Humans With Neanderthal DNA Protects Against Severe Types Of Coronavirus
NEANDERTHAL DNA VS COVID-19 – According to a recently published study, having Neanderthal genes protects against severe cases of COVID-19.
As 2020 comes to a close, scientists devolved several vaccines against the deadly coronavirus. However, Britain and several areas in Europe recently discovered a new and more infectious strain of COVID-19. With this, medical experts in Europe fear a new faster outbreak of the new virus strain.
Meanwhile, a study published on medRxiv revealed that humans with Neanderthal genes have a protein that could protect against the virus. Furthermore, medications that could boost the level of this protein could potentially help in dealing with the virus.
The study mentions a protein called “OAS1”. This particular protein is responsible for our body’s response to viruses. Moreover, those with higher levels of this Neanderthal-descended gene were found less likely to be infected with COVID-19.
Also, in the event that they do get infected, people with this specific gene have a lesser chance of hospitalization, intubation, and death.
This protective form of OAS1 is present in sub-Saharan Africans but was lost when the ancestors of modern-day Europeans migrated out of Africa. It was then re-introduced into the European population through mating with Neanderthals
Brent Richards from the Jewish General Hospital and McGill University in Montreal
According to an article from CNN, early modern humans who migrated from Africa spread across the world and eventually came across ancient humans such as Neanderthals. These ancient humans migrated and populated Europe and parts of Asia.
Afterward, studies have shown that these two species interbred and passed down their genes from generation to generation. Additionally, scientists discovered links between Neanderthal DNA and fertility, pain reception, and immune system functionality.
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Just finished reading your article on OAS1. According to 23 and me dna site which I belong to, I am in the 80% group of the people with OAS1. 5 of my very close family has had COVID ( very mild cases) but I not had it. Who knows, it may be working in me.