Genetic analysis of thousands of coronavirus patients may explain huge differences in case severity

The entire genetic code of up to 35,000 coronavirus sufferers will be analysed to find out why some people nearly die from the virus while others do not even get symptoms, and whether genetic factors are putting black and minority ethnic (BAME) groups in danger.

Scientists believe variations in genes may be behind the huge differences in how people experience the illness.

Knowing which people are more susceptible could allow for more to either be shielded or released from restrictions, and may even help doctors to tailor drugs to individuals.

It is hoped the Government-backed project will enroll 20,000 patients from 171 NHS intensive care units across Britain whose genomes will be compared to 15,000 people with a mild infection. 

DNA samples have so far been collected from almost 2,000 patients. The first results are expected in the autumn, in time to help with a second virus wave if one emerges.

Professor Sir Mark Caulfield, the chief scientist at Genomics England, said: "People exposed to Covid-19 have very different responses. For some, it's severe and life-threatening, and other people have asymptomatic or mild disorder.

"So we want to understand if there is something hidden in the three billion letters of our DNA that gives us the propensity for a severe outcome. By looking for these variants, it may allow us to identify potential therapies in a second or third wave of this infection and even give us new insights into the biology of disease."

Researchers are particularly keen to examine whether the genes of BAME groups put them in more danger after data showed they were at disproportionate risk in the epidemic. 

"We're making a huge effort to enrol from every community and we would encourage people who represent the diversity of our nation," added Sir Mark. "This is a global problem, but Britain can stand up and do something for the whole planet."

The team will also link the results to trial data on drugs being tested in coronavirus patients in Britain's hospitals to see whether genetic make up changes how well people respond to treatments.

Part of the study will also focus on children and young adults severely affected by Covid-19.

Matt Hancock, the Health Secretary, said: "As each day passes we are learning more about this virus, and understanding how genetic make-up may influence how people react to it is a critical piece of the jigsaw.

"This is a groundbreaking and far-reaching study which will harness the UK's world-leading genomics science to improve treatments and ultimately save lives across the world."

Some £28 million has been pledged for the project by Genomics England, UK Research and Innovation, the Department of Health and Social Care and the National Institute for Health Research.

Public Health England and the Sanger Institute are already sequencing the genome of the virus itself and it is hoped information from the two studies can be linked to see how the patient and viral genome influence each other.

To register visit genomicsengland.co.uk/covid-19/