Genetic factors in cold soresAssociations between host genetic variants and Herpes Simplex Labialis in the TwinsUK cohort.
We explored how a specific genetic variant associated with vitamin D might influence the occurrence of cold sores, also known as Herpes Simplex Labialis (HSL). Our research involved nearly 1,800 participants from the TwinsUK registry, with a focus on a group of 595 that completed both blood tests and questionnaires regarding their cold sore experiences.
From the participants surveyed, 235 reported having experienced cold sores at least once, and out of these, 160 indicated that they had recurrent episodes. While we investigated several genetic variants, including three commonly discussed in relation to cold sores, we found no significant links between these particular SNPs and the occurrence or recurrence of cold sores.
However, our analysis did reveal a noteworthy association with a genetic variation in the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) gene. This variant was significantly correlated with both the history of cold sore outbreaks and their frequency. While this suggests a potential relationship between vitamin D-related genetics and cold sore experiences, it does not mean that vitamin D treatment has a proven direct effect on reducing these occurrences.
Overall, our findings provide an intriguing glimpse into the genetic factors that may play a role in cold sore reactivation, especially as it pertains to the VDR gene. Yet, since we didn't explore the direct effects of vitamin D supplementation, more research would be needed to conclusively determine how vitamin D treatment might influence cold sore frequency.
Reduced illness duration
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