Bulk RNA sequencing for analysis of post COVID-19 condition in adolescents and young adults

Abstract

Background Post COVID19 condition (PCC) is a complication of SARSCOV2 infection and can lead to longterm disability.

Methods The present study was designed to analyse the gene expression patterns of PCC through bulk RNA sequencing of whole blood and to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of PCC. Whole blood was collected from 80 participants enrolled in a prospective cohort study following SARSCoV2 infected and non-infected individuals for 6 months after recruitment and was used for bulk RNA sequencing. Identification of differentially expressed genes (DEG), pathway enrichment and immune cell deconvolution was performed to explore potential biological pathways involved in PCC.

Results We have found 13 differentially expressed genes associated with PCC. Enriched pathways were related to interferon - signalling and antiviral immune processes.

Conclusion The PCC transcriptome is characterized by a modest overexpression of interferon-stimulated genes, pointing to a subtle ongoing inflammatory response.