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Age-dependent ACE2/TMPRSS2 expression and SARS-CoV-2 household transmission in Gran Canaria

  • 0Department of Pediatrics, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario Insular Materno Infantil de Canarias (CHUIMI), Las Palmas de GC, Canary Islands, Spain.
Plos One +

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July 29, 2025

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July 29, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

COVID-19 susceptibility and severity are not strongly linked to ACE2 or TMPRSS2 gene expression. Children show lower susceptibility and milder COVID-19 illness, with younger age increasing household transmission risk.

Area Of Science

  • Virology
  • Immunology
  • Epidemiology

Background

  • Investigating the role of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) and Transmembrane Serine Protease 2 (TMPRSS2) in COVID-19 pathogenesis.
  • Assessing the influence of these genes on disease susceptibility and severity across different age groups.
  • Understanding the transmission dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 within households, particularly the role of children.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To determine if ACE2 and TMPRSS2 gene expression correlates with COVID-19 susceptibility and severity.
  • To evaluate the impact of age on these associations.
  • To analyze the role of children in the household transmission of SARS-CoV-2.

Main Methods

  • Cross-sectional observational study of 258 households (650 individuals, including 89 children).
  • Combined serological testing for SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmation.
  • Quantification of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 gene expression from saliva samples.
  • Collection of demographic, clinical, and household exposure data.

Main Results

  • Combined serology improved diagnostic sensitivity by 10%.
  • ACE2 expression showed no significant association with age, antibody titers, or symptom severity after correction. TMPRSS2 expression did not correlate with any variable.
  • Children exhibited lower infection rates (OR=0.56), milder symptoms, and reduced disease severity. Younger age and sharing a bedroom were risk factors for transmission.

Conclusions

  • ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expression levels do not appear to be strongly associated with COVID-19 susceptibility or severity.
  • Children are less susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection and generally experience a milder disease course.