UTR A>C (rs3212227) polymorphism of IL-12B gene was associated with significantly increased overall risk of cancers using random effects model (C vs A: odds ratio [OR]=1.14, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02-1.27; AC+CC vs AA: OR=1.20, 95%CI: 1.01-1.43). However, the 3'UTR G>A (rs568408), IVS2 T>A (rs582054) and 5'UTR T>G (rs2243115) polymorphisms of IL-12A gene did not appear to have an influence on cancer susceptibility. Further subgroup analyses showed that the 3'UTR A>C (rs3212227) polymorphism was associated with increased cancer risks in the subgroups of Asians, cervical and nasopharyngeal cancers.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from the current meta-analysis indicates that the 3'UTR A>C (rs3212227) polymorphism of IL-12B gene might be a potential biomarker for cancer risk among Asians, especially for cervical and nasopharyngeal cancers.

Interleukin-12: clinical usage and molecular markers of cancer susceptibility

The last decade has seen the emergence of immunomodulators as therapeutic agents in cancer treatment. Interleukins (ILs) are a category of small cell-signaling molecules that organize communication and interaction between immune cells and therefore they could be used as perfect immunomodulators. IL-12 is a promising candidate for cancer immunotherapy since it plays a major role in development of antitumor immune response. Numerous studies report that IL-12 promotes an effective destruction of cancer cells both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, IL-12 has anti-angiogenic activity and it is able to dramatically decrease tumor-supportive activities of tumor-associated macrophages. The first part of the review is devoted to immunobiology of IL-12. Signaling pathways of IL-12 as well as clinical trials of this cytokine are discussed. The second part of the review is concerned on the inherited variations in IL-12A and IL-12B genes that could modulate cancer susceptibility, and as a consequence, possess predictive, therapeutic, or prognostic significance. It is known that functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IL-12A and IL-12B genes may dramatically affect on protein expression level, or alter its functions, which may lead to immune disorders, autoimmune diseases, and eventually contribute to cancer occurrence. The list of genetic polymorphisms for further investigations might include the following: IL-12B_+1188A/C (rs3212227), IL-12A_+277G/A (rs568408), IL-12A_-798T/A (rs582054), IL-12A_-504T/G (rs190533), IL-12A_-1148T/C (rs2243123), and IL-12B_+16974 A/C. Perhaps, some of these SNPs may become an attractive target for oncogenomics and possibly could be used in programs of early cancer diagnosis as well as cancer prevention in the nearest future.