The interferon gamma gene polymorphism +874 A/T is associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome
Abstract Background Cytokines play important roles in antiviral action. We examined whether polymorphisms of IFN-γ,TNF-α and IL-10 affect the susceptibility to and outcome of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). Methods A case-control study was carried out in 476 Chinese SARS patients and 449 healthy controls. We tested the polymorphisms of IFN-γ,TNF-α and IL-10 for their associations with SARS. Results IFN-γ +874A allele was associated with susceptibility to SARS in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.001). Individuals with IFN-γ +874 AA and AT genotype had a 5.19-fold (95% Confidence Interval [CI], 2.78-9.68) and 2.57-fold (95% CI, 1.35-4.88) increased risk of developing SARS respectively. The polymorphisms of IL-10 and TNF-α were not associated with SARS susceptibility. Conclusion IFN-γ +874A allele was shown to be a risk factor in SARS susceptibility.
Chan Eric YT, Au KL, Chow Eudora Y, Yung Raymond WH, Law Helen, Wong Wilfred, Ng Man, Tso Gloria, Ip WK Eddie, Chong Wai Po, Lim Wilina, Peiris JS Malik, Lau Yu