Effect of CD133 polymorphisms on the risk of developing liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma induced by viral hepatitis

Background: CD133 has been postulated to identify cancer stem cells (CSCs) and to play a role in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of CD133 polymorphisms on viral hepatitis-induced liver cirrhosis, as well as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) susceptibility and prognosis.Methodology: CD133(+) cells were counted and CD133 SNPs (rs3130, rs1029728, rs2240688, and rs2286455) were genotyped in HCV, HCV-liver cirrhosis, HCV-HCC, HBV, HBV-liver cirrhosis, and HBV-HCC patients and disease free controls.Results: The percentage of CD133(+) cells was observed to be significantly higher in HCV-and HBV-associated liver cirrhosis and HCC. Also, the CD133 rs3130 (C > T) TT, rs1029728 (A > G) GG, and rs2240688 (G > T) SNP TT genotypes were associated with a greater risk of liver cirrhosis and HCC development in viral hepatitis patients. Furthermore, in HCV-related HCC, rs3130 TT, rs1029728 GG, or rs2240688 TT genotypes were significantly associated with an increased number and size of focal lesions, but only the rs3130 TT genotype was associated with higher lesion size in HBV-associated HCC. In addition, individuals having rs3130 TT and rs1029728 GG genotypes had a significantly higher percentage of CD133(+) cells. However, only HCV-infected individuals, carrying rs2240688 TT genotype, had an elevated level of CD133(+) cells.Conclusions: CD133 rs3130, rs1029728, and rs2240688 are genetic factors that can influence the susceptibility to liver cirrhosis and cancer, as well as the prognosis. As a result, CD133(+) cells and CD133 polymorphisms might serve as potential predictors of these illnesses, laying the groundwork for the discovery of novel therapeutic targets.

Automated summary

CD133 polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility and prognosis of viral hepatitis-induced liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. These findings suggest that CD133(+) cells and CD133 polymorphisms may serve as potential predictors for these diseases.