IL-4 gene polymorphisms and their association with nematodes infection in Pakistani population.

Background: Interleukin-4 (IL-4) plays a central role in the humoral immune defense against nematode parasite infections, inducing IgE switch and regulation of worm expulsion from the intestines. The present study aimed to investigate the polymorphisms in IL-4 gene and their association with socio-demographic and environmental factors among patients with gastrointestinal complaints.

Method: The screened population comprised 305 patients aged 3-50 years from Rawalpindi and Jhelum districts of Pakistan.