The D allele of angiotensin-converting enzyme gene insertion/deletion polymorphism is associated with the lung involvement in COVID-19
Turkish Journal of Biochemistry, vol.48, no.2, pp.160-167, 2023 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 48 Issue: 2
- Publication Date: 2023
- Doi Number: 10.1515/tjb-2021-0281
- Journal Name: Turkish Journal of Biochemistry
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, Directory of Open Access Journals
- Page Numbers: pp.160-167
- Keywords: ACE I, D gene, pneumonia, polymorphism, SARS-CoV-2, viral
- Open Archive Collection: AVESIS Open Access Collection
- Kütahya Health Sciences University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Objectives: In COVID-19, severe lung involvement develops in some patients. The reason for the predisposition to lung involvement in some patients is not yet fully understood. Genetic variabilities in angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) may explain why some patients are more susceptible to lung injury. Thus, the ACE gene insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism was investigated in COVID-19 patients with and without lung involvement. Methods: The study involved 216 patients who were divided into two groups as with and without pulmonary involvement according to their thoracic computed tomography (CT) scan findings. The ACE I/D gene polymorphism was determined. Results: Carriers of the DD genotype had a 4.05-fold (OR=4.05, 95% CI: 1.66-9.86, p=0.001) greater incidence of pulmonary involvement. The probability of lung involvement was 2.41-fold higher in D allele carriers (OR=2.41, 95% CI: 1.62-3.60, p=0.000). The I allele was found to be protective and diminished the occurrence of lung involvement (OR=0.41, 95% CI: 0.28-0.62, p=0.000). Conclusions: In COVID-19 patients, the I allele may lower the risk of lung injury and provide a protective effect. Conversely, the D allele may raise the risk of lung injury and lead to poor outcomes.