The Columbia University researchers conducted a comprehensive longitudinal study focusing on the molecular-level responses of the human body to symptomatic, asymptomatic, and mild respiratory illnesses, including common viruses like COVID-19 and influenza. The study revealed a distinctive gene expression profile capable of differentiating between symptomatic and asymptomatic cases and distinguishing positive asymptomatic individuals from those testing negative.
By analyzing nasal swab samples from 214 volunteers over 19 months, the research shed light on the intricate interactions between various respiratory viruses and bacteria in the human body. Notably, the study found that influenza induced more significant changes in gene expression compared to other viruses. Additionally, the findings hinted at a potential connection between repeated pathogen exposure and host responses.
The majority of viral infections studied were attributed to rhinoviruses and coronaviruses, with only a small percentage indicating evidence of multiple viral infections. Overall, this research contributes to a nuanced understanding of how our bodies react to different respiratory illnesses at a molecular level, expanding our knowledge beyond symptomatic cases.
“The repeated emergences of influenza and coronavirus pandemic outbreaks have emphasized the need for a better understanding of host-pathogen interactions in respiratory viral infections,” states study co-first author Marta Galanti, PhD, an associate research scientist in environmental health sciences at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health.
“Identifying the main biological pathways by which viruses interact with our bodies is key for developing therapeutic tools, such as antivirals or vaccines, as well as for better identifying individuals at risk, both for seasonal respiratory viruses and emerging pandemic threats,” states study co-senior author Jeffrey Shaman, PhD, professor of environmental health sciences at Columbia Mailman and Interim Dean of the Columbia Climate School.
A previous study utilizing data from the same cohort highlighted the occurrence of reinfections with endemic coronaviruses, even within a year of the initial infection. Contrary to expectations, the study observed that reinfection did not correlate with milder symptoms; instead, it suggested that genetic factors might play a more significant role in determining the severity of an infection. This information provides valuable insights into the complexity of immune responses and reinfections related to endemic coronaviruses, contributing to a broader understanding of the factors influencing the course of respiratory infections.
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