The different distribution of hepatitis C virus genotypes in Eastern Black Sea region of Turkey

Abstract

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has infected about 170-200 million people worldwide and HCV genotypes have been related with a particular geographic distribution. The information of genotypes in chronic hepatitis C is critical for the decision of the pharmaceutical regimen, and for the therapeutic outcome. The aim of the study was determining the dispersion of hepatitis C Virus genotype in our area. The study was conducted on 42 patients who referred from various clinics infected with HCV. Serum HCV RNA levels were quantified by using the COBAS AMPLICOR HCV Monitor 2.0. An 851 bp long fragment spanning codons 63 to 347 of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase in the NS5b part of the HCV genome was amplified. PCR amplifications were conducted in a BioRad DNA Engine using Quantitect SYBR Green PCR mix. Purified PCR products expressively sequenced with the ABI PRISM 310 Genetic Analyzer appliance utilizing DYEnamic ET Terminator Cycle Sequencing Kit. The most prevalent genotype was type 1b (90.4%) in our study. In the other types, type 3 and 4 were detected.We believe that distribution of HCV genotype in this region should be followed strictly due to difference from reports, which reported other parts of Turkey. © 2013 DILEK AR, et al.