Association of Mannose-Binding Lectin Gene Polymorphisms with Liver Diseases: A Review

Mannose-Binding Lectin (MBL) is a member of the collectin family and is an important protein in the immune system. It is a pathogen pattern-recognition molecule that binds to specific carbohydrate motifs on the surface of many pathogens. MBL activates complement via lectin pathway. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the MBL gene influence serum MBL concentration and function. MBL deficiencies increase the risk of infection and disease-specific complications, especially in those who are already immune compromised with pre-existing conditions. This review discusses the molecular genetics of human MBL and the association of MBL polymorphisms with liver diseases including liver fibrosis, viral hepatitis B, viral hepatitis C, and infection post-liver transplantation.