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Suster D, Tili E, Nuovo GJ. The differential immune response in mild versus fatal SARS-CoV2 infection. Ann Diagn Pathol 2022; 61:152032. [PMID: 36113259 PMCID: PMC9436872 DOI: 10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2022.152032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
This study compared the immune response in mild versus fatal SARS-CoV2 infection. Forty nasopharyngeal swabs with either productive mild infection (n = 20) or negative for SARS-CoV2 (n = 20) were tested along with ten lung sections from people who died of COVID-19 which contained abundant SARS-CoV2 and ten controls. There was a 25-fold increase in the CD3+T cell numbers in the viral positive nasopharyngeal swabs compared to the controls (p < 0.001) and no change in the CD3+T cell count in the fatal COVID-19 lungs versus the controls. CD11b + and CD206+ macrophage counts were significantly higher in the mild versus fatal disease (p = 0.002). In situ analysis for SARS-CoV2 RNA found ten COVID-19 lung sections that had no/rare detectable virus and also lacked the microangiopathy typical of the viral positive sections. These viral negative lung tissues when compared to the viral positive lung samples showed a highly significant increase in CD3+ and CD8 T cells (p < 0.001), equivalent numbers of CD163+ cells, and significantly less PDL1, CD11b and CD206+ cells (p = 0.002). It is concluded that mild SARS-CoV2 infection is marked by a much stronger CD3/CD8 T cell, CD11b, and CD206 macrophage response than the fatal lung disease where viral RNA is abundant.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Suster
- Rutgers University Hospital Department of Pathology, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Esmerina Tili
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Gerard J Nuovo
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA; GnomeDX, Powell, OH, USA.
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52
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Giannella A, Riccetti S, Sinigaglia A, Piubelli C, Razzaboni E, Di Battista P, Agostini M, Dal Molin E, Manganelli R, Gobbi F, Ceolotto G, Barzon L. Circulating microRNA signatures associated with disease severity and outcome in COVID-19 patients. Front Immunol 2022; 13:968991. [PMID: 36032130 PMCID: PMC9403711 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.968991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background SARS-CoV-2 induces a spectrum of clinical conditions ranging from asymptomatic infection to life threatening severe disease. Host microRNAs have been involved in the cytokine storm driven by SARS-CoV-2 infection and proposed as candidate biomarkers for COVID-19. Methods To discover signatures of circulating miRNAs associated with COVID-19, disease severity and mortality, small RNA-sequencing was performed on serum samples collected from 89 COVID-19 patients (34 severe, 29 moderate, 26 mild) at hospital admission and from 45 healthy controls (HC). To search for possible sources of miRNAs, investigation of differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs in relevant human cell types in vitro. Results COVID-19 patients showed upregulation of miRNAs associated with lung disease, vascular damage and inflammation and downregulation of miRNAs that inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, angiogenesis, and stress response. Compared with mild/moderate disease, patients with severe COVID-19 had a miRNA signature indicating a profound impairment of innate and adaptive immune responses, inflammation, lung fibrosis and heart failure. A subset of the DE miRNAs predicted mortality. In particular, a combination of high serum miR-22-3p and miR-21-5p, which target antiviral response genes, and low miR-224-5p and miR-155-5p, targeting pro-inflammatory factors, discriminated severe from mild/moderate COVID-19 (AUROC 0.88, 95% CI 0.80-0.95, p<0.0001), while high leukocyte count and low levels of miR-1-3p, miR-23b-3p, miR-141-3p, miR-155-5p and miR-4433b-5p predicted mortality with high sensitivity and specificity (AUROC 0.95, 95% CI 0.89-1.00, p<0.0001). In vitro experiments showed that some of the DE miRNAs were modulated directly by SARS-CoV-2 infection in permissive lung epithelial cells. Conclusions We discovered circulating miRNAs associated with COVID-19 severity and mortality. The identified DE miRNAs provided clues on COVID-19 pathogenesis, highlighting signatures of impaired interferon and antiviral responses, inflammation, organ damage and cardiovascular failure as associated with severe disease and death.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia Riccetti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Piubelli
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Elisa Razzaboni
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Piero Di Battista
- Maternal and Child Health Department, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Matteo Agostini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Riccardo Manganelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Padova University Hospital, Padova, Italy
| | - Federico Gobbi
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Luisa Barzon
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Padova University Hospital, Padova, Italy
- *Correspondence: Luisa Barzon,
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53
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Ahamed J, Laurence J. Long COVID endotheliopathy: hypothesized mechanisms and potential therapeutic approaches. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:e161167. [PMID: 35912863 PMCID: PMC9337829 DOI: 10.1172/jci161167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals may suffer a multi-organ system disorder known as "long COVID" or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC). There are no standard treatments, the pathophysiology is unknown, and incidence varies by clinical phenotype. Acute COVID-19 correlates with biomarkers of systemic inflammation, hypercoagulability, and comorbidities that are less prominent in PASC. Macrovessel thrombosis, a hallmark of acute COVID-19, is less frequent in PASC. Female sex at birth is associated with reduced risk for acute COVID-19 progression, but with increased risk of PASC. Persistent microvascular endotheliopathy associated with cryptic SARS-CoV-2 tissue reservoirs has been implicated in PASC pathology. Autoantibodies, localized inflammation, and reactivation of latent pathogens may also be involved, potentially leading to microvascular thrombosis, as documented in multiple PASC tissues. Diagnostic assays illuminating possible therapeutic targets are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasimuddin Ahamed
- Cardiovascular Biology Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Jeffrey Laurence
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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Abstract
COVID-19 is a primary respiratory illness that is frequently complicated by systemic involvement of the vasculature. Vascular involvement leads to an array of complications ranging from thrombosis to pulmonary edema secondary to loss of barrier function. This review will address the vasculopathy of COVID-19 with a focus on the role of the endothelium in orchestrating the systemic response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. The endothelial receptor systems and molecular pathways activated in the setting of COVID-19 and the consequences of these inflammatory and prothrombotic changes on endothelial cell function will be discussed. The sequelae of COVID-19 vascular involvement at the level of organ systems will also be addressed, with an emphasis on the pulmonary vasculature but with consideration of effects on other vascular beds. The dramatic changes in endothelial phenotypes associated with COVID-19 has enabled the identification of biomarkers that could help guide therapy and predict outcomes. Knowledge of vascular pathogenesis in COVID-19 has also informed therapeutic approaches that may control its systemic sequelae. Because our understanding of vascular response in COVID-19 continues to evolve, we will consider areas of controversy, such as the extent to which SARS-CoV-2 directly infects endothelium and the degree to which vascular responses to SARS-CoV-2 are unique or common to those of other viruses capable of causing severe respiratory disease. This conceptual framework describing how SARS-CoV-2 infection affects endothelial inflammation, prothrombotic transformation, and barrier dysfunction will provide a context for interpreting new information as it arises addressing the vascular complications of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alec A Schmaier
- Division of Hemostasis and Thrombosis and
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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55
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Trougakos IP, Terpos E, Alexopoulos H, Politou M, Paraskevis D, Scorilas A, Kastritis E, Andreakos E, Dimopoulos MA. Adverse effects of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines: the spike hypothesis. Trends Mol Med 2022; 28:542-554. [PMID: 35537987 PMCID: PMC9021367 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2022.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Vaccination is a major tool for mitigating the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, and mRNA vaccines are central to the ongoing vaccination campaign that is undoubtedly saving thousands of lives. However, adverse effects (AEs) following vaccination have been noted which may relate to a proinflammatory action of the lipid nanoparticles used or the delivered mRNA (i.e., the vaccine formulation), as well as to the unique nature, expression pattern, binding profile, and proinflammatory effects of the produced antigens - spike (S) protein and/or its subunits/peptide fragments - in human tissues or organs. Current knowledge on this topic originates mostly from cell-based assays or from model organisms; further research on the cellular/molecular basis of the mRNA vaccine-induced AEs will therefore promise safety, maintain trust, and direct health policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis P Trougakos
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, 157 84, Greece.
| | - Evangelos Terpos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Alexandra General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, 115 28, Greece
| | - Harry Alexopoulos
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, 157 84, Greece
| | - Marianna Politou
- Hematology Laboratory-Blood Bank, Aretaieio Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 28, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Paraskevis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas Scorilas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, 157 01, Greece
| | - Efstathios Kastritis
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Alexandra General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, 115 28, Greece
| | - Evangelos Andreakos
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Center for Clinical, Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, 115 27, Greece
| | - Meletios A Dimopoulos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Alexandra General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, 115 28, Greece
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Richter RP, Ashtekar AR, Zheng L, Pretorius D, Kaushlendra T, Sanderson RD, Gaggar A, Richter JR. Glycocalyx heparan sulfate cleavage promotes endothelial cell angiopoietin-2 expression by impairing shear stress-related AMPK/FoxO1 signaling. JCI Insight 2022; 7:155010. [PMID: 35763350 PMCID: PMC9462499 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.155010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) is a key mediator of vascular disease during sepsis, and elevated plasma levels of Ang-2 are associated with organ injury scores and poor clinical outcomes. We have previously observed that biomarkers of endothelial glycocalyx (EG) damage correlate with plasma Ang-2 levels, suggesting a potential mechanistic linkage between EG injury and Ang-2 expression during states of systemic inflammation. However, the cell signaling mechanisms regulating Ang-2 expression following EG damage are unknown. In the current study, we determined the temporal associations between plasma heparan sulfate (HS) levels as a marker of EG erosion and plasma Ang-2 levels in children with sepsis and in mouse models of sepsis. Secondly, we evaluated the role of shear stress-mediated 5'-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling in Ang-2 expression following enzymatic HS cleavage from the surface of human primary lung microvascular endothelial cells (HLMVEC). We found that plasma HS levels peak prior to plasma Ang-2 levels in children and mice with sepsis. Further, we discovered that impaired AMPK signaling contributes to increased Ang-2 expression following HS cleavage from flow conditioned HLMVECs, establishing a novel paradigm by which Ang-2 may be upregulated during sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert P Richter
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, United States of America
| | - Amit R Ashtekar
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, United States of America
| | - Lei Zheng
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, United States of America
| | - Danielle Pretorius
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, United States of America
| | - Tripathi Kaushlendra
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, United States of America
| | - Ralph D Sanderson
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, United States of America
| | - Amit Gaggar
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, United States of America
| | - Jillian R Richter
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, United States of America
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Current Evidence in SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccines and Post-Vaccination Adverse Reports: Knowns and Unknowns. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12071555. [PMID: 35885461 PMCID: PMC9316835 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12071555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The novel mRNA vaccinations against COVID-19 are gaining worldwide attention for their potential efficacy, as well as for the diagnosis of some post-vaccination-reported adverse reactions. In this state-of-the-art review article, we present the current evidence regarding mainly the diagnosis of spontaneous allergic reactions, the skin occurrences, the vascular, blood, endocrine and heart events, the respiratory reports, the gastrointestinal, hepatic and kidney events, the reproductive and pregnancy issues and the muscle events, as well as the ear, eye, neurologic and psychiatric events following mRNA vaccination against COVID-19. We further present some evidence regarding the mRNA strategies, we provide important information for side effects associated with the spike protein based LNP-mRNA vaccine and its adjuvants, as well as evidence for all the possible dangerous roles of the spike protein, and we discuss our expert opinion on the knowns and the unknowns towards the topic.
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58
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Savelieff MG, Feldman EL, Stino AM. Neurological sequela and disruption of neuron-glia homeostasis in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 168:105715. [PMID: 35364273 PMCID: PMC8963977 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is responsible for 267 million infections and over 5 million deaths globally. COVID-19 is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a single-stranded RNA beta-coronavirus, which causes a systemic inflammatory response, multi-organ damage, and respiratory failure requiring intubation in serious cases. SARS-CoV-2 can also trigger neurological conditions and syndromes, which can be long-lasting and potentially irreversible. Since COVID-19 infections continue to mount, the burden of SARS-CoV-2-induced neurologic sequalae will rise in parallel. Therefore, understanding the spectrum of neurological clinical presentations in SARS-CoV-2 is needed to manage COVID-19 patients, facilitate diagnosis, and expedite earlier treatment to improve outcomes. Furthermore, a deeper knowledge of the neurological SARS-CoV-2 pathomechanisms could uncover potential therapeutic targets to prevent or mitigate neurologic damage secondary to COVID-19 infection. Evidence indicates a multifaceted pathology involving viral neurotropism and direct neuroinvasion along with cytokine storm and neuroinflammation leading to nerve injury. Importantly, pathological processes in neural tissue are non-cell autonomous and occur through a concerted breakdown in neuron-glia homeostasis, spanning neuron axonal damage, astrogliosis, microgliosis, and impaired neuron-glia communication. A clearer mechanistic and molecular picture of neurological pathology in SARS-CoV-2 may lead to effective therapies that prevent or mitigate neural damage in patients contracting and developing severe COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masha G Savelieff
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America.
| | - Eva L Feldman
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America; Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America; Division of Neuromuscular Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America.
| | - Amro M Stino
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America; Division of Neuromuscular Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America.
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59
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Keep RF, Jones HC, Drewes LR. Advances in brain barriers and brain fluids research in 2021: great progress in a time of adversity. Fluids Barriers CNS 2022; 19:48. [PMID: 35681151 PMCID: PMC9178944 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-022-00343-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
This editorial highlights advances in brain barrier and brain fluid research in 2021. It covers research on components of the blood–brain barrier, neurovascular unit and brain fluid systems; how brain barriers and brain fluid systems are impacted by neurological disorders and their role in disease progression; and advances in strategies for treating such disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard F Keep
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, R5018 BSRB, 109 Zina Pitcher Place, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2200, USA.
| | | | - Lester R Drewes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School Duluth, Duluth, MN, 55812, USA
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60
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Valizadeh N, Rudmann E, Solomon IH, Mukerji SS. Mechanisms of Entry Into the Central Nervous System by Neuroinvasive Pathogens. J Neuroophthalmol 2022; 42:163-172. [PMID: 35195546 PMCID: PMC9124664 DOI: 10.1097/wno.0000000000001455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The literature on neurological manifestations, cerebrospinal fluid analyses, and autopsies in patients with COVID-19 continues to grow. The proposed mechanisms for neurological disease in patients with COVID-19 include indirect processes such as inflammation, microvascular injury, and hypoxic-ischemic damage. An alternate hypothesis suggests direct viral entry of SARS-CoV-2 into the brain and cerebrospinal fluid, given varying reports regarding isolation of viral components from these anatomical sites. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION PubMed, Google Scholar databases, and neuroanatomical textbooks were manually searched and reviewed. RESULTS We provide clinical concepts regarding the mechanisms of viral pathogen invasion in the central nervous system (CNS); advances in our mechanistic understanding of CNS invasion in well-known neurotropic pathogens can aid in understanding how viruses evolve strategies to enter brain parenchyma. We also present the structural components of CNS compartments that influence viral entry, focusing on hematogenous and transneuronal spread, and discuss this evidence as it relates to our understanding of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). CONCLUSIONS Although there is a paucity of data supporting direct viral entry of SARS-CoV-2 in humans, increasing our knowledge of the structural components of CNS compartments that block viral entry and pathways exploited by pathogens is fundamental to preparing clinicians and researchers for what to expect when a novel emerging virus with neurological symptoms establishes infection in the CNS, and how to design therapeutics to mitigate such an infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navid Valizadeh
- Division of Neuroimmunology and Neuro-infectious Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- John C Lincoln Hospital, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Emily Rudmann
- Division of Neuroimmunology and Neuro-infectious Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Isaac H. Solomon
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Shibani S. Mukerji
- Division of Neuroimmunology and Neuro-infectious Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura P M H de Rooij
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium (L.P.M.H.d.R., L.M.B., P.C.)
| | - Lisa M Becker
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium (L.P.M.H.d.R., L.M.B., P.C.)
| | - Peter Carmeliet
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Center for Cancer Biology, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie and Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium (L.P.M.H.d.R., L.M.B., P.C.)
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China (P.C.)
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Heterogeneity, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Denmark (P.C.)
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (P.C.)
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Raghavan S, Leo MD. Histamine Potentiates SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Entry Into Endothelial Cells. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:872736. [PMID: 35548336 PMCID: PMC9084361 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.872736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is one of the most serious global health crises in recent history. COVID-19 patient symptoms range from life-threatening to mild and asymptomatic, which presents unique problems in identifying, quarantining, and treating the affected individuals. The emergence of unusual symptoms among survivors, now referred to as “Long COVID”, is concerning, especially since much about the condition and the treatment of it is still relatively unknown. Evidence so far also suggests that some of these symptoms can be attributed to vascular inflammation. Although famotidine, the commonly used histamine H2 receptor (H2R) blocker, was shown to have no antiviral activity, recent reports indicate that it could prevent adverse outcomes in COVID-19 patients. Histamine is a classic proinflammatory mediator, the levels of which increase along with other cytokines during COVID-19 infection. Histamine activates H2R signaling, while famotidine specifically blocks H2R activation. Investigating the effects of recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein S1 Receptor-Binding Domain (Spike) on ACE2 expression in cultured human coronary artery endothelial cells, we found that the presence of histamine potentiated spike-mediated ACE2 internalization into endothelial cells. This effect was blocked by famotidine, protein kinase A inhibition, or by H2 receptor protein knockdown. Together, these results indicate that histamine and histamine receptor signaling is likely essential for spike protein to induce ACE2 internalization in endothelial cells and cause endothelial dysfunction and that this effect can be blocked by the H2R blocker, famotidine.
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63
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MacDougall M, El-Hajj Sleiman J, Beauchemin P, Rangachari M. SARS-CoV-2 and Multiple Sclerosis: Potential for Disease Exacerbation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:871276. [PMID: 35572514 PMCID: PMC9102605 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.871276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
While the respiratory tract is the primary route of entry for SARS-CoV-2, evidence shows that the virus also impacts the central nervous system. Intriguingly, case reports have documented SARS-CoV-2 patients presenting with demyelinating lesions in the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve, suggesting possible implications in neuroimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and other related neuroimmune disorders. However, the cellular mechanisms underpinning these observations remain poorly defined. The goal of this paper was to review the literature to date regarding possible links between SARS-CoV-2 infection and neuroimmune demyelinating diseases such as MS and its related disorders, with the aim of positing a hypothesis for disease exacerbation. The literature suggests that SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2, and orthologous murine coronaviruses invade the CNS via the olfactory bulb, spreading to connected structures via retrograde transport. We hypothesize that a glial inflammatory response may contribute to damaged oligodendrocytes and blood brain barrier (BBB) breakdown, allowing a second route for CNS invasion and lymphocyte infiltration. Potential for molecular mimicry and the stimulation of autoreactive T cells against myelin is also described. It is imperative that further studies on SARS-CoV-2 neuroinvasion address the adverse effects of the virus on myelin and exacerbation of MS symptoms, as nearly 3 million people suffer from MS worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison MacDougall
- Department of Biological Sciences, Salisbury University, Salisbury, MD, United States
- Department of Psychology, Salisbury University, Salisbury, MD, United States
| | - Jad El-Hajj Sleiman
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, CHU de Québec – Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Philippe Beauchemin
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, CHU de Québec – Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Manu Rangachari
- Axe Neurosciences, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec – Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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Zeng F, Li Y, Deng Z, He J, Li W, Wang L, Lyu T, Li Z, Mei C, Yang M, Dong Y, Jiang G, Li X, Huang X, Xiao F, Liu Y, Shan H, He H. SARS-CoV-2 spike spurs intestinal inflammation via VEGF production in enterocytes. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e14844. [PMID: 35362189 PMCID: PMC9081906 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202114844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) can cause gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms that often correlate with the severity of COVID-19. Here, we explored the pathogenesis underlying the intestinal inflammation in COVID-19. Plasma VEGF level was particularly elevated in patients with GI symptoms and significantly correlated with intestinal edema and disease progression. Through an animal model mimicking intestinal inflammation upon stimulation with SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, we further revealed that VEGF was over-produced in the duodenum prior to its ascent in the circulation. Mechanistically, SARS-CoV-2 spike promoted VEGF production through activating the Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK signaling in enterocytes, but not in endothelium, and inducing permeability and inflammation. Blockage of the ERK/VEGF axis was able to rescue vascular permeability and alleviate intestinal inflammation in vivo. These findings provide a mechanistic explanation and therapeutic targets for the GI symptoms of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fa‐Min Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular ImagingThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina,Department of PathologyThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Ying‐wen Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular ImagingThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Zhao‐hua Deng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular ImagingThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Jian‐zhong He
- Department of PathologyThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Wei Li
- Department of PathologyThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Lijie Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular ImagingThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Ting Lyu
- Department of PathologyThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Zhanyu Li
- Department of PathologyThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Chaoming Mei
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular ImagingThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Meiling Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular ImagingThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Yingying Dong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular ImagingThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Guan‐Min Jiang
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Xiaofeng Li
- Department of GastroenterologyThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Xi Huang
- Department of Infectious DiseasesThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Fei Xiao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular ImagingThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina,Department of Infectious DiseasesThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Ye Liu
- Department of PathologyThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Hong Shan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular ImagingThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina,Department of Interventional MedicineThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
| | - Huanhuan He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular ImagingThe Fifth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityZhuhaiChina
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65
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COVID-19 Vasculitis and vasculopathy-Distinct immunopathology emerging from the close juxtaposition of Type II Pneumocytes and Pulmonary Endothelial Cells. Semin Immunopathol 2022; 44:375-390. [PMID: 35412072 PMCID: PMC9003176 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-022-00928-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 virus ACE-2 receptor utilization for cellular entry and the defined ACE-2 receptor role in cardiovascular medicine hinted at dysregulated endothelial function or even direct viral endotheliitis as the key driver of severe COVID-19 vascular immunopathology including reports of vasculitis. In this article, we critically review COVID-19 immunopathology from the vasculitis perspective and highlight the non-infectious nature of vascular endothelial involvement in severe COVID-19. Whilst COVID-19 lung disease pathological changes included juxta-capillary and vascular macrophage and lymphocytic infiltration typical of vasculitis, we review the evidence reflecting that such “vasculitis” reflects an extension of pneumonic inflammatory pathology to encompass these thin-walled vessels. Definitive, extrapulmonary clinically discernible vasculitis including cutaneous and cardiac vasculitis also emerged- namely a dysregulated interferon expression or “COVID toes” and an ill-defined systemic Kawasaki-like disease. These two latter genuine vasculitis pathologies were not associated with severe COVID-19 pneumonia. This was distinct from cutaneous vasculitis in severe COVID-19 that demonstrated pauci-immune infiltrates and prominent immunothrombosis that appears to represent a novel immunothrombotic vasculitis mimic contributed to by RNAaemia or potentially diffuse pulmonary venous tree thrombosis with systemic embolization with small arteriolar territory occlusion, although the latter remains unproven. Herein, we also performed a systematic literature review of COVID-19 vasculitis and reports of post-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination related vasculitis with respect to the commonly classified pre-COVID vasculitis groupings. Across the vasculitis spectrum, we noted that Goodpasture’s syndrome was rarely linked to natural SARS-CoV-2 infection but not vaccines. Both the genuine vasculitis in the COVID-19 era and the proposed vasculitis mimic should advance the understanding of both pulmonary and systemic vascular immunopathology.
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66
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Perico L, Morigi M, Galbusera M, Pezzotta A, Gastoldi S, Imberti B, Perna A, Ruggenenti P, Donadelli R, Benigni A, Remuzzi G. SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein 1 Activates Microvascular Endothelial Cells and Complement System Leading to Platelet Aggregation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:827146. [PMID: 35320941 PMCID: PMC8936079 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.827146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Microvascular thrombosis is associated with multiorgan failure and mortality in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Although thrombotic complications may be ascribed to the ability of SARS-CoV-2 to infect and replicate in endothelial cells, it has been poorly investigated whether, in the complexity of viral infection in the human host, specific viral elements alone can induce endothelial damage. Detection of circulating spike protein in the sera of severe COVID-19 patients was evaluated by ELISA. In vitro experiments were performed on human microvascular endothelial cells from the derma and lung exposed to SARS-CoV-2-derived spike protein 1 (S1). The expression of adhesive molecules was studied by immunofluorescence and leukocyte adhesion and platelet aggregation were assessed under flow conditions. Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and AMPK expression were investigated by Western Blot analysis. In addition, S1-treated endothelial cells were incubated with anti-ACE2 blocking antibody, AMPK agonist, or complement inhibitors. Our results show that significant levels of spike protein were found in the 30.4% of severe COVID-19 patients. In vitro, the activation of endothelial cells with S1 protein, via ACE2, impaired AMPK signalling, leading to robust leukocyte recruitment due to increased adhesive molecule expression and thrombomodulin loss. This S1-induced pro-inflammatory phenotype led to exuberant C3 and C5b-9 deposition on endothelial cells, along with C3a and C5a generation that further amplified S1-induced complement activation. Functional blockade of ACE2 or complement inhibition halted S1-induced platelet aggregates by limiting von Willebrand factor and P-selectin exocytosis and expression on endothelial cells. Overall, we demonstrate that SARS-CoV-2-derived S1 is sufficient in itself to propagate inflammatory and thrombogenic processes in the microvasculature, amplified by the complement system, recapitulating the thromboembolic complications of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Perico
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Marina Morigi
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Miriam Galbusera
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Anna Pezzotta
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Sara Gastoldi
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Barbara Imberti
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Annalisa Perna
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Piero Ruggenenti
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
- Unit of Nephrology and Dialysis, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Roberta Donadelli
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Ariela Benigni
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
- *Correspondence: Ariela Benigni,
| | - Giuseppe Remuzzi
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Bergamo, Italy
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67
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Martínez-Salazar B, Holwerda M, Stüdle C, Piragyte I, Mercader N, Engelhardt B, Rieben R, Döring Y. COVID-19 and the Vasculature: Current Aspects and Long-Term Consequences. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:824851. [PMID: 35242762 PMCID: PMC8887620 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.824851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was first identified in December 2019 as a novel respiratory pathogen and is the causative agent of Corona Virus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Early on during this pandemic, it became apparent that SARS-CoV-2 was not only restricted to infecting the respiratory tract, but the virus was also found in other tissues, including the vasculature. Individuals with underlying pre-existing co-morbidities like diabetes and hypertension have been more prone to develop severe illness and fatal outcomes during COVID-19. In addition, critical clinical observations made in COVID-19 patients include hypercoagulation, cardiomyopathy, heart arrythmia, and endothelial dysfunction, which are indicative for an involvement of the vasculature in COVID-19 pathology. Hence, this review summarizes the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the vasculature and details how the virus promotes (chronic) vascular inflammation. We provide a general overview of SARS-CoV-2, its entry determinant Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme II (ACE2) and the detection of the SARS-CoV-2 in extrapulmonary tissue. Further, we describe the relation between COVID-19 and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and their impact on the heart and vasculature. Clinical findings on endothelial changes during COVID-19 are reviewed in detail and recent evidence from in vitro studies on the susceptibility of endothelial cells to SARS-CoV-2 infection is discussed. We conclude with current notions on the contribution of cardiovascular events to long term consequences of COVID-19, also known as “Long-COVID-syndrome”. Altogether, our review provides a detailed overview of the current perspectives of COVID-19 and its influence on the vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berenice Martínez-Salazar
- Division of Angiology, Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Melle Holwerda
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Stüdle
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Indre Piragyte
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Institute of Anatomy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nadia Mercader
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Institute of Anatomy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, Spain.,Bern Center of Precision Medicine BCPM, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Robert Rieben
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Yvonne Döring
- Division of Angiology, Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
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68
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Scheim DE. A Deadly Embrace: Hemagglutination Mediated by SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein at Its 22 N-Glycosylation Sites, Red Blood Cell Surface Sialoglycoproteins, and Antibody. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2558. [PMID: 35269703 PMCID: PMC8910562 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rouleaux (stacked clumps) of red blood cells (RBCs) observed in the blood of COVID-19 patients in three studies call attention to the properties of several enveloped virus strains dating back to seminal findings of the 1940s. For COVID-19, key such properties are: (1) SARS-CoV-2 binds to RBCs in vitro and also in the blood of COVID-19 patients; (2) although ACE2 is its target for viral fusion and replication, SARS-CoV-2 initially attaches to sialic acid (SA) terminal moieties on host cell membranes via glycans on its spike protein; (3) certain enveloped viruses express hemagglutinin esterase (HE), an enzyme that releases these glycan-mediated bindings to host cells, which is expressed among betacoronaviruses in the common cold strains but not the virulent strains, SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 and MERS. The arrangement and chemical composition of the glycans at the 22 N-glycosylation sites of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and those at the sialoglycoprotein coating of RBCs allow exploration of specifics as to how virally induced RBC clumping may form. The in vitro and clinical testing of these possibilities can be sharpened by the incorporation of an existing anti-COVID-19 therapeutic that has been found in silico to competitively bind to multiple glycans on SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E Scheim
- US Public Health Service, Commissioned Officer, Inactive Reserve, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA
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69
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Frank MG, Nguyen KH, Ball JB, Hopkins S, Kelley T, Baratta MV, Fleshner M, Maier SF. SARS-CoV-2 spike S1 subunit induces neuroinflammatory, microglial and behavioral sickness responses: Evidence of PAMP-like properties. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 100:267-277. [PMID: 34915155 PMCID: PMC8667429 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infection produces neuroinflammation as well as neurological, cognitive (i.e., brain fog), and neuropsychiatric symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety), which can persist for an extended period (6 months) after resolution of the infection. The neuroimmune mechanism(s) that produces SARS-CoV-2-induced neuroinflammation has not been characterized. Proposed mechanisms include peripheral cytokine signaling to the brain and/or direct viral infection of the CNS. Here, we explore the novel hypothesis that a structural protein (S1) derived from SARS-CoV-2 functions as a pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) to induce neuroinflammatory processes independent of viral infection. Prior evidence suggests that the S1 subunit of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is inflammatory in vitro and signals through the pattern recognition receptor TLR4. Therefore, we examined whether the S1 subunit is sufficient to drive 1) a behavioral sickness response, 2) a neuroinflammatory response, 3) direct activation of microglia in vitro, and 4) activation of transgenic human TLR2 and TLR4 HEK293 cells. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected intra-cisterna magna (ICM) with vehicle or S1. In-cage behavioral monitoring (8 h post-ICM) demonstrated that S1 reduced several behaviors, including total activity, self-grooming, and wall-rearing. S1 also increased social avoidance in the juvenile social exploration test (24 h post-ICM). S1 increased and/or modulated neuroimmune gene expression (Iba1, Cd11b, MhcIIα, Cd200r1, Gfap, Tlr2, Tlr4, Nlrp3, Il1b, Hmgb1) and protein levels (IFNγ, IL-1β, TNF, CXCL1, IL-2, IL-10), which varied across brain regions (hypothalamus, hippocampus, and frontal cortex) and time (24 h and 7d) post-S1 treatment. Direct exposure of microglia to S1 resulted in increased gene expression (Il1b, Il6, Tnf, Nlrp3) and protein levels (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF, CXCL1, IL-10). S1 also activated TLR2 and TLR4 receptor signaling in HEK293 transgenic cells. Taken together, these findings suggest that structural proteins derived from SARS-CoV-2 might function independently as PAMPs to induce neuroinflammatory processes via pattern recognition receptor engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew G Frank
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80301, United States.
| | - Kathy H Nguyen
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80301, United States
| | - Jayson B Ball
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80301, United States
| | - Shelby Hopkins
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80301, United States
| | - Tel Kelley
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80301, United States
| | - Michael V Baratta
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80301, United States
| | - Monika Fleshner
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80301, United States
| | - Steven F Maier
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80301, United States
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70
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Kowarz E, Krutzke L, Külp M, Streb P, Larghero P, Reis J, Bracharz S, Engler T, Kochanek S, Marschalek R. Vaccine-induced COVID-19 mimicry syndrome. eLife 2022; 11:74974. [PMID: 35084333 PMCID: PMC8846585 DOI: 10.7554/elife.74974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
To fight the COVID-19 pandemic caused by the RNA virus SARS-CoV-2, a global vaccination campaign is in progress to achieve the immunization of billions of people mainly with adenoviral vector- or mRNA-based vaccines, all of which encode the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein. In some rare cases, cerebral venous sinus thromboses (CVST) have been reported as a severe side effect occurring 4–14 days after the first vaccination and were often accompanied by thrombocytopenia. Besides CVST, splanchnic vein thromboses (SVT) and other thromboembolic events have been observed. These events only occurred following vaccination with adenoviral vector-based vaccines but not following vaccination with mRNA-based vaccines. Meanwhile, scientists have proposed an immune-based pathomechanism and the condition has been coined vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT). Here, we describe an unexpected mechanism that could explain thromboembolic events occurring with DNA-based but not with RNA-based vaccines. We show that DNA-encoded mRNA coding for Spike protein can be spliced in a way that the transmembrane anchor of Spike is lost, so that nearly full-length Spike is secreted from cells. Secreted Spike variants could potentially initiate severe side effects when binding to cells via the ACE2 receptor. Avoiding such splicing events should become part of a rational vaccine design to increase safety of prospective vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Kowarz
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Lea Krutzke
- Department of Gene Therapy, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Marius Külp
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Patrick Streb
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Patrizia Larghero
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Jennifer Reis
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Silvia Bracharz
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Tatjana Engler
- Department of Gene Therapy, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Rolf Marschalek
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
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71
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Alkattan W, Yaqinuddin A, Shafqat A, Kashir J. NET-Mediated Pathogenesis of COVID-19: The Role of NETs in Hepatic Manifestations. JOURNAL OF HEALTH AND ALLIED SCIENCES NU 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1741418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AbstractSome coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients exhibit multi-organ failure, which often includes the liver. Indeed, liver disease appears to be an emerging feature of COVID-19 infections. However, the exact mechanism behind this remains unknown. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have increasingly been attributed as major contributors to various liver pathologies, including sepsis, ischemic-reperfusion (I/R) injury, and portal hypertension in the setting of chronic liver disease. Although vital in normal immunity, excessive NET formation can drive inflammation, particularly of the endothelium. Collectively, we propose that NETs observed to be elevated in severe COVID-19 infection play principal roles in liver injury in addition to acute lung injury. Herein, we discuss the potential mechanisms underlying COVID-induced liver injury including cytopathic effects from direct liver infection, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, and hypoxic injury, encompassing I/R injury and coagulopathy. Further research is required to further elucidate the role of NETs in COVID. This holds potential therapeutic significance, as inhibition of NETosis could alleviate the symptoms of acute respiratory distress syndrome and liver injury, as well as other organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wael Alkattan
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Yaqinuddin
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Areez Shafqat
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Junaid Kashir
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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72
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Kang HS, Kim JE, Yoo JR, Oh H, Kim M, Kim YR, Heo ST. Aseptic Meningitis Following Second Dose of an mRNA Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccine in a Healthy Male: Case Report and Literature Review. Infect Chemother 2022; 54:189-194. [PMID: 35132836 PMCID: PMC8987175 DOI: 10.3947/ic.2021.0131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccines are one of the most important strategies against pandemics or epidemics involving infectious diseases. With the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), there have been global efforts for rapid development of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine and vaccination is being performed globally on a massive scale. With rapid increase in vaccination, rare adverse events have been reported. Well-known neurological adverse events associated with COVID-19 vaccination include Guillain–Barré syndrome, myelitis, and encephalitis. However, COVID-19 vaccine-related aseptic meningitis has rarely been reported. A 32-year-old healthy man visited our hospital with a complaint of headache for 1 week. He had received the second dose of the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine 2 weeks before the onset of headache. Since the initial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) profile suggested viral meningitis, we started treatment with an antiviral agent. However, the symptoms and follow-up CSF profile on day 7 of hospitalization showed no improvement and SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies were detected in the CSF. We suspected aseptic meningitis associated with the vaccination and intravenous methylprednisolone (500 mg/day) was administered for 3 days. The symptoms improved and the patient was discharged on day 12 of hospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Sol Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Korea
| | - Ju Eun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Korea
| | - Jeong Rae Yoo
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Korea
| | - Hyunjoo Oh
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Korea
| | - Misun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Korea
| | - Young Ree Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Korea
| | - Sang Taek Heo
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, Korea
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73
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Radhakrishnan RK, Kandasamy M. SARS-CoV-2-Mediated Neuropathogenesis, Deterioration of Hippocampal Neurogenesis and Dementia. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen 2022; 37:15333175221078418. [PMID: 35133907 PMCID: PMC10581113 DOI: 10.1177/15333175221078418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A significant portion of COVID-19 patients and survivors display marked clinical signs of neurocognitive impairments. SARS-CoV-2-mediated peripheral cytokine storm and its neurotropism appear to elicit the activation of glial cells in the brain proceeding to neuroinflammation. While adult neurogenesis has been identified as a key cellular basis of cognitive functions, neuroinflammation-induced aberrant neuroregenerative plasticity in the hippocampus has been implicated in progressive memory loss in ageing and brain disorders. Notably, recent histological studies of post-mortem human and experimental animal brains indicate that SARS-CoV-2 infection impairs neurogenic process in the hippocampus of the brain due to neuroinflammation. Considering the facts, this article describes the prominent neuropathogenic characteristics and neurocognitive impairments in COVID-19 and emphasizes a viewpoint that neuroinflammation-mediated deterioration of hippocampal neurogenesis could contribute to the onset and progression of dementia in COVID-19. Thus, it necessitates the unmet need for regenerative medicine for the effective management of neurocognitive deficits in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risna K. Radhakrishnan
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, India
| | - Mahesh Kandasamy
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, India
- Faculty Recharge Programme, University Grants Commission (UGC-FRP), New Delhi, India
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Nuovo GJ, Suster D, Awad H, Michaille JJ, Tili E. The histologic and molecular correlates of liver disease in fatal COVID-19 including with alcohol use disorder. Ann Diagn Pathol 2021; 57:151881. [PMID: 34968863 PMCID: PMC8694815 DOI: 10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2021.151881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic disease is common in severe COVID-19. This study compared the histologic/molecular findings in the liver in fatal COVID-19 (n = 9) and age-matched normal controls (n = 9); three of the fatal COVID-19 livers had pre-existing alcohol use disorder (AUD). Controls showed a high resident population of sinusoidal macrophages that had variable ACE2 expression. Histologic findings in the cases included periportal/lobular inflammation. SARS-CoV2 RNA and nucleocapsid protein were detected in situ in 2/9 COVID-19 livers in low amounts. In 9/9 cases, there was ample in situ SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that co-localized with viral matrix and envelope proteins. The number of cells positive for spike/100× field was significantly greater in the AUD/COVID-19 cases (mean 5.9) versus the non-AUD/COVID-19 cases (mean 0.4, p < 0.001) which was corroborated by Western blots. ACE2+ cells were 10× greater in AUD/COVID-19 livers versus the other COVID-19/control liver samples (p < 0.001). Co-expression experiments showed that the spike protein localized to the ACE2 positive macrophages and, in the AUD cases, hepatic stellate cells that were activated as evidenced by IL6 and TNFα expression. Injection of the S1, but not S2, subunit of spike in mice induced hepatic lobular inflammation in activated macrophages. It is concluded that endocytosed viral spike protein can induce hepatitis in fatal COVID-19. This spike induced hepatitis is more robust in the livers with pre-existing AUD which may relate to why patients with alcohol abuse are at higher risk of severe liver disease with SARS-CoV2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard J Nuovo
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA; GnomeDX, Powell, OH, USA.
| | - David Suster
- Rutgers University Hospital Department of Pathology, Newark, NY, USA
| | - Hamdy Awad
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jean-Jacques Michaille
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA; BioPerox-IL, Faculté des Sciences Gabriel, Université de Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Esmerina Tili
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
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75
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Avolio E, Carrabba M, Milligan R, Kavanagh Williamson M, Beltrami AP, Gupta K, Elvers KT, Gamez M, Foster RR, Gillespie K, Hamilton F, Arnold D, Berger I, Davidson AD, Hill D, Caputo M, Madeddu P. The SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein disrupts human cardiac pericytes function through CD147 receptor-mediated signalling: a potential non-infective mechanism of COVID-19 microvascular disease. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 135:2667-2689. [PMID: 34807265 DOI: 10.1101/2020.12.21.423721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes a broad range of clinical responses including prominent microvascular damage. The capacity of SARS-CoV-2 to infect vascular cells is still debated. Additionally, the SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) protein may act as a ligand to induce non-infective cellular stress. We tested this hypothesis in pericytes (PCs), which are reportedly reduced in the heart of patients with severe coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). Here we newly show that the in vitro exposure of primary human cardiac PCs to the SARS-CoV-2 wildtype strain or the α and δ variants caused rare infection events. Exposure to the recombinant S protein alone elicited signalling and functional alterations, including: (1) increased migration, (2) reduced ability to support endothelial cell (EC) network formation on Matrigel, (3) secretion of pro-inflammatory molecules typically involved in the cytokine storm, and (4) production of pro-apoptotic factors causing EC death. Next, adopting a blocking strategy against the S protein receptors angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and CD147, we discovered that the S protein stimulates the phosphorylation/activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) through the CD147 receptor, but not ACE2, in PCs. The neutralisation of CD147, either using a blocking antibody or mRNA silencing, reduced ERK1/2 activation, and rescued PC function in the presence of the S protein. Immunoreactive S protein was detected in the peripheral blood of infected patients. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the S protein may prompt PC dysfunction, potentially contributing to microvascular injury. This mechanism may have clinical and therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Avolio
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Michele Carrabba
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Rachel Milligan
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | | | | | - Kapil Gupta
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Karen T Elvers
- Medicines Discovery Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, U.K
| | - Monica Gamez
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Rebecca R Foster
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Kathleen Gillespie
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Fergus Hamilton
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - David Arnold
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Imre Berger
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
- Max Planck Bristol Centre for Minimal Biology, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Andrew D Davidson
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Darryl Hill
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Massimo Caputo
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Paolo Madeddu
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
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76
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Avolio E, Carrabba M, Milligan R, Kavanagh Williamson M, Beltrami AP, Gupta K, Elvers KT, Gamez M, Foster RR, Gillespie K, Hamilton F, Arnold D, Berger I, Davidson AD, Hill D, Caputo M, Madeddu P. The SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein disrupts human cardiac pericytes function through CD147 receptor-mediated signalling: a potential non-infective mechanism of COVID-19 microvascular disease. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 135:2667-2689. [PMID: 34807265 PMCID: PMC8674568 DOI: 10.1042/cs20210735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes a broad range of clinical responses including prominent microvascular damage. The capacity of SARS-CoV-2 to infect vascular cells is still debated. Additionally, the SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) protein may act as a ligand to induce non-infective cellular stress. We tested this hypothesis in pericytes (PCs), which are reportedly reduced in the heart of patients with severe coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). Here we newly show that the in vitro exposure of primary human cardiac PCs to the SARS-CoV-2 wildtype strain or the α and δ variants caused rare infection events. Exposure to the recombinant S protein alone elicited signalling and functional alterations, including: (1) increased migration, (2) reduced ability to support endothelial cell (EC) network formation on Matrigel, (3) secretion of pro-inflammatory molecules typically involved in the cytokine storm, and (4) production of pro-apoptotic factors causing EC death. Next, adopting a blocking strategy against the S protein receptors angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and CD147, we discovered that the S protein stimulates the phosphorylation/activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) through the CD147 receptor, but not ACE2, in PCs. The neutralisation of CD147, either using a blocking antibody or mRNA silencing, reduced ERK1/2 activation, and rescued PC function in the presence of the S protein. Immunoreactive S protein was detected in the peripheral blood of infected patients. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the S protein may prompt PC dysfunction, potentially contributing to microvascular injury. This mechanism may have clinical and therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Avolio
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Michele Carrabba
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Rachel Milligan
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | | | | | - Kapil Gupta
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Karen T Elvers
- Medicines Discovery Institute, Cardiff University, Cardiff, U.K
| | - Monica Gamez
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Rebecca R Foster
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Kathleen Gillespie
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Fergus Hamilton
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - David Arnold
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Imre Berger
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
- Max Planck Bristol Centre for Minimal Biology, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Andrew D Davidson
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Darryl Hill
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Massimo Caputo
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Paolo Madeddu
- Bristol Medical School, Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
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77
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Zavari A, Hamidabad NM, Hassanzadeh M. A case of aseptic meningitis following AZD1222 COVID-19 vaccination. Am J Emerg Med 2021; 55:225.e5-225.e6. [PMID: 34955313 PMCID: PMC8684093 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2021.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The AZD1222 is one of the vaccines used against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is currently being used in many countries worldwide. Some important neurological side effects have been reported in association with this vaccine, but aseptic meningitis has not yet been reported. Herein, we report a case of aseptic meningitis in a 26-year-old health care worker, following the first dose of the AZD1222 vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arefeh Zavari
- School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Rasoul-E-Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Negin Mahmoudi Hamidabad
- School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Rasoul-E-Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Firoozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Morteza Hassanzadeh
- School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Rasoul-E-Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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78
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Dupon V, Arnaert S, Van Haute E, Vulsteke F, Diet G, De Schoenmakere G. Aseptic meningitis after SARS-CoV-2 Pfizer/BioNTech vaccination. Acta Clin Belg 2021; 77:976-979. [PMID: 34882515 DOI: 10.1080/17843286.2021.2015101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Aseptic meningitis is a rare, but possible severe side effect after SARS-CoV-2 Pfizer/BioNTech vaccination. CASE PRESENTATION Recently, a first case of aseptic meningitis after the first shot of mRNA-BNT162b2 SARS-CoV-2 (Pfizer/BioNTech) vaccine was reported. We present the first case of a 34-year-old woman without relevant medical history developing aseptic meningitis after her 2nd Pfizer/BioNTech vaccination. She was admitted with severe headache and fever for 5 days prior to her presentation at the emergency department. An extensive work-up of the clinical problem could narrow the differential diagnosis. Symptoms resolved after methylprednisolone therapy. CONCLUSION This case highlights a rare but important side effect after vaccination that primary physicians and neurologists should be aware of in order to identify and efficiently manage these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Dupon
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, AZ Delta, Roeselare, Belgium
| | - Stijn Arnaert
- Department of Nephrology, AZ Delta, Roeselare, Belgium
| | | | | | - Günter Diet
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, AZ Delta, Roeselare, Belgium
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79
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Wan D, Du T, Hong W, Chen L, Que H, Lu S, Peng X. Neurological complications and infection mechanism of SARS-COV-2. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:406. [PMID: 34815399 PMCID: PMC8609271 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00818-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, SARS-CoV-2 has caused a global pandemic and threatened many lives. Although SARS-CoV-2 mainly causes respiratory diseases, growing data indicate that SARS-CoV-2 can also invade the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) causing multiple neurological diseases, such as encephalitis, encephalopathy, Guillain-Barré syndrome, meningitis, and skeletal muscular symptoms. Despite the increasing incidences of clinical neurological complications of SARS-CoV-2, the precise neuroinvasion mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 have not been fully established. In this review, we primarily describe the clinical neurological complications associated with SARS-CoV-2 and discuss the potential mechanisms through which SARS-CoV-2 invades the brain based on the current evidence. Finally, we summarize the experimental models were used to study SARS-CoV-2 neuroinvasion. These data form the basis for studies on the significance of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Wan
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatricts, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Tingfu Du
- National Kunming High-level Biosafety Primate Research Center, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Yunnan, China
| | - Weiqi Hong
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatricts, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Li Chen
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatricts, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Haiying Que
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatricts, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, 610041, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Shuaiyao Lu
- National Kunming High-level Biosafety Primate Research Center, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Yunnan, China.
| | - Xiaozhong Peng
- National Kunming High-level Biosafety Primate Research Center, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Yunnan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Molecular, Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Medical Primate Research Center, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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80
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Comparison of SARS-CoV-2 Receptors Expression in Primary Endothelial Cells and Retinoic Acid-Differentiated Human Neuronal Cells. Viruses 2021; 13:v13112193. [PMID: 34834998 PMCID: PMC8620655 DOI: 10.3390/v13112193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) is primarily responsible for coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and it is characterized by respiratory illness with fever and dyspnea. Severe vascular problems and several other manifestations, including neurological ones, have also been frequently reported, particularly in the great majority of “long hauler” patients. SARS-CoV-2 infects and replicates in lung epithelial cells, while dysfunction of endothelial and neuronal brain cells has been observed in the absence of productive infection. It has been shown that the Spike protein can interact with specific cellular receptors, supporting both viral entry and cellular dysfunction. It is thus clear that understanding how and when these receptors are regulated, as well as how much they are expressed would help in unveiling the multifaceted aspects of this disease. Here, we show that SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells express three important cellular surface molecules that interact with the Spike protein, namely ACE2, TMPRSS2, and NRP1. Their levels increase when cells are treated with retinoic acid (RA), a commonly used agent known to promote differentiation. This increase matched the higher levels of receptors observed on HUVEC (primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells). We also show by confocal imaging that replication-defective pseudoviruses carrying the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein can infect differentiated and undifferentiated SH-SY5Y, and HUVEC cells, although with different efficiencies. Neuronal cells and endothelial cells are potential targets for SARS-CoV-2 infection and the interaction of the Spike viral protein with these cells may cause their dysregulation. Characterizing RNA and protein expression tempo, mode, and levels of different SARS-CoV-2 receptors on both cell subpopulations may have clinical relevance for the diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19-infected subjects, including long hauler patients with neurological manifestations.
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81
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Kircheis R. Coagulopathies after Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 May Be Derived from a Combined Effect of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and Adenovirus Vector-Triggered Signaling Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10791. [PMID: 34639132 PMCID: PMC8509779 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has resulted in a global pandemic with worldwide 6-digit infection rates and thousands of death tolls daily. Enormous efforts are undertaken to achieve high coverage of immunization to reach herd immunity in order to stop the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Several SARS-CoV-2 vaccines based on mRNA, viral vectors, or inactivated SARS-CoV-2 virus have been approved and are being applied worldwide. However, the recent increased numbers of normally very rare types of thromboses associated with thrombocytopenia have been reported, particularly in the context of the adenoviral vector vaccine ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 from Astra Zeneca. The statistical prevalence of these side effects seems to correlate with this particular vaccine type, i.e., adenoviral vector-based vaccines, but the exact molecular mechanisms are still not clear. The present review summarizes current data and hypotheses for molecular and cellular mechanisms into one integrated hypothesis indicating that coagulopathies, including thromboses, thrombocytopenia, and other related side effects, are correlated to an interplay of the two components in the vaccine, i.e., the spike antigen and the adenoviral vector, with the innate and immune systems, which under certain circumstances can imitate the picture of a limited COVID-19 pathological picture.
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82
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Kluck GEG, Yoo JA, Sakarya EH, Trigatti BL. Good Cholesterol Gone Bad? HDL and COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10182. [PMID: 34638523 PMCID: PMC8507803 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The transmissible respiratory disease COVID-19, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has affected millions of people worldwide since its first reported outbreak in December of 2019 in Wuhan, China. Since then, multiple studies have shown an inverse correlation between the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles and the severity of COVID-19, with low HDL levels being associated with an increased risk of severe outcomes. Some studies revealed that HDL binds to SARS-CoV-2 particles via the virus's spike protein and, under certain conditions, such as low HDL particle concentrations, it facilitates SARS-CoV-2 binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and infection of host cells. Other studies, however, reported that HDL suppressed SARS-CoV-2 infection. In both cases, the ability of HDL to enhance or suppress virus infection appears to be dependent on the expression of the HDL receptor, namely, the Scavenger Receptor Class B type 1 (SR-B1), in the target cells. SR-B1 and HDL represent crucial mediators of cholesterol metabolism. Herein, we review the complex role of HDL and SR-B1 in SARS-CoV-2-induced disease. We also review recent advances in our understanding of HDL structure, properties, and function during SARS-CoV-2 infection and the resulting COVID-19 disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Bernardo L. Trigatti
- Thrombosis and Atherosclerosis Research Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University and Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada; (G.E.G.K.); (J.-A.Y.); (E.H.S.)
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83
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Kostoff RN, Calina D, Kanduc D, Briggs MB, Vlachoyiannopoulos P, Svistunov AA, Tsatsakis A. Why are we vaccinating children against COVID-19? Toxicol Rep 2021; 8:1665-1684. [PMID: 34540594 PMCID: PMC8437699 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2021.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This article examines issues related to COVID-19 inoculations for children. The bulk of the official COVID-19-attributed deaths per capita occur in the elderly with high comorbidities, and the COVID-19 attributed deaths per capita are negligible in children. The bulk of the normalized post-inoculation deaths also occur in the elderly with high comorbidities, while the normalized post-inoculation deaths are small, but not negligible, in children. Clinical trials for these inoculations were very short-term (a few months), had samples not representative of the total population, and for adolescents/children, had poor predictive power because of their small size. Further, the clinical trials did not address changes in biomarkers that could serve as early warning indicators of elevated predisposition to serious diseases. Most importantly, the clinical trials did not address long-term effects that, if serious, would be borne by children/adolescents for potentially decades. A novel best-case scenario cost-benefit analysis showed very conservatively that there are five times the number of deaths attributable to each inoculation vs those attributable to COVID-19 in the most vulnerable 65+ demographic. The risk of death from COVID-19 decreases drastically as age decreases, and the longer-term effects of the inoculations on lower age groups will increase their risk-benefit ratio, perhaps substantially.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349, Craiova, Romania
| | - Darja Kanduc
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, Italy
| | | | | | - Andrey A. Svistunov
- Department of Pharmacology, I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119146, Moscow, Russia
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Department of Forensic Sciences and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
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84
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Therapeutic application of estrogen for COVID-19: Attenuation of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and IL-6 stimulated, ACE2-dependent NOX2 activation, ROS production and MCP-1 upregulation in endothelial cells. Redox Biol 2021; 46:102099. [PMID: 34509916 PMCID: PMC8372492 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2021.102099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The outbreak of COVID-19 has remained uncontained with urgent need for robust therapeutics. We have previously reported sex difference of COVID-19 for the first time indicating male predisposition. Males are more susceptible than females, and more often to develop into severe cases with higher mortality. This predisposition is potentially linked to higher prevalence of cigarette smoking. Nonetheless, we found for the first time that cigarette smoking extract (CSE) had no effect on angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) expression in endothelial cells. The otherwise observed worse outcomes in smokers is likely linked to baseline respiratory diseases associated with chronic smoking. Instead, we hypothesized that estrogen mediated protection might underlie lower morbidity, severity and mortality of COVID-19 in females. Of note, endothelial inflammation and barrier dysfunction are major mediators of disease progression, and development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and multi-organ failure in patients with COVID-19. Therefore, we investigated potential protective effects of estrogen on endothelial cells against oxidative stress induced by interleukin-6 (IL-6) and SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S protein). Indeed, 17β-estradiol completely reversed S protein-induced selective activation of NADPH oxidase isoform 2 (NOX2) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production that are ACE2-dependent, as well as ACE2 upregulation and induction of pro-inflammatory gene monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in endothelial cells to effectively attenuate endothelial dysfunction. Effects of IL-6 on activating NOX2-dependent ROS production and upregulation of MCP-1 were also completely attenuated by 17β-estradiol. Of note, co-treatment with CSE had no additional effects on S protein stimulated endothelial oxidative stress, confirming that current smoking status is likely unrelated to more severe disease in chronic smokers. These data indicate that estrogen can serve as a novel therapy for patients with COVID-19 via inhibition of initial viral responses and attenuation of cytokine storm induced endothelial dysfunction, to substantially alleviate morbidity, severity and mortality of the disease, especially in men and post-menopause women. Short-term administration of estrogen can therefore be readily applied to the clinical management of COVID-19 as a robust therapeutic option.
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85
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Kashir J, Ambia AR, Shafqat A, Sajid MR, AlKattan K, Yaqinuddin A. Scientific premise for the involvement of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in vaccine-induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT). J Leukoc Biol 2021; 111:725-734. [PMID: 34467562 PMCID: PMC8667645 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.5covr0621-320rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Following on from the devastating spread of COVID‐19, a major global priority has been the production, procurement, and distribution of effective vaccines to ensure that the global pandemic reaches an end. However, concerns were raised about worrying side effects, particularly the occurrence of thrombosis and thrombocytopenia after administration of the Oxford/AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson's Janssen COVID‐19 vaccine, in a phenomenon being termed vaccine‐induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT). Similar to heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), this condition has been associated with the development of anti‐platelet factor 4 antibodies, purportedly leading to neutrophil‐platelet aggregate formation. Although thrombosis has also been a common association with COVID‐19, the precise molecular mechanisms governing its occurrence are yet to be established. Recently, increasing evidence highlights the NLRP3 (NOD‐like, leucine‐rich repeat domains, and pyrin domain‐containing protein) inflammasome complex along with IL‐1β and effete neutrophils producing neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) through NETosis. Herein, we propose and discuss that perhaps the incidence of VITT may be due to inflammatory reactions mediated via IL‐1β/NLRP3 inflammasome activation and consequent overproduction of NETs, where similar autoimmune mechanisms are observed in HIT. We also discuss avenues by which such modalities could be treated to prevent the occurrence of adverse events and ensure vaccine rollouts remain safe and on target to end the current pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junaid Kashir
- Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Areez Shafqat
- Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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86
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Saito K, Shimizu T, Suzuki-Inoue K, Ishida T, Wada Y. Aseptic meningitis after vaccination of the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. Neurol Sci 2021; 42:4433-4435. [PMID: 34378098 PMCID: PMC8354782 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05543-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuyuki Saito
- Department of Neurology, Nissan Tamagawa Hospital, Seta 4-8-1, Setagaya, Tokyo, 158-0095, Japan.
| | - Taro Shimizu
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Biopharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Katsue Suzuki-Inoue
- Department of Clinical and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Yamanashi University, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Tatsuhiro Ishida
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Biopharmaceutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Wada
- Department of Neurology, Nissan Tamagawa Hospital, Seta 4-8-1, Setagaya, Tokyo, 158-0095, Japan
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87
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Butowt R, Meunier N, Bryche B, von Bartheld CS. The olfactory nerve is not a likely route to brain infection in COVID-19: a critical review of data from humans and animal models. Acta Neuropathol 2021; 141:809-822. [PMID: 33903954 PMCID: PMC8075028 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-021-02314-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
One of the most frequent symptoms of COVID-19 is the loss of smell and taste. Based on the lack of expression of the virus entry proteins in olfactory receptor neurons, it was originally assumed that the new coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, SARS-CoV-2) does not infect olfactory neurons. Recent studies have reported otherwise, opening the possibility that the virus can directly infect the brain by traveling along the olfactory nerve. Multiple animal models have been employed to assess mechanisms and routes of brain infection of SARS-CoV-2, often with conflicting results. We here review the current evidence for an olfactory route to brain infection and conclude that the case for infection of olfactory neurons is weak, based on animal and human studies. Consistent brain infection after SARS-CoV-2 inoculation in mouse models is only seen when the virus entry proteins are expressed abnormally, and the timeline and progression of rare neuro-invasion in these and in other animal models points to alternative routes to the brain, other than along the olfactory projections. COVID-19 patients can be assured that loss of smell does not necessarily mean that the SARS-CoV-2 virus has gained access to and has infected their brains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafal Butowt
- L. Rydygier Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 85-094, Bydgoszcz, Poland.
| | - Nicolas Meunier
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, UVSQ, VIM, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Bertrand Bryche
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, UVSQ, VIM, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Christopher S von Bartheld
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV, 89557, USA.
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88
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Over the course of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, it has become increasingly clear that there is a high prevalence of neurological complications in people infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). RECENT FINDINGS Studies of central nervous system (CNS) tissue in brain model systems and from adults with acute SARS-CoV-2 infection have begun to uncover potential mechanisms for neurological damage during COVID-19. These studies suggest that direct viral invasion of the CNS occurs in a subset of cases but does not frequently cause overt viral meningoencephalitis. Vascular abnormalities including microvascular thrombi and endothelial activation, as well as parainfectious processes, including CNS specific immune responses, may contribute to neurological symptoms during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. SUMMARY Neuroimmune perturbations and vascular inflammation observed in people with COVID-19 may warrant investigation of immune-modulating interventions to ameliorate neurological complications associated with acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. These therapies may also impact the trajectory of potential long-term complications of COVID-19.
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89
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Goldman M, Hermans C. Thrombotic thrombocytopenia associated with COVID-19 infection or vaccination: Possible paths to platelet factor 4 autoimmunity. PLoS Med 2021; 18:e1003648. [PMID: 34029337 PMCID: PMC8153497 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Michel Goldman and Cédric Hermans discuss thrombotic mechanisms in COVID-19 and rare adverse reactions to SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Goldman
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Innovation in Healthcare, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Cédric Hermans
- Division of Hematology, Hemostasis and Thrombosis Unit, Saint-Luc University Hospital, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Brussels, Belgium
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90
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Lionetti V, Bollini S, Coppini R, Gerbino A, Ghigo A, Iaccarino G, Madonna R, Mangiacapra F, Miragoli M, Moccia F, Munaron L, Pagliaro P, Parenti A, Pasqua T, Penna C, Quaini F, Rocca C, Samaja M, Sartiani L, Soda T, Tocchetti CG, Angelone T. Understanding the heart-brain axis response in COVID-19 patients: A suggestive perspective for therapeutic development. Pharmacol Res 2021; 168:105581. [PMID: 33781873 PMCID: PMC7997688 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In-depth characterization of heart-brain communication in critically ill patients with severe acute respiratory failure is attracting significant interest in the COronaVIrus Disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic era during intensive care unit (ICU) stay and after ICU or hospital discharge. Emerging research has provided new insights into pathogenic role of the deregulation of the heart-brain axis (HBA), a bidirectional flow of information, in leading to severe multiorgan disease syndrome (MODS) in patients with confirmed infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Noteworthy, HBA dysfunction may worsen the outcome of the COVID-19 patients. In this review, we discuss the critical role HBA plays in both promoting and limiting MODS in COVID-19. We also highlight the role of HBA as new target for novel therapeutic strategies in COVID-19 in order to open new translational frontiers of care. This is a translational perspective from the Italian Society of Cardiovascular Researches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Lionetti
- Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy; UOSVD Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Sveva Bollini
- Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Raffaele Coppini
- Department of NEUROFARBA, Center of Molecular Medicine, University of Firenze, 50139 Firenze, Italy
| | - Andrea Gerbino
- Department of Bioscience, Biotechnology and Biopharmaceuticals, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Ghigo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Guido Iaccarino
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University, Italy
| | - Rosalinda Madonna
- Institute of Cardiology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Center for Cardiovascular Biology and Atherosclerosis Research, McGovern School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Fabio Mangiacapra
- Unit of Cardiovascular Science, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Miragoli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Francesco Moccia
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Laboratory of General Physiology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Luca Munaron
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Pasquale Pagliaro
- Clinical and Biological Sciences Department, University of Turin, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Astrid Parenti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Teresa Pasqua
- Department of Health Science, University of Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Claudia Penna
- Clinical and Biological Sciences Department, University of Turin, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Federico Quaini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University Hospital of Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Carmine Rocca
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Patho-Physiology, Department of Biology, E. and E.S., University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Michele Samaja
- Department of Health Science, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Sartiani
- Department of NEUROFARBA, Center of Molecular Medicine, University of Firenze, 50139 Firenze, Italy
| | - Teresa Soda
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Carlo Gabriele Tocchetti
- Interdepartmental Center of Clinical and Translational Research, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Tommaso Angelone
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Patho-Physiology, Department of Biology, E. and E.S., University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy
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91
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Sessa F, Salerno M, Pomara C. Autopsy Tool in Unknown Diseases: The Experience with Coronaviruses (SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2). MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:309. [PMID: 33806100 PMCID: PMC8064502 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57040309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In the last two decades, three unknown pathogens have caused outbreaks, generating severe global health concerns. In 2003, after nucleic acid genotyping, a new virus was named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). After nine years, another coronavirus emerged in the middle east and was named MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus). Finally, in December 2019, a new unknown coronavirus was isolated from a cluster of patients and was named SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19, coronavirus disease 2019). This review aims to propose a complete overview of autopsy in the three coronaviruses over the past two decades, showing its pivotal role in the management of unknown diseases. A total of 116 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria: 14 studies were collected concerning SARS-CoV (87 autopsy reports, from Asian and American countries), 2 studies for MERS-CoV (2 autopsy reports, from Middle-East Asian countries), and 100 studies on SARS-CoV-2 (930 autopsy reports). Analyzing the data obtained on COVID-19, based on the country criterion, a large number of post-mortem investigation were performed in European countries (580 reports), followed by American countries (251 reports). It is interesting to note that no data were found from the Oceanic countries, maybe because of the minor involvement of the outbreak. In all cases, autopsy provided much information about each unknown coronavirus. Despite advanced technologies in the diagnostic fields, to date, autopsy remains the gold standard method to understand the biological features and the pathogenesis of unknown infections, especially when awareness of a pathogen is restricted and the impact on the healthcare system is substantial. The knowledge gained through this technique may positively influence therapeutic strategies, ultimately reducing mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sessa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Monica Salerno
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy;
| | - Cristoforo Pomara
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy;
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92
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Carro B. SARS-CoV-2 mechanisms of action and impact on human organism, risk factors and potential treatments. An exhaustive survey. ALL LIFE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/26895293.2021.1977186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Belén Carro
- Department of Signal Theory and Communications, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
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93
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Marik PE, Iglesias J, Varon J, Kory P. A scoping review of the pathophysiology of COVID-19. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2021; 35:20587384211048026. [PMID: 34569339 PMCID: PMC8477699 DOI: 10.1177/20587384211048026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is a highly heterogeneous and complex medical disorder; indeed, severe COVID-19 is probably amongst the most complex of medical conditions known to medical science. While enormous strides have been made in understanding the molecular pathways involved in patients infected with coronaviruses an overarching and comprehensive understanding of the pathogenesis of COVID-19 is lacking. Such an understanding is essential in the formulation of effective prophylactic and treatment strategies. Based on clinical, proteomic, and genomic studies as well as autopsy data severe COVID-19 disease can be considered to be the connection of three basic pathologic processes, namely a pulmonary macrophage activation syndrome with uncontrolled inflammation, a complement-mediated endothelialitis together with a procoagulant state with a thrombotic microangiopathy. In addition, platelet activation with the release of serotonin and the activation and degranulation of mast cells contributes to the hyper-inflammatory state. Auto-antibodies have been demonstrated in a large number of hospitalized patients which adds to the end-organ damage and pro-thrombotic state. This paper provides a clinical overview of the major pathogenetic mechanism leading to severe COVID-19 disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul E Marik
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
- Front Line Covid-19 Critical Care Alliance
| | - Jose Iglesias
- Department of Nephrology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ, USA
- Front Line Covid-19 Critical Care Alliance
| | - Joseph Varon
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, United Memorial Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Front Line Covid-19 Critical Care Alliance
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