Association between the frequency of IL-4 590C>T gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Abstract

Interleukin 4 (IL-4) is a cytokine which is encoded by IL4 gene, it plays a role to activate the differentiation of the native T helper cells (Th0) into a normal T-helper 2 cells (Th2). Previous researches had shown that IL-4 protects the pancreatic islets from cytotoxicity that can occur as well as it decreases the production of (Th1). In addition, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the IL-4 promoter region (IL4-590 C>T) could have a relation with type two diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In addition to that, the long-term exposure of IL-4 on the pancreatic islets can inhibit islet functions. The aim of the present study is to probe for the association of IL4-590 C>T with TDM in Egyptian patients.