Negative Correlation of Interleukin-38 Serum Level with Alkaline Phosphatase and Persistent Hepatitis C Infection

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the main cause of acute and chronic liver failure. It seems that interleukin-38 (IL-38), a member of IL-1 cytokine family, has an anti-inflammatory function through binding to the receptor of several cytokines. Objectives: To examine serum level of IL-38 in HCV-infected patients and its correlation with liver enzymes. Methods: We measured serum levels of IL-38 and liver enzymes in 26 untreated and 11 treated HCV-infected patients and 26 healthy individuals using ELISA and biochemistry assay kits, respectively. Results: Serum level of IL-38 was significantly lower in untreated HCV+ patients compared to treated patients (P = 0.014) and control group (P < 0.0001). In addition, IL-38 levels negatively correlated with alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels in untreated HCV+ patients (r = -0.905, P = 0.042). However, no significant correlations were detected between serum levels of IL-38 and other liver enzymes. Conclusions: Our results suggest a potential anti-inflammatory role for IL-38 in chronic HCV infection which can be implemented to prevent severe hepatic failure in patients with hepatitis C.