Enzyme Olah Linked to Severe COVID-19, Respiratory Illnesses

A new study from the University of Melbourne has identified a significant link between high levels of the enzyme oleoyl-ACP-hydrolase (Olah) and severe or fatal outcomes in respiratory illnesses such as flu, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). This discovery holds promise for improving how healthcare providers identify and manage at-risk patients.

Led by Katherine Kedzierska, Viral Immunologist, University of Melbourne, the study analyzed blood samples from patients hospitalized with severe cases of these viruses. Results showed that critically ill patients, including those who did not survive, had markedly higher levels of Olah compared to healthy individuals and those with milder symptoms. 

“Everyone has got low levels of Olah, and it is a really important enzyme because it is involved in producing fatty acids, which are components of lipids,” Kedzierska explained. Lipids are crucial for forming cell membranes and storing energy, but excessive Olah production may lead to an overactive immune response and harmful inflammation.

Further research by Brendon Chua, Viral and Translational Immunologist, University of Melbourne, used mouse models to investigate the role of Olah in severe infections. His findings indicated that mice lacking the Olah enzyme experienced less severe infections, reduced lung inflammation, and higher survival rates, reports The Guardian. This suggests that Olah may exacerbate disease severity by triggering excessive inflammation through macrophage activation.

The study's implications have garnered attention from experts in the field. Peter Openshaw, Respiratory Physician and Immunologist, Imperial College London, described the findings as “interesting and exciting science.” He praised the study's credibility but emphasized the need for further research to clarify whether elevated Olah levels are a cause or a consequence of severe disease.

As of April 2024, Worldometer reports that 7 million people worldwide have died from COVID-19, with 334,958 deaths in Mexico alone. In light of these findings, Kedzierska and her team plan to conduct larger studies to evaluate Olah as a predictive marker for severe illness, especially in high-risk groups such as pregnant women and individuals with comorbidities like obesity. They are also developing Olah-based diagnostic methods to enhance patient screening and care strategies, highlights the study.