Scientists at Taiwan's Mackay Memorial Hospital have analyzed genetic samples from severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) patients and healthy people, and though their study was small, they say they have found evidence that SARS may be deadlier to those possessing a gene found in 10 percent to 15 percent of those with southern Chinese ancestry. The study is a possible beginning for more research that could increase scientists' understanding of SARS and how it spreads. "The gene seems to be related to infection rates, but we would need a bigger sample," says Dr. Marie Lin.