Influence of the HLA-DQB1*0201 allele on the immune response in a Schistosoma mansoni infection

We previously reported the association of the major histocompatibility complex class II HLA-DQB1*0201 allele with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytokine responses of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and the serum levels of immunoglobulin isotypes. The study population was selected from a schistosomiasis endemic area. No significant differences in cytokine profiles were detected in PBMCs stimulated with Schistosoma mansoni soluble egg antigen (SEA), regardless of the subjects DQB1*0201 genotype or infection status. However, previously infected DQB1*0201 positive individuals had significantly lower levels of IgG4 compared to DQB1*0201 negative individuals (P < 0.05).