Link between chronic disease genetic disposition and COVID-19(COV-GEN)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An investigation into the link between COVID-19 severity and genetic predisposition to chronic conditions
IRAS ID
292916
Contact name
Luke Moore
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Chelsea & Westminster NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 0 days
Research summary
The likelihood of contracting COVID-19 has been greater amongst individuals with conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol. It has also influenced the severity of the disease once it is contracted. In this study, we are examining information contained within a patient's DNA, known as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), for which there is evidence to indicate whether a person may have a predisposition to one or more of the aforementioned conditions. The key element here is that a person may have a genetic predisposition to a disease, however they may not present with it at the time of contracting COVID-19, and conversely there will be people who have one of the above conditions but may not have the genetic predisposition for them. As such, we aim to determine if having a genetic predisposition to one or more of the conditions may correlate with COVID-19 severity, or indeed long-COVID. The genetic predisposition information can be quickly analysed using the Nudgebox of DnaNudge, which is the same technology that is currently being used in hospitals within the NHS to diagnose COVID-19. Hence, if there is a correlation, clinicians would be able to perform a genetic test on a patient alongside a COVID-19 test, and this could inform the treatment pathway for the patient as it may indicate whether the patient is more at risk or not.
REC name
London - Brent Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/PR/0923
Date of REC Opinion
23 Aug 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Unfavourable Opinion