TLR 9 (rs352140) gene polymorphism in Helicobacter pylori infection in children

Most of the global populace is susceptible to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, which typically manifests in childhood. This study aimed to identify the role of TLR9 (rs352140) gene in suppressing or promoting the inflammation related to H. pylori infection in children. This cross-sectional study enrolled 100 children with dyspeptic symptoms undergoing upper endoscopy, including 50 with confirmed H. pylori infection and 50 age- and sex-matched H. pylori-negative controls. All children undertook full history, complete clinical investigation, laboratory testing, upper digestive endoscopies and genotyping of TLR9 (rs352140). A statistically significant difference presented among H. pylori positive and H. pylori negative children as regards TLR rs352140 gene polymorphism, as patients have statistically higher frequencies of homozygous TT genotype, CT genotype and of variant T allele in contrast to H. pylori negative group. Hazard of H. pylori is 7.9 times higher in children with TT genotype and 3.6 times higher in children with CT genotype in contrast to children carrying CC genotype. Also, children carrying the altered T allele had a statistically higher risk of H. pylori, 2.3 times in contrast to those carrying C allele. TLR9 rs352140 gene polymorphism was correlated with of H. pylori infection and incidence of gastritis in children.