Genetic Factors Affecting Vaccine-Induced Immunity to Hepatitis B Virus
Author Information
Author(s): Hennig Branwen J., Fielding Katherine, Broxholme John, Diatta Mathurin, Mendy Maimuna, Moore Catrin, Pollard Andrew J., Rayco-Solon Pura, Sirugo Giorgio, van der Sande Marianne A., Waight Pauline, Whittle Hilton C., Zaman Syed M., Hill Adrian V., Hall Andrew J.
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
Hypothesis
Do host genetic factors influence long-term immunity against hepatitis B virus infection following vaccination?
Conclusion
The study identifies genetic variations that affect peak antibody levels and immunity to hepatitis B vaccination.
Supporting Evidence
- Variation in IFNG, MAPK8, and IL10RA affects peak anti-HBs level.
- Odds of core-conversion were associated with variation in CD163.
- A coding change in ITGAL was linked to increased peak anti-HBs level.
- The study is the largest to assess genetic determinants of HBV vaccine-induced immunity.
- Genetic variation in loci other than the HLA region affects immunity induced by HBV vaccination.
Takeaway
This study looks at how our genes might affect how well we respond to the hepatitis B vaccine, showing that some genetic differences can help us have stronger immunity.
Methodology
The study analyzed 715 SNPs across 133 candidate genes in 662 infant vaccinees from The Gambia, assessing peak anti-HBs levels and core antibody status.
Potential Biases
The study did not adjust for ethnicity, which could introduce bias as the majority of participants were of Mandinka origin.
Limitations
The sample size for the replication study was smaller, which may have affected the significance of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily infants vaccinated in The Gambia, with a mean age of 13.4 years at the time of the first screen.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p≤0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: not specified
Statistical Significance
p≤0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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