Genetic Risk Factors for West Nile Virus Infection and Disease Progression
Author Information
Author(s): Bigham Abigail W., Buckingham Kati J., Husain Sofia, Emond Mary J., Bofferding Kathryn M., Gildersleeve Heidi, Rutherford Ann, Astakhova Natalia M., Perelygin Andrey A., Busch Michael P., Murray Kristy O., Sejvar James J., Green Sharone, Kriesel John, Brinton Margo A., Bamshad Michael
Primary Institution: University of Washington
Hypothesis
Identifying genetic factors that influence the development of West Nile virus disease could help elucidate pathways important for increased pathogenicity.
Conclusion
The study found that genetic variations in the interferon response pathway are associated with both the risk of symptomatic West Nile virus infection and disease progression.
Supporting Evidence
- SNPs in IRF3 and MX1 were associated with symptomatic West Nile virus infection.
- A single SNP in OAS1 was associated with increased risk for West Nile encephalitis and paralysis.
- Genetic variation in the interferon response pathway is linked to disease progression.
Takeaway
Some people get really sick from West Nile virus while others don't, and this study found that our genes might help explain why.
Methodology
The study involved a case-control association analysis of SNPs in 86 genes among 753 individuals infected with West Nile virus.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the selection of control groups and the classification of disease phenotypes.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable due to the specific population studied and the reliance on self-reported ancestry.
Participant Demographics
The study included 753 individuals, with 422 symptomatic cases and 331 asymptomatic cases, with a median age of 57 for symptomatic cases.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.003
Confidence Interval
95% CI 3.60–26.61
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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