Starting August, a team of researchers will study the genetic architecture of COVID-19 in the Peruvian population through the statistical analysis of genome-wide association studies (GWAS).
The scientists aim to identify mutations or genetic variants in Peruvians' genome, which predispose this population to a higher risk of COVID-19 severity.
The GWAS is a statistical analysis of genome-wide association studies that requires hundreds of thousands of statistical calculations applied to genomic data in order to identify genetic variants that may be associated with a phenotype (a specific trait), in this case, the COVID-19 severity.
Meddly Santolalla —a Huanuco-born researcher at Lima-based
Cayetano Heredia University and leader of the group— explained that DNA samples will be voluntarily obtained from COVID-19 patients all over Peru.
In addition, she said, exons (any part of a gene) that may be associated with varying levels of COVID-19 severity will be evaluated. Both hospitalized and non-hospitalized patients will participate in the research.
The project will include the identification of new therapeutic targets, which will be made by using bioinformatic analysis.
"We will browse the druggable genome database in search for existing drugs that correct the effects of the variants found in previous GWAS analysis," Santolalla said.
"Regarding the drugs, the most viable, rapid and realistic drug strategy in developing countries and in the context of the coming economic crisis is 'drug repositioning.' The identified drugs would be new candidates for future in vitro experiments or
clinical trials," she added.
Importance of the research
The Peruvian researcher affirmed that the study would identify risk groups, or
groups vulnerable to the disease, and promote future research on therapeutic targets.
(END) SPV/RMB/MVB
Published: 7/30/2020