Telomere Length and COVID-19 Severity: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study Across the Clinical Spectrum

Area of Science:

• Genetics and Molecular Biology
• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Telomere attrition is associated with immune function and susceptibility to infections.
• The relationship between telomere length and COVID-19 severity is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between telomere length and the severity of COVID-19.
• To explore telomere length as a potential biomarker for COVID-19 outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 139 participants (controls, non-severe COVID-19, severe COVID-19) aged 30-75.
• Telomere length was measured using a quantitative PCR-based method (T/S ratio).
• Clinical, biochemical, demographic, and respiratory parameters were assessed.

Main Results:

• Severe COVID-19 patients exhibited significantly shorter telomeres compared to non-severe patients and controls (p < 0.001).
• Telomere length was independently associated with COVID-19 disease severity (p < 0.001).
• Females had longer telomeres than males (p = 0.039); no age correlation was found.

Conclusions:

• Shortened telomeres may be associated with more severe forms of COVID-19.
• Telomere biology could play a role in the progression of COVID-19.
• Further research is needed on telomere dynamics as a biomarker for viral infection susceptibility and outcomes.