MTHFR C677T Polymorphism and Plasma Homocysteine in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Erika RF Siqueira, Cláudia PMS Oliveira, Maria TC Muniz, Filipe Silva, Leila MMB Pereira, Flair J Carrilho
Primary Institution: University of Sao Paulo School of Medicine
Hypothesis
The MTHFR C677T polymorphism may influence the progression of fibrosis and steatosis in chronic hepatitis C patients from Northeast Brazil.
Conclusion
Plasma homocysteine levels are prevalent in chronic hepatitis C patients with steatosis, and the MTHFR C677T polymorphism is more common in patients infected with non-genotype 1.
Supporting Evidence
- The frequency of MTHFR genotypes TT was 9.8% in non-1 genotype patients.
- Plasma homocysteine levels were significantly higher in patients with steatosis.
- Genotype TT+CT frequencies were significant in the presence of fibrosis grade 1+2.
Takeaway
This study found that a specific gene variant is more common in people with liver problems caused by hepatitis C, and those with this variant also have higher levels of a harmful substance in their blood.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study analyzing the MTHFR C677T polymorphism in 174 untreated chronic hepatitis C patients, with genomic DNA extracted from blood and homocysteine levels measured.
Potential Biases
Potential confounding factors related to the genetic diversity of the Brazilian population.
Limitations
The study was limited to a specific population in Northeast Brazil, which may not be representative of other populations.
Participant Demographics
174 patients (91 male, 83 female) with chronic hepatitis C from Northeast Brazil.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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