Genetic
The starting point and foundation of your Virus risk score comes from your own DNA.
Research by King’s College London shows that nearly three quarters of our immune traits are influenced by our genes – which makes it a great place to start.
Below is a summary of some the 60 genetic variants that are utilised in our algorithm and what they do within the body.
IL-6 (Interleukin 6)
The IL-6 gene encodes for a pro-inflammatory cytokine. It’s involved in the immune system, helping with bone metabolism, protection from bacterial infection as well as a host of other physiological functions.
Various pharmaceutical companies are now looking at IL-6 inhibitors as possible therapy for multiple pathogens. While IL-6 under normal circumstances has many positive health benefits, data suggests that patients with worse outcomes have increased IL-6 compared to those with better outcomes.
TNF-alpha gene (Tumour necrosis factor)
TNF-alpha encodes a pro-inflammatory cytokine produced to kill bacteria, viruses and parasites. When produced in small amounts it will play an important role for the protection of your cells. Unfortunately, if it is produced in larger amounts and more frequently, it can cause your cells to become weakened and lose their function.
HLA-DQA1 (Major histocompatibility complex, class II, DQ alpha 1)
HLA-DQA1 belongs to the HLA class II alpha chain paralogues, the protein encoded by this gene is one of two proteins that form the DQ heterodimer, which is essential for a functioning immune system. Variations in this gene cause inappropriate immune responses and are associated with conditions such as celiac disease, among others.
PON1 (Paraoxonase 1)
The PON1 gene encodes an enzyme known as serum paraoxonase/arylesterase 1. PON1 has a contributing role to our innate immunity as it protects against bacterial infection. It is therefore an important gene when considering secondary infections from common respiratory tract infections.
FOXO3 (Forkhead box O3)
Forkhead box O3 is a protein encoded by the FOXO3 gene. It’s associated with protection from oxidative stressors and, interestingly, has a variant associated with longevity; being overly apparent in those who live to 100.