TMPRSS2-Coagulation Nexus: A Novel Molecular Link Revealed by Pairwise Correlation Analysis Following AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19) Vaccination in a Nigerian Cohort

The study examined molecular mechanisms linking TMPRSS2 expression to coagulation changes following AstraZeneca vaccination in 102 adults in Nigeria (51 vaccinated at least 6 months prior and 51 unvaccinated controls). Researchers performed blood analysis, coagulation testing, and genetic tests to measure ACE2 and TMPRSS2 levels. Results showed a statistically significant inverse correlation between TMPRSS2 levels and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) in vaccinated participants (r = -0.325, p = 0.0202), while this association was not detected in unvaccinated controls. Sex-specific differences in TMPRSS2 expression were also observed. No severe thrombotic or hemorrhagic complications were reported during the study. The authors conclude that although causality cannot be confirmed, the findings suggest a potential relationship between TMPRSS2 expression and coagulation processes following vaccination.