Hong Kong scientists have recently discovered a genetic trait that helps explain why some individuals are more susceptible to illness when infected with SARS, while others remain completely healthy.
The Chinese University of Hong Kong examined the DNA profiles of 285 individuals infected with SARS and compared them to data from over 800 healthy individuals. The results revealed that those with repeated segments of a gene known as CLEC4M are more likely to be severely affected by SARS, with a risk increase of over 30%, as confirmed by the lead researcher, Lin Chen-Lung, in the journal Nature Genetics. In contrast, those who possess this repetition on both chromosomes of the CLEC4M gene are safe.
CLEC4M encodes a protein called L-SIGN, which acts as a receptor on the surface of cells. The research team believes that in individuals with protective CLEC4M variants, the SARS virus quickly weakens when it binds to L-SIGN. This receptor is present in the liver and lymph nodes.
My Linh
