A proteome-wide genetic investigation identifies several SARS-CoV-2-exploited host targets of clinical relevance.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The virus SARS-CoV-2 can exploit biological vulnerabilities (e.g. host proteins) in susceptible hosts that predispose to the development of severe COVID-19.

Methods

To identify host proteins that may contribute to the risk of severe COVID-19, we undertook proteome-wide genetic colocalisation tests, and polygenic (pan) and cis-Mendelian randomisation analyses leveraging publicly available protein and COVID-19 datasets.

Results

Our analytic approach identified several known targets (e.g. ABO, OAS1), but also nominated new proteins such as soluble Fas (colocalisation probability >0.9, p=1 × 10^-4), implicating Fas-mediated apoptosis as a potential target for COVID-19 risk. The polygenic (pan) and cis-Mendelian randomisation analyses showed consistent

SUBMITTER: Anisul M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8457835 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature