HLA-G 14-bp variant is associated with exercise-induced oxygen desaturation in the post-COVID-19 condition

TL;DR

A specific HLA-G gene variant is linked to breathing difficulties after recovering from COVID-19.

Contribution

The study identifies a genetic variant associated with oxygen desaturation during exercise in post-COVID-19 patients.

Findings

The HLA-G 14-bp indel variant is linked to the need for invasive mechanical ventilation in COVID-19.

The same variant is associated with exercise-induced oxygen desaturation in post-COVID-19 individuals.

Abstract

HLA-G (major histocompatibility complex, class I, G; HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee identifier: 4964) belongs to the nonclassical HLA-I genes initially related to maternal–fetal tolerance; however, anti-inflammatory functions and modulation of the immune response have also been described [1]. HLA-G variants and plasma levels of the molecule have been investigated in autoimmune and infectious diseases [2]. In COVID-19, some patients experienced immune dysregulation, leading to excessive production of inflammation molecules, triggering the severe and critical forms of the disease [3].

The HLA-G 14-bp indel (rs371194629) variant is associated with IMV requirement in COVID-19 and with exercise-induced desaturation in the post-COVID-19 condition
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