LZTFL1

The LZTFL1 is Leucine zipper transcription factor like 1. It is a human gene.

About LZTFL1

• The gene regulates protein trafficking. Protein trafficking means transporting proteins throughout the cells.
• It is a tumor suppressor gene.
• The mutations in LZTFL1 causes Bardet Biedl syndrome.
• The gene is located in chromosome 3 in human beings.
• The LZTFL1 was inherited by the homo sapiens from the Neanderthals.

LZTFL1 relation with COVID-19

In November 2021, researchers found that the LZTFL1 gene doubles the risk of respiratory failures in COVID-19. This gene is found in more than 60% of South Asians. On the other hand, only 15% of Europeans and 2% of Africans and Caribbeans carry this gene. This explains that the Asians are more susceptible to COVID-19 virus. The researchers found that the gene prevents the cells lining the lungs and the airway from responding to COVID-19 virus. Thus, the risk of respiratory failure increases. The gene affects only the responses of lungs and not its immune system.