Study Identifies Genetic Advantage of “Super Dodgers” who Contract COVID-19 without Symptoms
A recent study published in Nature sheds light on the phenomenon of “super dodgers,” individuals who contract COVID-19 but never develop any symptoms. Researchers have discovered that these individuals may possess a genetic advantage that enables them to effectively combat the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
The study, led by Dr. Jill Hollenbach, a professor of neurology, epidemiology, and biostatistics at the Weill Institute for Neurosciences at UCSF, found that “super dodgers” are more than twice as likely as those who experience symptoms to carry a specific gene variation that aids in the destruction of the coronavirus.
According to the research, approximately 20% of people infected with COVID-19 are able to avoid severe sickness. The immune system-supporting human leukocyte antigen, which plays a crucial role in identifying and eliminating the virus, appears to possess a mutation in these “super dodgers.” This mutation enables their virus-killing cells, known as T cells, to quickly recognize the coronavirus, even if it is their first encounter, due to similarities with other familiar seasonal cold viruses.
Dr. Hollenbach explains the significance of this discovery, stating, “If you have an army that’s able to recognize the enemy early, that’s a huge advantage. It’s like having soldiers that are prepared for battle and already know what to look for, and that these are the bad guys.”
The study found that approximately 10% of the population analyzed in the study carried this genetic mutation. Furthermore, having two copies of the variant provided even greater protection, reducing the chances of experiencing symptoms by more than eight times.
Despite not preventing the virus from infecting cells, this mutation effectively prevents people from developing any symptoms, including common signs such as a runny nose or a barely noticeable sore throat.
The insights gained from understanding the biology behind asymptomatic infections have crucial implications for public health measures, vaccine design, and therapeutic development. This knowledge could aid in the development of more effective prevention strategies and treatment options for COVID-19.
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As researchers continue to unravel the mysteries surrounding COVID-19, the discovery of “super dodgers” brings hope for a deeper understanding of how certain individuals can effectively combat the virus, providing valuable insights for the ongoing battle against the pandemic.