Deciphering COVID-19 Host-Pathogen Interactions: Epitranscriptomic Insights

This study investigates the host-pathogen interactions in COVID-19 by analyzing whole blood transcriptomic profiles using a multi-omic approach. Combining direct RNA sequencing (DRS) and Illumina cDNA sequencing, it captures gene expression levels and RNA modifications such as poly(A) tail length, pseudouridylation, and methylation. The analysis reveals significant alterations in gene expression and RNA modifications in COVID-19 patients compared to healthy controls, providing insights into the complex interplay between viral infection, host immune response, and RNA processing. These findings contribute to understanding COVID-19 pathogenesis and inform the development of therapeutic interventions.