Association of IL-10 and IL-10Rβ gene polymorphisms with graft-versus-host disease after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation from an HLA-identical sibling donor

Background: Extensive allelic matching in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes is regarded as a prerequisite for good clinical success of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Also other genetic factors can be assumed to play a role in preventing and controlling the complications associated with allogeneic HSCT, in particular graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Interleukin-10 (IL-10) and its receptor (IL-10R), key regulators of the immune response, are among these candidates. We studied the association of IL-10 and IL-10R beta gene polymorphisms with the occurrence of GvHD in 309 HLA-identical sibling donor and recipient pairs. Results: The difference in genotypic IL-10 production between patient and donor in combination with patient IL-10R beta A/A genotype predisposed strongly to acute GvHD (OR = 7.15, p = 0.000023). On the other hand, a combination of same genotypic IL-10 production with patient IL-10R beta A/A genotype protected from chronic GvHD (OR = 0.407, p = 0.0097). Conclusion: Our results suggest that IL-10 and IL-10R beta genes have a synergistic effect on the risk of GvHD.