Host genetic factors and antiviral immune responses to hepatitis C virus.

Human genome variations explain some of the heterogeneity in the immune response to antigenic stimuli. Such differences in response to hepatitis C virus (HCV) antigens can account for the ability of the immune response to clear HCV after an acute infection or to develop more rapidly progressive liver disease. Several studies have examined polymorphisms in several candidate immune-response genes for their relation to these HCV outcomes. Results of some of these studies complement knowledge gained from immunology studies, and others offer new insights into HCV biology. This review summarizes published studies on variation in immune-response genes and HCV outcomes.