Genetic variant rs16944 in IL1B gene is a risk factor for early-onset sepsis susceptibility and outcome in preterm infants

Objective Interleukin-1-B (IL1B) is a proinflammatory cytokine that plays an important role in sepsis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationships between IL1B - 511G/A polymorphism and susceptibility and outcome of early-onset sepsis (EOS) in preterm infants. Methods DNA was extracted from the buccal swabs of 471 (285 with EOS and 186 control) preterm infants. Genotypes of rs16944 polymorphism were determined with real-time PCR method. Results We found statistically significant higher frequency of IL1B - 511AA genotype in EOS group than in control group ( p = 0.012). Also, IL1B - 511AA genotype is statistically significantly more frequent in patients with lethal EOS outcome ( p = 0.011). Conclusion Genotype IL1B - 511AA was associated with susceptibility to EOS and it is a significant predictor of lethal outcome in preterm infants with EOS.