COVID and Malignancy: the possible genetic and epigenetic links

Background Malignancy is one of the prime global causes of mortality. Cancer Patients suffering from SARS-CoV-2 have demonstrated higher rates of severe complications exacerbating towards death. Possible genetic and epigenetic alterations may exist in cancer patients which may be responsible for their increased vulnerability towards COVID-19. Method An exhaustive literature search using ‘COVID-19’, ‘SARS-CoV-2’, ‘Cancer’, ‘Malignancy’, ‘Relationships’, Interlinks’, ‘Genetic’, ‘Epigenetic’, ‘Epidemiological studies’, ‘Clinical Studies’, ‘Vaccination’, ‘Vaccine scenario’ were conducted in PubMed and EMBASE till 2nd June, 2021. Result In this narrative review, 17 epidemiological studies were listed which focused on clinical parameters of several malignancy patient cohorts who contracted COVID-19. Besides, genetic and epigenetic alterations seen among cancer patients are also discussed which may plausibly increase their vulnerability to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Also, global vaccination scenario among malignant patients along with the necessity to prioritize them in the vaccination campaigns are also elaborated. Conclusion Genetic and epigenetic modifications present in ACE2, TMPRSS2, IL-6 and several cytokines require more in-depth research to elucidate the shared mechanisms of malignancy and SARS-CoV-2.