A specific gene recognised by scientists is said to double the dangers of respiratory failure that could result from Coronavirus.
Scientists have also explained why some ethnic groups are more vulnerable to severe disease than others.
Oxford University researchers have identified a higher-risk version of the gene which most likely prevents the cells from lining airways and the lungs from responding to the virus properly. According to a study published on Thursday, already 60% of people of South Asian origin carry this version of this gene as compared with 15% of people with a European heritage.
The findings of the study explain why higher rates of hospitalization and death may have been seen in particular communities and not on the Indian subcontinent.
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The authors of the study have also cautioned that the gene cannot be utilised singly to explain this phenomenon as many other components like socioeconomic conditions, play a role.
Despite the significant impact of the Covid-19 virus on people with Afro-Caribbean ancestry, only 2% carry a greater danger of the genotype.
The authors said that the benefit of vaccination can be enjoyed by people who carry the gene LZTFL1, which to date is believed to be the topmost way of protection against the virus. Research for treatments specific to the patients with this gene is a possibility with the findings. Currently, there are no customised drugs available.
James Davies, who worked in the intensive care during the pandemic is the co-lead author and associate professor of genomics at Oxford said, this "shows that the way in which the lung responds to the infection is critical. This is important because most treatments have focused on changing how the immune system reacts to the virus."
The gene was discovered by Davies and his colleagues with the help of artificial intelligence and the latest molecular technology. Large quantities of data from hundreds of types of cells from all over the body were analysed with the help of an algorithm and then a new technique allowed the team to zero in on the DNA that is responsible for this specific genetic signal.
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Davies in a reporters briefing on Thursday said, "if you have the higher-risk genotype and you get very unwell with Covid, there's a 50% chance that wouldn't have happened to you had you had the lower-risk genotype."