LONDON: Scientists identify certain genes that doubled the risk of respiratory failure from Covid-19 and can do several ways to explain why some ethnic groups are more susceptible to severe illnesses than others.
Researchers from the University of Oxford found that high-risk versions of genes that are most likely to prevent air and lung layer cells respond to the virus correctly.
About 60% of people with South Asian ancestors bring this version of the gene, compared to 15% of people with European heritage, according to research published Thursday.
These findings help explain why higher levels of hospitalization and death may be seen in certain communities and in the continent of Indian continents.
The authors warn that genes cannot be used as a single explanation as many other factors, such as socio-economic conditions, play a role.
Although there was a significant impact of the virus to people with Afro-Caribbean ancestors, only 2% carrying higher risk genotypes.
People with genes, known as LZTFL1, will be very useful from vaccination, which remains the best protection method, the authors said.
The findings raise the possibility of research into special care for patients with this gene, even though no customized drugs are currently available.
This “shows that the way the lungs respond to infection is very important,” said James Davies, Author Co-Lead and Professor of Genomics in Oxford, who worked in intensive care during a pandemic.
“This is important because most care focuses on changing the way the immune system reacts to the virus.” Davies and his colleagues found genes using artificial intelligence and molecular molecular technology.
The team trains algorithms to analyze a large number of genetic data from hundreds of cell types throughout the body, and then use a new technique that allows them to hone in DNA behind this specific genetic signal.
All the other things are the same, “If you have a high-risk genotype and you become very unhealthy with Covid, there is a 50% possibility that it won’t happen to you, you have lower risk genotypes,” Davies said about briefing with reporters on Thursday.