A common polymorphism of tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) is associated with an increased risk for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

Background: Spontaneous bacterial infection (SBP) is a frequent complication of decompensated cirrhosis contributing to high mortality rates exceeding 60% per year. Monocytes and peritoneal macrophages are potential cellular immune regulators in SBP exhibiting pattern-recognition-receptors (PRR) to detect bacterial infections. In this context, tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) is a critical mediator in PRR signaling. Aims: We hypothesized that genetic polymorphisms of TRAF6 are associated with an increased risk of SBP by modulating monocytic immune responses in patients with decompensate…