The value of promoter methylation of fibroblast factor 21 (FGF21) in predicting the course of chronic hepatitis B and the occurrence of oxidative stress.

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of HBV. This study aimed to investigate the value of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) promoter methylation in the occurrence and development of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) oxidative stress.

METHODS

A total of 241 participants including 221 patients with CHB and 20 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. Methylation level of FGF21 promoter in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was quantitatively determined. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to assess oxidative stress in CHB patients.

RESULTS

Our study shows that the FGF21 methylation level was significantly lower in HBeAg-positive CHB patients compared to HBeAg-negative CHB patients and HCs (P < 0.0001). The oxidative stress of HBeAg-positive CHB patients was more severe. Further correlation analysis showed that there was a significant correlation between the methylation level of FGF21 promoter and the occurrence of oxidative stress in CHB patients. In addition, assessment based on FGF21 promoter methylation level proved effective for predicting oxidative stress occurrence and disease progression among CHB patients.

CONCLUSION

FGF21 promoter methylation level is an important marker for predicting oxidative stress and disease progression in patients with CHB.