Unraveling the Mystery of Asymptomatic COVID-19: Genetic Insights Revealed
A new study published in Nature suggests that genetics may play a role in why some people who are infected with COVID-19 never experience symptoms. The study found that individuals with a specific variant of the HLA-B gene, which is involved in the immune system, are 2 to 8 1/2 times more likely to be asymptomatic. This variant provides enhanced protection against COVID-19 due to cross-reactive immunity, where exposure to common cold viruses creates memory T cells that can recognize and respond to the COVID-19 virus. While the study has limitations, it could provide insights for better COVID-19 treatments and the development of vaccines and therapeutics aimed at preventing symptoms.