Scientists in their research have found out why COVID-19 mainly affects adults and older people while young children are less prone to the virus. According to a US team of researchers, including those from the Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC), lower levels of receptor protein in children protects them from the virus. The COVID-19 virus uses receptor protein as a medium to attack the epithelial cells in the lung said the research. According to the study, receptor protein on the surfaces of certain lung cells spike after a particle containing coronavirus is inhaled into the lungs making the person more vulnerable. Bryce Schuler, another co-author of the study, said that the gene for ACE2 - a receptor protein on the surfaces of certain lung cells - was expressed at low levels.

Source: dna November 15, 2020 11:14 UTC