The association of FokI rs2228570 and TaqI rs731236 polymorphisms with SARS-CoV-2 symptoms

Since its emergence in 2019, the SARS-CoV-2 virus has led to the global COVID-19 pandemic, posing challenges for countries worldwide. Extensive research has been conducted across various fields to address this virus, focusing on diagnostics, treatments, and vaccine development. Therefore, it is crucial to implement healthcare strategies aimed at reducing infection probability, disease progression, and severity. This study explores the impact of vitamin D receptor (VDR) genetic polymorphisms, specifically FokI and TaqI, on the susceptibility and severity of COVID-19. The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed increased interest in the potential role of vitamin D in the immune response, with several studies suggesting a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of contracting COVID-19. A cross-sectional study was conducted, The association of FokI rs2228570 and TaqI rs731236 polymorphisms with SARS-CoV-2 symptoms in 200 patients, 101 among them was SARS-CoV-2-infected identified through real-time PCR. The study analysed the genotypic frequencies of the FokI and TaqI polymorphisms in COVID-19 positive populations and control groups. The results showed that the FokI polymorphism was significantly different between the groups: the GG genotype was more frequent in COVID-19-positive individuals, suggesting a possible association with increased susceptibility to infection, while the GA genotype was less frequent in infected individuals, indicating potentially reduced susceptibility. In contrast, no significant difference was found for the TaqI polymorphism. Although other studies have found associations between VDR polymorphisms and the severity of COVID-19, the results of this study suggest that the impact of FokI and TaqI polymorphisms may vary between populations. The researchers conclude that the role of VDR polymorphisms in COVID-19 susceptibility requires further research in diverse populations to better understand the genetic factors influencing COVID-19 outcomes, which could guide personalised prevention and treatment strategies.