Age- and airway disease related gene expression patterns of key SARS-CoV-2 entry factors in human nasal epithelia

The global COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 predominantly affects the elderly. Differential expression of SARS-CoV-2 entry genes may underlie the variable susceptibility in different patient groups. Here, we examined the gene expression of key SARS-CoV-2 entry factors in mucosal biopsies to delineate the roles of age and existing chronic airway disease. A significant inverse correlation between ACE2 and age and a downregulation of NRP1 in patients with airway disease were noted. These results indicate that the interplay between various factors may influence susceptibility and the disease course.