A group of top scientists have discovered a link between certain DNA and some of the most severe cases of coronavirus.
Researchers from Edinburgh University have stated they have found 13 specific DNA sequences that are associated with the virus, also known as "genetic markers".
Now identified, the group have said the strands could be targets for possible therapies to help patients beat Covid-19, after analysing over 50,000 patients.
After looking at the genetics, the team found key differences in 13 genetic markers of Covid-19 patients compared with healthy volunteers. The genes partially explain why some people become seriously ill with Covid-19, while others are not affected.
The team also identified factors such as smoking and high body mass index as reasons why some people suffer from Covid-19 more acutely.
Of the 13 genetic markers identified so far, two occur more often among patients of East Asian or South Asian ancestry than in those of European ancestry.
Speaking about the new research, Dr Kenneth Baillie, GenOMICC’s chief investigator and Academic Consultant in Critical Care Medicine said:
"By working together across the whole world, we are able to accelerate discovery for the benefit of patients.
"This new international analysis builds on the colossal effort made by patients and intensive care research teams across the whole UK in the GenOMICC study."
