A common mutation linked to autoimmune diseases may protect people from viral infections

New research from the University of Kansas shows a "risk gene" linked to higher odds of developing autoimmune diseases such as diabetes or lupus may also provide a survival advantage fighting viral infections like coronavirus. The research centers on a gene called PTPN22, which carries a mutation, 1858C>T (R620W), found in roughly one in 10 people in North America.