Advances in cytokine gene polymorphisms in tuberculosis.

Tuberculosis (TB), especially pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), is a prevalent infectious disease affecting the respiratory system and is characterized by high morbidity, disability, and mortality rates that significantly impact the quality of life of patients and their families. Host genetic susceptibility plays a crucial role in the infection process of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) with single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified as key factors in the genetic loci associated with tuberculosis occurrence and progression. Research indicates that polymorphisms in cytokine genes-including interferons, interleukins, tumor necrosis factors, and chemokines-are closely linked to the onset, progression, and treatment outcomes of pulmonary tuberculosis. Investigating cytokine gene polymorphisms in PTB patients is essential for understanding disease mechanisms and prognosis. This review summarizes the role of cytokine polymorphisms in tuberculosis morbidity, elucidates the biological genetic mechanisms involved at the molecular level, and provides insights into clinical treatment strategies for TB.