Unraveling the Genetic Mystery of Asymptomatic COVID-19

Scientists have identified a gene variant, HLA-B*15:01, that may explain why some individuals who test positive for COVID-19 never develop any symptoms. The variant, found in 20% of asymptomatic participants, is associated with a quicker immune response that fights off the virus before symptoms can occur. The study, which focused on a homogenous group of individuals, suggests that genetics play a significant role in determining asymptomatic outcomes. Understanding the genetic factors behind asymptomatic infections could have implications for vaccine development and therapeutic strategies.