In a major breakthrough, researchers have discovered a significant association between the microsomal triglyceride transporter protein (MTTP) genotype (-493G/T) polymorphism and the development of hepatic steatosis in individuals having hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 3.  According to the findings, the presence of dominant mutations in the MTTP genotype T allele (-493G/T) heightens the vulnerability to hepatic steatosis among individuals suffering from HCV genotype 3.

Hepatic steatosis, characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver, has long been linked to an increased risk of liver cancer. The comprehensive study, utilizing data from prominent databases such as Pubmed, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Web of Science, Embase, and CBM, sought to unravel the intricate relationship between MTTP genotype variations and hepatic steatosis in HCV patients.

For meticulously evaluating the quality of the selected literature, the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was employed to ensure the reliability of the findings. The results, obtained through meticulous analysis using Stata software, revealed a compelling and positive correlation between liver steatosis and the HCV genotype 3 when coupled with the dominant model of the MTTP genotype (-493G/T) (Odds Ratio [OR] = 11.57, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 4.467-29.962). Intriguingly, no significant correlation was witnessed between hepatic steatosis and the recessive, homozygous, or heterozygous models (OR = 1.142, P = 0.5; OR = 1.581, P = 0.081; OR = 1.029, P = 0.86).

The study employed various statistical measures, including Cochran's Q and I2 for heterogeneity assessment, revealing high heterogeneity when I2 ≥ 50% or P < 0.05. To further explore sources of heterogeneity, a random-effects model and subgroup analysis were carried out. Funnel plots, Egger's tests, and Begg's tests were utilized to assess potential publication biases, with results indicating no vital biases. The research team, confident in the stability of their findings, performed a sensitivity analysis, reinforcing the robustness of the observed results.

In conclusion, the study establishes that dominant mutations in MTTP genotype T allele (-493G/T) significantly elevate the predisposition to hepatic steatosis in those suffering from HCV genotype 3. This groundbreaking discovery not only enhances the understanding of the intricate interplay between genetics and liver health but also opens new avenues for targeted interventions and personalized treatment strategies for individuals at risk.