The role of HBV genotype core promoter and precore mutations in advanced liver disease in renal transplant recipients

Background/Aims: In renal transplant recipients (RTRs), chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection may lead to poor outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the role of the HBV genotype, core promoter and precore mutations in advanced liver disease in RTRs. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 51 RTRs positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). HBV genotype determination and direct sequencing of core promoter and precore regions were performed using the baseline and end-of-follow-up sera post-renal transplantation. Results: Alanine Transaminase (ALT) and HBV DNA levels were elevated after transplantation (66%). HBV genotypes B and C were found in 45 (88%) and 6 (12%) patients, respectively. There was no significant association of cirrhosis development with ALT, and hepatitis B-e antigen (HBeAg) levels, type of immunosuppressant, HBV genotype, T1762/A1764 and A1896 mutations, and duration of follow-up, except endpoint HBV DNA levels (≥10⁵ copies/ml). High T1762/A1764 mutation rates were associated with high HBV DNA levels (P = 0.036) at the endpoint. Conclusions: HBV DNA replication was enhanced in RTRs with T1762/A1764 mutation. Increased serum HBV DNA levels were associated with cirrhosis development. T1762/A1764 mutation and cirrhosis development did not show significant correlation because of small sample size and/or interventional anti-viral therapies during follow-up.