Assessment of Tumor necrosis factor alpha gene polymorphisms (-857and -863) In Acne Vulgaris Patients and their Correlation with Disease Severity

Abstract

Background: Numerous cellular processes are linked to the tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) superfamily and its
corresponding receptors. Furthermore, a great deal of research has been done on their function in many pathogenic
diseases, particularly in skin illnesses. The formation of acne lesions may be influenced by genetic variables that alter
TNF-α expression.
Objective: To assess TNF-α polymorphisms (-857 and -863) in Egyptian patients with acne vulgaris and their
correlation to disease severity.
Patients and methods: This study included 50 patients suffering from acne vulgaris of different severity (Patients
group). In addition, 50 apparently healthy individuals of matched age and sex were chosen as a control group. They
were recruited at random for one year duration from the outpatient clinic of Dermatology, Andrology and STD
Department in Mansoura University Hospital.
Results: Regarding TNF-α −857 polymorphism, CC was considered as the reference genotype and C was considered
the reference allele. Our study revealed that AV cases were significantly associated with higher proportion of CT,
CT+TT genotypes (p<0.05 for each), with risk to develop AV (OR>1 for each). While, TT genotype in general and
recessive models, as well as T allele were not associated with AV susceptibility. Regarding TNF-α −863
polymorphism, CC was considered as the reference genotype and C was considered the reference allele. Our study
revealed that AV cases were significantly associated with higher proportion of AA, genotype, and A allele (p<0.05 for
each), with risk to develop AV (OR>1 for each). CA, CA+AA were not associated with AV susceptibility.
Conclusion: We have demonstrated a statistically significant association between the TNF-α −857 and -683 single
nucleotide polymorphism and the susceptibility to acne in Egyptian patients with acne vulgaris.