This study focuses on identifying genetic and biochemical markers (biomarkers) that couldhelp predict the course of COVID-19. The investigators aim to analyze samples taken fromthe nasopharynx (nose and throat), saliva, and blood of patients with acute respiratorytract infections who come to the Outpatient Clinic of the Department of RespiratoryDiseases at the Thomayer University Hospital.The main objectives include measuring the expression of the SAA1 gene (using quantitativeRT-PCR) and conducting broader gene expression analysis (using RNA sequencing) innasopharyngeal cells. At the same time, the investigators will examine the patients' DNAto identify rare genetic variants or common polymorphisms that may influence their immuneresponse to the virus.The goal is to relate the values of SAA expression with clinical and radiological statusand outcome of the patients. The investigators hypothesize, that SAA may predict theseverity of the disease, need for hospitalizastion and outcome of the patients.
This cross-sectional study evaluated nasal SAA1 expression as a biomarker for early
detection and severity assessment of respiratory tract infections, particularly in
COVID-19 patients. A total of 369 participants presenting with infectious or
non-infectious respiratory symptoms to the outpatient clinic were prospectively recruited
between March 6, 2021, and June 26, 2023.
Each patient underwent a single nasopharyngeal swab, which was used both for RT-qPCR
testing of SARS-CoV-2 RNA and for SAA1 expression analysis, ensuring methodological
consistency and direct comparability of results. Additionally, all participants underwent
a chest X-ray, a comprehensive clinical examination, and routine blood and biochemistry
testing.
RNA Extraction and SAA1 mRNA Quantification:
Nasal swabs were collected and stored under RNase-free conditions for RNA extraction. The
relative expression of SAA1 was determined using real-time quantitative polymerase chain
reaction (RT-qPCR).
Diagnostic Test: Nasal swab to collect material for RT-PCR SAA evaluation
Nasal swab for parallel identification of SARS-Cov2 and SAA expression
Inclusion Criteria:
- The patients coming to the outpatient clinic and emergency room of the Department of
Respiratory Diseases in Thomayer Hospital with symptoms of acute respiratory
infection
Exclusion Criteria:
- Inability to sign the informed consent
Thomayer University Hospital, Department of Respiratory Medicine
Prague 3067696, Czechia
Not Provided