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Mitochondrial Haplogroups as a Risk Factor for Herpes Zoster
Rebecca T Levinson1, Todd Hulgan2, Spyros A Kalams2
1Vanderbilt Genetics Institute.
Open Forum Infectious Diseases
|November 4, 2016
Summary
Mitochondrial DNA haplogroups influence herpes zoster risk. Haplogroup H may offer protection, while haplogroup IWX increases risk, enabling personalized prevention strategies for shingles.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Immunology
- Viral Disease Pathogenesis
Background:
- Herpes zoster (shingles) is a painful viral reactivation.
- Identifying host factors is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate mitochondrial haplogroups as potential host factors influencing herpes zoster incidence.
Main Methods:
- Utilized BioVU DNA biobank and electronic medical records.
- Analyzed 9691 Caucasian individuals with herpes zoster status.
- Determined mitochondrial haplogroups from DNA variants.
Main Results:
- Mitochondrial haplogroup H showed a protective association (OR=0.82, P=0.005).
- Haplogroup clade IWX was identified as a risk factor (OR=1.38, P=0.01).
Conclusions:
- Mitochondrial haplogroups significantly impact herpes zoster risk.
- Patient mitochondrial haplogroup data can inform precision medicine approaches for shingles prevention and management.
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