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Genetic predisposition of RSV infection-related respiratory morbidity in preterm infants

Simon B Drysdale1, Michael Prendergast, Mireia Alcazar

  • 1Division of Asthma, Allergy and Lung Biology, MRC-Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, King's College London, London, UK.

European Journal of Pediatrics
|February 4, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Premature infants may have a genetic predisposition to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs). Certain gene variations are linked to increased RSV LRTIs and long-term respiratory issues in these vulnerable infants.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Neonatology
  • Pulmonology

Background:

  • Premature infants are susceptible to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections.
  • RSV infection can lead to significant respiratory morbidity in preterm infants.
  • The genetic basis for this susceptibility and subsequent morbidity is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate if genetic factors predispose prematurely born infants to respiratory morbidity from RSV infections.
  • To identify specific genetic variations (SNPs) associated with RSV lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) and chronic respiratory outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective follow-up of 146 infants born before 36 weeks gestation.
  • Collection of nasopharyngeal aspirates during lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI).
  • Genetic testing for 11 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and assessment of respiratory health and lung function.

Main Results:

  • A specific single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the ADAM33 gene was associated with an increased risk of developing RSV LRTIs.
  • SNPs in IL10, NOS2A, SFTPC, MMP16, and VDR genes were linked to increased chronic respiratory morbidity.
  • Reduced lung function at 1 year was associated with SNPs in MMP16, NOS2A, SFTPC, and VDR in infants with prior RSV LRTIs.

Conclusions:

  • Prematurely born infants may possess a genetic predisposition to RSV LRTIs.
  • This genetic predisposition contributes to subsequent respiratory morbidity, independent of initial lung function.
  • Specific gene variations play a role in both the susceptibility to RSV LRTIs and the development of chronic respiratory issues.
Abstract

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