Association between SUMF1 polymorphisms and COVID-19 severity

Abstract

Background Evidence shows that genetic factors play important roles in the severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Sulfatase modifying factor 1 (SUMF1) gene is involved in alveolar damage and systemic inflammatory response. Therefore, we speculate that it may play a key role in COVID-19. Results We found that rs794185 was significantly associated with COVID-19 severity in Chinese population, under the additive model after adjusting for gender and age (for C allele = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.44–0.88, P = 0.0073, logistic regression). And this association was consistent with this in European population Genetics Of Mortality In Critical Care (GenOMICC: OR for C allele = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.90–0.98, P = 0.0037). Additionally, we also revealed a remarkable association between rs794185 and the prothrombin activity (PTA) in subjects (P = 0.015, Generalized Linear Model). Conclusions In conclusion, our study for the first time identified that rs794185 in SUMF1 gene was associated with the severity of COVID-19.

The Genetics behind Sulfation: Impact on Airway Remodeling

“…The risk of severe COVID-19 at the rs794185 site of the SUMF1 gene was significantly reduced for TT carriers, while patients possessing at least one C allele at the rs794185 exhibited a reduced likelihood of experiencing severe COVID-19. This may be related to alveolar injury, systemic immune response, and nervous system damage caused by infection [ 85 ].…”