Progression of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is facilitated by an intricate cellular network comprising host genetics and viral factors. Interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-6 are the components of host immune system and regulate innate and adaptive immune responses against viral infection. Association of IL-4 and IL-6 with the pathogenesis and prognosis of HCV was investigated through IL-4 (-590 C/T) and IL-6 (-174 G/C) promoter region single nucleotide polymorphism analysis. Homozygous genotypes of IL-4 (-590 C/T) and IL-6 (-174G/C) predominated the HCV-infected population and was found to be associated with the occurrence of infection. However, the heterozygous genotype (CT) of IL-4 (-590 C/T) indicated a protective effect against HCV infection. Despite being predominant in control population, GC genotype of IL-6 (-174G/C) depicted a strong association with infection relapse. Comparison of viral load with IL-4 (-590 C/T) and IL-6 (-174G/C) genotypic distribution among study groups has shown a strength of association. Whereas opposite trend has been observed in cases with infection relapse. On the whole, IL-4 and IL-6 have exploratory potential for further evaluation in pathogenesis and prognosis of HCV infection.
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