Scientists Uncover Genetic Clue to Fighting the Flu

Scientists may have uncovered a genetic clue when it comes to the flu. They've found a genetic marker that can accurately predict which patients will experience more severe disease in a new strain of influenza (H7N9) currently found in China.

Influenza, more commonly known as the flu, can cause symptoms that range from a runny nose to fever. While healthy individuals can usually recover from the flu, those who are elderly or very young or have other complications can experience symptoms that are far more severe and could, if untreated, become life-threatening. That's why researchers are hard at work developing vaccines for the various strains of influenza.

Predicting how influenza works in individuals is important for managing disease and managing the resources of our health system. Knowing exactly which patients could be more drastically impacted by the flu could help researchers target those individuals for vaccination.

"By using genetic markers to blood and lung samples, we have discovered that there are certain indicators that signal increased susceptibility to this influenza," said Katherine Kedzierska, one of the researchers, in a news release. "Higher than normal levels of cytokines, driven by a genetic variant of a protein called IFITM3, tells us that the severe disease is likely."

Currently, the researchers are exploring how genetic sequencing and early detection can allow them to intervene when treating patients. As new cases of the flu emerge, scientists are battling a constant war of staying ahead of the evolving influenza in order to better protect individuals.

The H7N9 strain has only been found in specific areas, but these latest findings are important for better understanding influenza in the future. By learning exactly which individuals may be more drastically impacted, researchers can prepare for the future. In addition, the latest findings may pave the way for future studies on other strains of influenza.