Title : A modulation of DNA methylation of vitamin D genes: A connecting link between vitamin D levels and grade of SARS-CoV-2 infection
Abstract:
The mechanistic relationship between the methylation process of the vitamin D gene and its impact on the vitamin D levels and COVID-19 infection severity remains a subject of ongoing investigation. However, lack of vaccine and targeted treatment in initial phase of pandemic has stimulated considerations regarding the potential use of vitamin D as a strategy for managing the disease. Vitamin D genes regulate the vitamin D synthesis through epigenetic changes such as methylation, which affect the various gene expressions. However, it is yet to discover how methylation controls the deficiency status and severity of COVID-19 infection. Therefore, we have investigated the relationship between low levels of vitamin D and the percentage of vitamin D gene methylation in COVID-19 patients. Our study concludes that the percent methylation of the vitamin D genes is associated with vitamin D levels and COVID severity.