HLA-B potential associations with the of COVID-19 disease in Iraqi population

Abstract

Background: Host genetic factors, particularly polymorphisms in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) region, have been implicated in influencing individual susceptibility to infectious diseases, including COVID-19. This study aim to investigated the distribution of HLA-B alleles in an Iraqi cohort to determine their association with COVID-19 susceptibility.

Methods: Using a sequence specific oligonucleotide (SSO-PCR) assay, we genotyped HLA‑B alleles in COVID-19 patients and control individuals. Allelic frequencies were compared between groups, and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and corresponding p-values were calculated to assess the strength of associations.

Results: The analysis revealed no broad, statistically significant associations between specific HLA-B alleles and COVID-19 susceptibility. However, HLA-B*52:01 was found to be more prevalent in COVID-19 patients compared to healthy controls, suggesting a potential link between this allele and increased susceptibility to the virus.

Conclusion: This study highlights the potential role of HLA-B alleles in COVID-19 susceptibility within the Iraqi population. Although no widespread associations were found, the findings indicate a need for continued research—particularly to explore the immunogenetics mechanisms involved and their relevance to personalized treatment strategies.