Genetic variation is key to fighting viruses

12. Using a genome-wide association study, EPFL scientists have identified subtle genetic changes that can cause substantial differences to how we fight viral infections. When infected with a virus, the response of our immune systems varies widely from person to person. This variation is of great concern, as these differences can determine clinical outcome as well as effectiveness of vaccinations. Comparing the genomes of over 2000 people, scientists from EPFL and the Max Plank Institute have pinpointed a genetic link behind immune variations. Published in the American Journal of Human Genetics , the work connects genetics to antiviral immunity while offering a new path for studying this relationship in other medical contexts. Studying genomes to spot correlations The mapping of the human genome - the complete set of DNA of a single person - in 2001 opened up an immensely complex network of genetic information.