Detection of cytokines (IL-1α and IL-2) and oxidative stress markers in hepatitis B envelope antigen-positive and -negative chronic hepatitis B patients: Molecular and biochemical study

Abstract

This study aimed to detect hepatitis B virus (HBV)-DNA in patients using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cytokines (interleukins 1-α [IL-1α] and 2 [IL-2]), enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, and lipid peroxidation markers were also measured. Patients infected with HBV were assessed using serological markers (rapid immunochromatographic assays) and HBV-DNA levels (qRT-PCR). Cytokines, lipid peroxidation markers, and antioxidants were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Preliminary screening identified 80 patients who were HBsAg-positive. Serum levels of HBsAg were significantly higher in hepatitis B envelope antigen (HBeAg)-positive patients (7779.9 ± 3898 IU/mL) than in HBeAg-negative individuals (3233.8 ± 2474 IU/mL), as was the HBV-DNA load (P < .001). IL-2 levels were significantly higher in HBeAg-negative patients (P = .001) than in HBeAg-positive patients or healthy individuals. Vitamin C levels in HBeAg-positive patients were significantly lower (P = .001) than those in HBeAg-negative patients and healthy individuals. The levels of superoxide dismutase in both HBeAg-positive and -negative patients were less than in healthy subjects (both, P < .001) as were the mean malondialdehyde levels. The qRT-PCR test provides a clinical advantage for the diagnosis and follow-up treatment of HBV infections. Further, vitamin C and superoxide dismutase levels are useful for monitoring hepatocellular damage in patients infected with HPB; both parameters are significantly reduced in HBeAg-positive patients. Analysing levels of IL-1α and IL-2 revealed information about the HBV infection status and are essential parameters of hepatic inflammatory activity.