INTRODUCTION

Recent studies have underscored the importance of genetic factors in predicting COVID-19 susceptibility and severity. While cytokine storms are crucial in disease severity, genetic predisposition significantly influences immune responses. Our study examined genes related to SARS-CoV-2 invasion ) and interferon-induced immunity (). Additionally, we investigated genes linked to Kawasaki disease () that play roles in immunogenesis.

METHODS

The pilot study, which involved 75 pediatric patients aged one month to 17 years [43 patients with active COVID-19, 17 children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), and 15 healthy controls], was conducted in Ternopil, Ukraine. Gene polymorphism was studied for all patients. ELISA kits were used for interleukin studies, including Human IL-1β (Interleukin 1 Beta), Human IL-6 (Interleukin 6), Human IL-8 (Interleukin 8), Human IL-12 (Interleukin 12), Human IFN-α (Interferon Alpha), and Human TNF-α (Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha). Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 21 and GraphPad Prism 8.4.3.

RESULTS

The analysis identified significant gene-cytokine associations in pediatric COVID-19 patients. The T allele correlated with increased IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α. The A allele was linked to elevated IL-1β and IL-12 levels and low IFN-α levels, while A allele carriers also exhibited lower IFN-α levels. was prognostically crucial for determining IL-8 levels in children infected with SARS-CoV-2. gene polymorphism was associated with changes in IL-6 levels, precisely a high level. The T allele increased IFN-α levels, while carriers of allele C had higher levels of IL-12. The results of our study revealed a correlation between IL-8 levels and the gene polymorphism (A/G). The gene polymorphism led to an increase in IL-6.

CONCLUSION

These findings enhance our understanding of pediatric COVID-19 and may hold promise for developing targeted interventions and providing a personalized medical approach for each patient.