Covid-19. Genetic resistance to the virus

DNA kit adntro box

Discover your genetic predisposition and protection to more than 120 diseases and much more with the most complete DNA kit.

Use the coupon BLOG10

Already genotyped? Upload your RAW DNA for free!

You will undoubtedly already know that the coronavirus SARS-coV-2, causing the disease COVID-19, has been a before and after for the recent history of humanity. Hundreds of thousands of people have died around the world because of this VIRUS that has led to the largest global health emergency till the date. However, surely you also know cases of people who have tested positive for COVID-19 and have barely had a slight cold or have not even had a single symptom. How is this possible? Why is it so lethal for some and for others just a cold?

cold or covid 19

Could genetics have something to do with it?

Since the pandemic began, there have been many questions about this new virus. Little by little, thanks to scientific research, we have learned vital characteristics that help us in the fight against this virus.

One of the great questions that scientists have asked themselves from the beginning has been precisely this great difference in symptoms and medical complications by COVID-19 among different patients. Although no one knows the answer for sure yet, two options are being considered. The Icelandic Scientist Kári Stefánsson, leader of «deCODE Genetics« and one of the most relevant researchers on this virus, made the following statements regarding this disparity of symptoms:

What is it that makes some people so sick and yet others do not get sick? There are two main possibilities, one is because of the genetic sequence of the virus itself, the other the genetics unique to each individual who acquires the disease.."

Kári Stefánsson
Icelandic scientist Kári Stefánsson
Icelandic scientist Kári Stefánsson

That is, on the one hand it could be due to different variants of the virus that act with different virulence. On the other, it could be our own genetic information the one that makes us more or less vulnerable to the virus. Most likely it is a conjunction of both, since there is evidence that COVID-19 is composed of different variants. But there is also evidence that our own genetics can protect us against certain pathogens or diseases. An example is the case of HIV, where it is well known by scientists that a certain mutation in the CCR5 gene provides resistance to this virus.

Does SARS-coV also have something to say?

The scientific community is currently working hard to find possible genes that affect sensitivity to COVID-19. On the one hand, genes that have already been widely studied as immune system boosters, that is, gene variants that can result in a stronger immune system. On the other hand, genes directly related to sensitivity to another coronavirus, the SARS-CoV from a few years ago. This can certainly help when it comes to finding the specific genes for COVID-19.

SARS-coV

Age, gender, and blood group

Pleiotropy is when risk factor that we already knew is the feeling of age. It has become clear that this VIRUS affects older people to a greater extent. But this is not always the case, there have also been many cases of young or middle-aged people with a really serious medical condition. The genetics of each individual could explain this.

But something we have known recently is that the virus appears to affect male patients more. Not only has it been seen that men are more likely to contract the disease, but it is also more likely to die. This could only be due to environmental factors that affect men more than women, such as a greater tendency to smoke, or have heart problems. Although the truth is that there are researchers who speculate that women have an immune system that defends better against COVID-19.

Also recently, we have learned that there is a relationship between blood group and sensitivity to COVID-19. According to the genotyping company 23andme, they have analyzed the extensive genetic database of their clients and found that those who were COVID-19 positive more often had blood groups A, B or AB. In other words, those with blood group O they are up to a 26% less likely to contract the disease. On the contrary, those of the group A they are up to a 50% most likely to get it. If you want to read 23andme's article, click here.

covid 19 report according to blood type
Source: 23andme

At ADNTRO we analyze health-related genetic variants  associated with components of the immune system, genes associated with inflammation processes, the Blood type â€¦ However, it is important to remember that there are more factors (in addition to the genetic one), such as previous pathologies, that can influence the final result.

At ADNTRO We are committed to health, and as these gene variations that are shown to affect the COVID-19 disease are published we will include them in our gene mapping service. Undoubtedly a fundamental tool to know the potential risk that we may have against the virus.

Share this post

More interesting articles

DNA kit adntro box

Discover your genetic predisposition and protection to more than 120 diseases and much more with the most complete DNA kit.

Use the coupon BLOG10

Already genotyped? Upload your RAW DNA for free!

Other topics

Start a unique journey inside your DNA

Kind regards from ADNTRO team

Share this post:

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
WhatsApp
E-mail

Get a 10% discount!

An Investment
for all Life

DNA test with saliva sample
More complete analysis
Ancestry, Nutrigenetics, Traits and Diseases,...
Are you already genotyped?

If you have taken a test with 23andMe, MyHeritage, Ancestry.com and others, you can upload your DNA for free at 23andMe, MyHeritage, Ancestry.com and others.

Cardio

The applicability and importance of the PRSs in cardio is endorsed by the American Heart Association (AHA). The applicability of PRS is made possible thanks to this tool that helps in the cardiovascular disease preventionidentifying patients with a higher genetic risk of developing conditions such as diabetes, thromboembolism, hypercholesterolemia, and coronary artery disease (CAD), among others, enabling early interventions and preventive measures to improve patients' cardiovascular health.

Biobanks, Pharmacies and CROs

Access and consultation of genetic data relevant to health and pharmacology. Thanks to this tool, it is possible to know the predisposition of patients to suffer adverse effects and what dose adjustments are necessary for more than 150 drugs, thus improving safety, efficacy and treatment personalization. This information is backed by Stanford University and approved by the FDA and gives solutions for biobanksand research organizations.

Dermatology

Specialized for dermatological clinics, this service provides information on dermatogenomicsskin sensitivities, efficacy of various topical and oral treatments, essential vitamins and minerals for skin health, dermatological conditions, skin types and more data to help you customize your skin care recommendations.

Fitness and wellness centers

Genetic analysis allows design customized training programs that, by taking into account sport-focused genetic characteristics such as muscle fiber types and predisposition to injury, maximize performance and reduce the risk of injury. In addition, by considering genetic factors related to sleep and longevity, the following can be offered recommendations for a healthy lifestyle and sustainable.

Nutri & Fitness

The practical application of nutrigenomics allows you to differentiate yourself from the competition by offering your patients personalized and accurate information on genetic predispositions to food intolerancesThe results of this approach allow the design of dietary plans completely adapted to the genetic profile of the patient. This approach makes it possible to design dietary plans completely adapted to the individual needs maximizing results and providing an exceptional and differentiated service in the field of nutrition.

Neuro

Very useful for psychiatric clinics and psychological clinics. Provides information on the genetic predisposition to develop nervous system diseases and mental disorderssuch as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and OCD, among others. This supports a possible early diagnosis and prevention of these conditions, allowing for more precise and personalized interventions for improve the quality of life of patients.