Prevalence of GBV-C among Iranian HBV positive patients using PCR-RFLP technique

AIM: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of GBV-C among Iranian HBV positive patients using PCR-RFLP technique. BACKGROUND: GBV-C was a member of flaviviridae family and recently propose to classify as members of a fourth genus in this family, named Pegivirus and suggest that at least one quarter of the world's population has been infected with this virus. GBV-C can be transmitted via the blood-borne route, although vertical and sexual transmission is very well documented. PATIENTS AND METHODS: 100 serum samples were collected from HBsAg positive patients in 2011–2012. RNA was extracted with Qiagene mini kit. cDNA was synthesized by Reverse Transcriptase method and amplified by Semi- nested PCR method. After designing specific primers, the semi nested PCR was optimized, then sequences of PCR products were analyzed with software such as neb cutter, and sites of restriction enzymes were determined and suitable enzymes were selected for RFLP (Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism). RESULTS: PCR products were analyzed in 2% agarose gels containing ethidium bromide and were visualized with ultraviolet (UV) light. A 230 bp band was observed in comparison with 100 kb ladder; this band indicates our target gene of GBV-C genome have been isolate from serum samples. CONCLUSION: It seems that Co-infection of GBV-C and HBV are common and This method had acceptable sensitivity for detecting GBV-C and determining its genotype, and more affordable than the other techniques; so the results of this study showed the prevalence of GBV-C were 12 serums of 100 serums HBsAg positive in goal population and one sample from 12 GBV-C positive serums was genotype 3 and the others were genotype 2.