An Oct. 26 study in Communications Medicine suggests specific signals from DNA methylation vary between those infected and those not infected with COVID-19, and can indicate the severity of the disease even in the early stages.
Researchers studied peripheral blood samples from 164 COVID-19 patients with longitudinal measurements of disease severity and 296 patient controls.
Specific genetic markers of SARS-CoV-2 infection were found alongside indications of how severe the disease might be.
“We are exploring how this platform could add value to the COVID diagnostic world,” Kathleen Barnes, PhD, lead author and professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, said in a press release. “We think it adds value to knowing what patients develop more serious disease. This could tell you if you could ride out the infection or if it is likely to get worse.”
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
