Association of genetic polymorphism of pre-microRNA-146a rs2910164 and serum high-mobility group box 1 with febrile seizures in Egyptian children.

Interaction between immune-inflammatory process and genetic factors might be implicated in the pathogenesis of febrile seizures. Pre-microRNA (miR)-146a rs2910164 polymorphism is postulated to modulate expression of miR-146a whose anti-inflammatory role involves regulation of high-mobility group box 1. Our aim is to examine whether rs2910164 polymorphism influences serum high-mobility group box 1 levels and whether an association exists between both and febrile seizures. The study included 136 children, divided into 4 groups. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used for detection of rs2910164 polymorphism and high-mobility group box 1 was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. High-mobility group box 1 levels were higher in febrile seizure patients compared to the other groups. Rs2910164 polymorphism was not associated with increased risk of febrile seizures. Rs2910164 polymorphism might be accompanied by an upregulation of the proinflammatory process as it might be associated with an increase in high-mobility group box 1 and leukocytic count.