Impact of IL28B (rs8099917) gene polymorphism on treatment response to Sovaldi, Daklinza, and Ribavirin in Egyptian patients with HCV infection

Infection by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a big threat to human health all over the world. Many host factors could affect the treatment response in HCV infection. One of these factors is IL28B gene polymorphism. This research study investigated the association of IL28B (rs8099917) gene polymorphism with treatment response in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection receiving a combination of Sovaldi, Daklinza, and Ribavirin in Egypt. The study included 100 patients, divided into three groups based on treatment outcomes: responders, relapsers, and non-responders. Biochemical and hematological analyses were performed, and HCV genotypes were determined using PCR. IL28B genotyping was done using real-time PCR. The results showed a high prevalence of HCV genotype 4 and a few patients with genotype 1. The G allele of IL28B was associated with a higher risk of developing relapse and non-response, while the TT genotype was significantly associated with treatment success. Viral load levels were lower in responders compared to relapsers and non-responders. The study suggests that IL28B genotype may be a valuable predictor of treatment response in chronic HCV patients treated with the specified combination therapy. Further research is needed to confirm and fully understand these findings.