Innovative Challenge Trial Uncovers COVID Protection Gene

British researchers conducted a challenge trial infecting 36 young, unvaccinated individuals with SARS-CoV-2 to understand immune response dynamics. Out of 36, only 6 participants fell ill, revealing surprising insights. Further analysis identified that 10 individuals never tested positive for the virus - 7 of whom remained completely virus-free, while 3 showed transient infection. The study uncovered elevated activity of the HLA-DQA2 gene in those who remained healthy, indicating potential resistance to infection. Intriguing findings also highlighted differences in the timing of interferon response among individuals based on their genetic profile.