Tumour necrosis factor-alpha gene promoter region-308 and -376 G -> A polymorphisms in Behcet's disease

Abstract

Objective. Contribution of HLA-B51 to the genetic susceptibility for Behcet's disease is well documented and recent studies suggest involvement of other genes. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) genes are located in the vicinity of the HLA-B locus. Polymorphisms in the promoter region of TNF-alpha gene has been found to be associated with altered TNF secretion, and it may have a prominent role in the increased inflammatory responses of Behcet's disease.