Changes to the migratory inhibitory factor, IL-17, and IL-10 levels in serum from chronic hepatitis B patients and clinical significance following Baraclude(®) treatment.

This study aimed to determine the relationship between changes in the serum levels of macrophage migratory inhibitory factor (MIF), interleukin (IL) 17, and IL-10 during chronic hepatitis B treatment via Baraclude(®) (Bristol-Meyers Squibb). Thirty-six patients with chronic hepatitis B and 24 healthy individuals were selected as the experimental and control groups, respectively, and the serum levels of MIF, IL-17, and IL-10 were measured during the period in which the experimental group was treated with oral Baraclude(®); meanwhile, the alanine aminotransferase (ALT), hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA, and HBV marker (M) levels were measured in the experimental group. In the experimental group, the ALT and HBV-DNA levels began to exhibit obvious decreases in week 4, and the MIF and IL-17 levels exhibited obvious increases in week 4 followed by gradual decreases; however, the IL-10 level exhibited an obvious decrease in week 12 and then increased gradually. These changes were significant when compared with the control group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, Baraclude(®) treatment not only actively suppressed HBV but also indirectly balanced the MIF, IL-17, and IL-10 levels and reduced the liver inflammatory response.