Abstract
Objective. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IL28B and IL10 regions are important in predicting the antiviral response in hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients. In this study, the association of IL28B and IL10 genetic polymorphisms and other clinical factors was assessed as a predictive marker for the sustained virological response (SVR) of HCV patients taking direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). Methods. We processed 384 serum specimens of HCV serology positive cases for qualitative and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Patients were followed up for 12 weeks after the start of antiviral therapy, and the viral load was monitored at each time point. IL28B and IL10 polymorphisms (rs8103142 and rs12980275, rs1800872 and rs3021094, respectively) were detected by real-time PCR, followed by melt curve analysis for genotyping. Results. This study's findings indicate an independent association of SVR with high basal viral load (P=0.005) and an HCV genotype other than 3 (P=0.001). Patients with viral load log10 >6.5 IU/mL required more days to reach an undetectable viral RNA load. The results of the genetic analysis showed a significant association of rs8103142 genotype CC (N0.01) and rs12980275 genotype AA (P=0.01) with non-SVR. Both SNPs showed an independent association in the multivariate analysis. Conclusion. High basal viral load, HCV genotype, and host polymorphisms of rs8103142 and rs12980275 have an independent association in predicting the therapeutic response of HCV patients. The preliminary identification of polymorphisms prior to treatment will help in predicting the outcome of therapy.