Second, another human protein TMPRSS2 (type II transmembrane serine protease) breaks the S1-S2 junction in the spike protein to allow the genetic material of the virus to enter the human cell. Now, we have shown that the reason for higher spread is the deficiency of AAT protein,” said Biswas. He said, “Even among the European population, the AAT deficiency is highest among those in Spain and Italy. And, Italy saw one of the biggest outbreaks initially.”The study has found a co-relation between the levels of AAT and the disease spread. “This is the first time a co-relation has been established between this protein and the spread of Covid-19.

Source: Hindustan Times February 10, 2021 03:39 UTC