Abstract |
There are indications that the cytokine interleukin (IL)-10 has a regulatory role in Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-induced infections. Because the human IL-10 gene demonstrates polymorphism resulting in interindividual differences in cytokine production, the frequencies of the alleles defined by the base exchange polymorphism at the position -1082 (allele 1=G, allele 2=A) were analyzed in EBV-seronegative adults, seropositive adults, and in patients hospitalized because of a severe EBV infection. The frequencies of allele 1 were 0.80, 0.46, and 0.29, respectively. Because this allele is associated with a high IL-10-producing capability, these data suggest that high IL-10 levels protect against EBV infection and, conversely, that low IL-10-producing capability makes individuals more susceptible to a severe EBV infection.
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Authors | M Helminen, N Lahdenpohja, M Hurme |
Journal | The Journal of infectious diseases
(J Infect Dis)
Vol. 180
Issue 2
Pg. 496-9
(Aug 1999)
ISSN: 0022-1899 [Print] United States |
PMID | 10395868
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
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Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Adult
- Child
- Disease Susceptibility
- Epstein-Barr Virus Infections
(immunology, virology)
- Gene Frequency
- Herpesvirus 4, Human
(immunology, isolation & purification)
- Humans
- Interleukin-10
(genetics)
- Polymorphism, Genetic
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