Rare predicted loss-of-function variants of type I IFN immunity genes are associated with life-threatening COVID-19

The value of Interferon β in multiple sclerosis and novel opportunities for its anti-viral activity: a narrative literature review

Interferon-beta (IFN-β) for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is turning 30. The COVID-19 pandemic rejuvenated the interest in interferon biology in health and disease, opening translational opportunities beyond neuroinflammation. The antiviral properties of this molecule are in accord with the hypothesis of a viral etiology of MS, for which a credible culprit has been identified in the Epstein-Barr Virus. Likely, IFNs are crucial in the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection, as demonstrated by inherited and acquired impairments of the interferon response that predispose to a severe COVID-19 course. Accordingly, IFN-β exerted protection against SARS-CoV-2 in people with MS (pwMS). In this viewpoint, we summarize the evidence on IFN-β mechanisms of action in MS with a focus on its antiviral properties, especially against EBV. We synopsize the role of IFNs in COVID-19 and the opportunities and challenges of IFN-β usage for this condition. Finally, we leverage the lessons learned in the pandemic to suggest a role of IFN-β in long-COVID-19 and in special MS subpopulations.

Inflammasomes: a rising star on the horizon of COVID-19 pathophysiology

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a contagious respiratory virus that is the cause of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic which has posed a serious threat to public health. COVID-19 is characterized by a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from asymptomatic infection to mild cold-like symptoms, severe pneumonia or even death. Inflammasomes are supramolecular signaling platforms that assemble in response to danger or microbial signals. Upon activation, inflammasomes mediate innate immune defense by favoring the release of proinflammatory cytokines and triggering pyroptotic cell death. Nevertheless, abnormalities in inflammasome functioning can result in a variety of human diseases such as autoimmune disorders and cancer. A growing body of evidence has showed that SARS-CoV-2 infection can induce inflammasome assembly. Dysregulated inflammasome activation and consequent cytokine burst have been associated with COVID-19 severity, alluding to the implication of inflammasomes in COVID-19 pathophysiology. Accordingly, an improved understanding of inflammasome-mediated inflammatory cascades in COVID-19 is essential to uncover the immunological mechanisms of COVID-19 pathology and identify effective therapeutic approaches for this devastating disease. In this review, we summarize the most recent findings on the interplay between SARS-CoV-2 and inflammasomes and the contribution of activated inflammasomes to COVID-19 progression. We dissect the mechanisms involving the inflammasome machinery in COVID-19 immunopathogenesis. In addition, we provide an overview of inflammasome-targeted therapies or antagonists that have potential clinical utility in COVID-19 treatment.