Study Sheds Light on Autoantibodies Increasing Viral Infection Risks in Aging Population

UZH and USZ researchers find that about 2% of the population develop autoantibodies against type 1 interferons, increasing susceptibility to viral diseases. The study uses a large set of historical blood samples and provides insights into the implications for severe infections like COVID-19.

A groundbreaking study by researchers at the University of Zurich (UZH) and University Hospital Zurich (USZ) has revealed that approximately two percent of the population develop autoantibodies against type 1 interferons, heightening their susceptibility to viral diseases such as COVID-19. This phenomenon predominantly occurs later in life.

Based on an extensive analysis of historical blood samples, the study underscores the critical role of type 1 interferons, proteins that act as early messengers to alert uninfected cells of viral presence. A compromised type 1 interferon system, due to autoantibodies, leaves individuals vulnerable to severe infections.

Utilizing frozen blood samples from the Swiss HIV Cohort Study, researchers found that these autoantibodies typically appear between ages 60 to 65 and can persist for decades. This discovery has significant implications for identifying and protecting high-risk groups through diagnostic tests, vaccines, and antiviral treatments.

(With inputs from agencies.)