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AIM: To investigate the cellular defects by analyzing the (Th1/Th2) cytokine levels in vaccine responders and non-responders.

METHODS: Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) from responders and non-responders were stimulated with or with out recombinant HBsAg or PHA. Broad spectrum of cytokines viz (Th1) IFN-γ, IL-2, TNF-α, IL-12 and (Th2) IL-10, IL-4 were measured after in vitro stimulation with recombinant HBsAg and were compared with respective antibody titers.

RESULTS: A significant decrease (P= 0.001) in Th1 and Th2 cytokines namely, IL-2, INF-γ, TNF-α and IL-10 in non-responders was observed. The level of IL-4 was not significant between the three groups. Furthermore, despite a strong Th1 and Th2 cytokine response, the level of IL-12 was elevated in high-responders compared to other groups (P= 0.001) and demonstrated a positive correlation with anti-HBs titers and Th1 cytokine …