A comparative analysis of TLR5 polymorphism and clinical parameters in typhoid patients and asymptomatic typhoid carriers

Aim Typhoid fever is a serious health problem in tropical and developing countries. Although asymptomatic typhoid carriers show no clinical signs, they can spread infection to others. This study investigated the Toll like receptor 5 (TLR5) polymorphism and various clinical parameters in typhoid patients and asymptomatic typhoid carriers. Subjects and methods TLR5 gene was amplified in typhoid patients (n= 15), asymptomatic carriers (n= 10) and healthy control subjects (n= 10) by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of TLR5 gene was performed with restriction enzyme (Ddel). Clinical parameters such as total leukocyte, platelets, Creactive protein (CRP), and adenosine de-aminase (ADA) were estimated. A correlative analysis of TLR5 gene polymorphism and clinical parameters was performed. Results Typhoid fever patients had significantly (p<0.05) reduced total leukocyte and platelet counts when compared to asymptomatic carriers and control subjects. Typhoid patients showed significantly (p<0.05) reduced ADA activity, while elevated CRP level when compared to carriers and controls. TLR5gene was amplified in all individuals, but only two typhoid patients showed TLR5 gene polymorphism (TLR5392STOP). There was no significant correlation between TLR5 gene polymorphism and clinical parameters studied in typhoid patients. Conclusion The TLR5 gene polymorphism seems to be not associated with susceptibility to typhoid fever.