Five key genes are responsible for the severe course of COVID-19 – Diseases

Scientists have discovered that five key genes are to blame for the most severe course of COVID-19 and this genetic trace must be carefully studied for more effective future treatment, according to world agencies, cited by BTA.

The agencies cite a scientific publication in the journal Nature and lead author Kenneth Bailey of the University of Edinburgh. His team analyzed the genomes of more than 2,000 patients with severe COVID-19.

This is how COVID-19 changes

By comparing it with the genetic data of healthy people, the genetic sequences inherent to people with severe disease in the new coronavirus infection were identified. These sequences play an important role in the body’s immune response in its fight against the pathogen. Five IFNAR2, TYK2, OAS1, DPP9 and CCR2 genes were isolated. Its function is to encode the proteins involved in the body’s response to infections.

In theory, by affecting these ingredients, the severity of the disease can be reduced. “In our study, we found that people who make large amounts of the TYK2 protein are at increased risk for severe forms of COVID-19. And there is a drug on the market that inhibits it,” said Kenneth Bailey.

The group of drugs that limit the action of this protein are called Janus kinase inhibitors and are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. On the other hand, Kenneth Bailey said that experiments are being carried out with synthetic antibodies to limit the action of the CCR2 protein.

The team is requesting that inhibitors be urgently tested in patients with severe COVID-19.