Researchers have discovered a biomarker that could assist in the early identification of people at high risk of developing severe COVID-19.
Led by computational researchers from WEHI, in collaboration with The University of Queensland, Queensland University of Technology and Hospital Marcelino Champagnat in Brazil, the study used advanced spatial transcriptomic techniques to screen for genes associated with excessive inflammation in the lungs, a key indicator of severe COVID-19.
Recently published in the European Respiratory Journal the findings have the potential to revolutionize the way patients are treated and alleviate pressure on the nation's healthcare system.
The researchers are now participating in an international effort to translate this research into a diagnostic test to identify patients at high-risk of severe COVID-19 during the early stages of their infection, to better target health-care intervention and prevent ICU admissions associated with severe disease.
