# Chronic active and chronic inactive hepatitis B virus infection: Comparative study of genetic polymorphism and blood profile measures

## TL;DR

This study explores how a genetic variation in TLR3 affects the progression and symptoms of chronic hepatitis B.

## Contribution

The study identifies a potential link between the TLR3 1377 C/T polymorphism and symptomatic chronic active hepatitis B.

## Key findings

- The CC genotype of TLR3 1377 C/T was more common in males with chronic active hepatitis B.
- The CC genotype was significantly associated with symptomatic presentation in chronic active cases.
- Elevated liver enzymes were more common in chronic active hepatitis B patients.

## Abstract

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a significant cause of chronic hepatitis, leading to liver complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are critical in the immune response to HBV. This study investigates the TLR3 1377 C/T polymorphism’s association with clinical outcomes in chronic hepatitis B patients.

A case-control study included 136 participants (66 cases and 70 controls). The patients were categorized as having chronic active or inactive hepatitis B based on serological, biochemical, and molecular parameters. TLR3 1377 C/T polymorphism was analyzed using PCR-RFLP. The correlation between TLR3 genotypes, HBeAg status, liver enzyme levels (ALT and AST), and symptomatic presentation was assessed.

Among the 66 cases, the CC genotype was more frequent in males with chronic active hepatitis (14 males, 5 females), but no significant gender-based difference was observed in genotype distribution. A significant association was found between the CC genotype and symptomatic presentation in chronic active cases (P = 0.015). However, no significant association was detected between TLR3 genotypes and HBeAg status (P > 0.05). Elevated ALT and AST levels were more prevalent in chronic active cases.

The TLR3 1377 C/T polymorphism, particularly the CC genotype, may influence the clinical presentation of chronic hepatitis B, particularly in symptomatic cases. However, its impact on HBeAg status and overall chronicity appears limited. Further studies are needed to clarify the role of TLR3 polymorphisms in HBV pathogenesis and their potential as therapeutic targets.