Transforming Growth Factor-Beta 1 (TGF-Beta 1) Gene Polymorphisms are Associated with Atopic Asthma and Helminth Infections in an Admixed Population

The prevalence of allergies has been growing rapidly throughout the world, being inversely associated with reduction of exposure to pathogen. Helminth infections are characterized by mobilization of regulatory T cells producing TGF-β1 that allow for parasite survival and may contribute to protection against allergies. However, allergies are complex diseases determined by both, environmental and genetic factors. We hypothesized that polymorphisms in TGFB1 are associated with helminth infections and allergies.