Th-1 type cytokine production of the macrophages may predict the virological response of IFN in chronic hepatitis C

Backgound: T-helper 1 (Th1) cytokines are required for host antiviral cell-mediated immunity, Th2 cytokines are responsible for humoral immune response and may associate with persistence of virus. The aim of the study was to compare Th1 and Th2 type cytokine production of stimulated T cells and macrophages in patients with chronic hepatits C having different responses to antiviral therapy. Methods: 28 patients with chronic hepatitis C undergoing IFN+ribavirin therapy and 20 healthy controls have been studied. Th2 (IL-4, IL-6, IL-10) and Th1(IFNg, TNFa, IL-2) cytokine levels were determined by FACS microbead assa…