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Disease severity in respiratory syncytial virus infection: Role of host genetic variation

Alireza Tahamtan1,2, Fatemeh Sana Askari1, Louis Bont3

  • 1Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.

Reviews in Medical Virology
|January 5, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Host genetic diversity influences individual responses to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection, impacting disease severity. Understanding these genetic factors is key to managing pediatric RSV disease.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Genetics
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of severe respiratory illness in children globally.
  • Disease severity in RSV infection is highly variable, influenced by a complex interplay of host, viral, and environmental factors.
  • Host genetic factors play a critical role in determining an individual's susceptibility and response to RSV infection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of host genetic variation in the context of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease.
  • To identify potential genetic risk factors contributing to severe RSV infections in early childhood.
  • To emphasize the influence of genetic diversity on immune responses during RSV infection.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on host genetic factors and RSV pathogenesis.
  • Analysis of studies investigating the link between genetic variations and RSV disease outcomes.
  • Synthesis of findings on the role of host immune response regulation.

Main Results:

  • Host genetic diversity significantly impacts the balance between viral control and tissue damage during RSV infection.
  • Individual responses to RSV infection are largely determined by genetic variations affecting immune response regulation.
  • Genetic factors are crucial determinants of disease severity and outcome in pediatric RSV cases.

Conclusions:

  • Host genetic variation is a key determinant of individual susceptibility and disease severity in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections.
  • Further genetic association and functional studies are needed to fully elucidate the role of host genetics in RSV pathogenesis.
  • Understanding genetic risk factors can lead to improved strategies for managing and preventing severe RSV disease in children.

Keywords:
diseases severityhost genetic variationimmunopathologynucleotide polymorphismrespiratory syncytial virus

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