Interleukin-21 modulates balance between regulatory T cells and T-helper 17 cells in chronic hepatitis B virus infection.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Chronic HBV infection is always accompanied by differences in the balance between regulatory T cells (Tregs) and T-helper 17 (Th17) cells in infection phases. IL-21 plays an important role in the progression of chronic HBV infection. Thus, the aim of our study was to investigate the role of the regulatory function of IL-21 in maintaining the balance between Tregs and Th17 cells in chronic HBV infection.

Methods

Twenty-five chronic HBV-infected patients in the immune-tolerant (IT) phase and 23 chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients were recruited in this study. Cytokines production was measured by ELISA. The mRNA expression levels were determined by qPCR. CD4⁺T cells were stimulated with or without IL-21. Tregs and Th17 cells were measured by flow cytometry.

SUBMITTER: Cai Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10594809 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature