Two sides of a coin: GG genotype of C7 provides protection against fibrosis severity while showing a higher risk for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with hepatitis C.

The complement system (CS) is a key element of immunity against pathogens but also seems to influence other events, such as tumorigenesis and tissue repair. Complement component 7 (C7) is a key component of the lytic pathway of CS, leading to the formation of the membrane attack complex (MAC). This study aimed to investigate the existence of the association of a polymorphism in the C7 gene, rs1063499, with hepatic fibrosis and the occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with hepatitis C.

Low IL10 serum levels as key factor for predicting the sustained virological response to IFNα/ribavirin in Brazilian patients with HCV carrying IL28B CT/TT genotype.

Propose: IL28B polymorphisms rs12979860 CC genotype was associated to protection of HCV infection and sustained virological response (SVR) in HCV infected patients treated with pegIFNα/ribavirin (IFNα/RIB), however, this polymorphism frequency varies depending on genetic components. Studies with larger number of Brazilian individuals, determining IL28B polymorphisms is lacking. Regarding to treatment response, the levels of IL10 seem to influence response to IFNα/RIB therapy.

Plasma myeloperoxidase levels correlate with hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis C.

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is an enzyme responsible for generating hypochlorous acid and reactive oxidants that may lead to liver injury and cancer in hepatitis C (HCV) infection. MPO expression level is regulated by a polymorphism in the promoter region -463 of MPO gene. In the current study, MPO plasma levels and the G-463A MPO polymorphism were determined in 158 chronically HCV infected patients with and without hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).