Is there a genetic predisposition for COVID-19?

There is increasing evidence that genetic factors may play a role in how individuals respond to COVID-19 infection. Genetic predisposition may influence susceptibility to the virus, severity of symptoms, and disease outcomes.

Certain genetic variations can affect how the body responds to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. These variations may involve the immune system, receptors used by the virus to enter cells, and other biological mechanisms.

SARS-CoV-2 uses the ACE2 protein to enter cells. Variations in the ACE2 gene can affect susceptibility to infection and severity of the disease. TMPRSS2 is another gene involved in the entry of the virus into cells. Variations in this gene may also influence susceptibility to COVID-19.

HLA genes play a crucial role in the immune system by presenting antigens to immune cells. Certain HLA types can affect how the immune system recognizes and fights SARS-CoV-2. Genes involved in the immune response, such as those encoding cytokines and chemokines, can determine how vigorously the immune system responds to a COVID-19 infection. An excessive immune response can lead to a cytokine storm, a serious complication of COVID-19.

Source: https://www.covid19hg.org/

Source: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2020283

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2023-12-11 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025