Disease resistance

For example, the Mx1 gene directly encodes a protein that blocks the replication of some viruses, such as influenza, providing natural resistance in certain organisms (like mice).

[4] Similarly, Toll-like receptors (TLRs), which are naturally occurring proteins, are critical in recognizing pathogen-associated molecules, (including microbial and viral threats), and triggering immune responses.

[5] Notably, variations or specific alleles in these genes can strengthen the body’s ability to combat infections, showing how genetic traits can further contribute to innate immunity and pathogen resistance.

[7] These disorders exist due to alpha- or beta-globin gene mutations,[6] causing symptoms of moderate to severe anemia, organ damage, and reliance on blood transfusion for survival.

Hemoglobinopathies provide an uncommon resistance against malarial infection, allowing an increased fitness of these mutations in regions where the mortality risk of malaria is high.