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Hamlin RE, Blish CA. Challenges and opportunities in long COVID research. Immunity 2024; 57:1195-1214. [PMID: 38865966 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2024.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Long COVID (LC) is a condition in which patients do not fully recover from the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection but rather have persistent or new symptoms for months to years following the infection. Ongoing research efforts are investigating the pathophysiologic mechanisms of LC and exploring preventative and therapeutic treatment approaches for patients. As a burgeoning area of investigation, LC research can be structured to be more inclusive, innovative, and effective. In this perspective, we highlight opportunities for patient engagement and diverse research expertise, as well as the challenges of developing definitions and reproducible studies. Our intention is to provide a foundation for collaboration and progress in understanding the biomarkers and mechanisms driving LC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Catherine A Blish
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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2
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Singh A, Adam A, Aditi, Peng BH, Yu X, Zou J, Kulkarni VV, Kan P, Jiang W, Shi PY, Samir P, Cisneros I, Wang T. A murine model of post-acute neurological sequelae following SARS-CoV-2 variant infection. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1384516. [PMID: 38765009 PMCID: PMC11099216 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1384516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Viral variant is one known risk factor associated with post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), yet the pathogenesis is largely unknown. Here, we studied SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant-induced PASC in K18-hACE2 mice. The virus replicated productively, induced robust inflammatory responses in lung and brain tissues, and caused weight loss and mortality during the acute infection. Longitudinal behavior studies in surviving mice up to 4 months post-acute infection revealed persistent abnormalities in neuropsychiatric state and motor behaviors, while reflex and sensory functions recovered over time. In the brain, no detectable viral RNA and minimal residential immune cell activation was observed in the surviving mice post-acute infection. Transcriptome analysis revealed persistent activation of immune pathways, including humoral responses, complement, and phagocytosis, and gene expression levels associated with ataxia telangiectasia, impaired cognitive function and memory recall, and neuronal dysfunction and degeneration. Furthermore, surviving mice maintained potent systemic T helper 1 prone cellular immune responses and strong sera neutralizing antibodies against Delta and Omicron variants months post-acute infection. Overall, our findings suggest that infection in K18-hACE2 mice recapitulates the persistent clinical symptoms reported in long-COVID patients and provides new insights into the role of systemic and brain residential immune factors in PASC pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Singh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Awadalkareem Adam
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Aditi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Bi-Hung Peng
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Xiaoying Yu
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Jing Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Vikram V. Kulkarni
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Peter Kan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Pei-Yong Shi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Parimal Samir
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Irma Cisneros
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
- NeuroInfectious Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
- Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Tian Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
- NeuroInfectious Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
- Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
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Wongchitrat P, Chanmee T, Govitrapong P. Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Neurodegeneration of Neurotropic Viral Infection. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:2881-2903. [PMID: 37946006 PMCID: PMC11043213 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03761-6] [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] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Viral infections of the central nervous system (CNS) cause variable outcomes from acute to severe neurological sequelae with increased morbidity and mortality. Viral neuroinvasion directly or indirectly induces encephalitis via dysregulation of the immune response and contributes to the alteration of neuronal function and the degeneration of neuronal cells. This review provides an overview of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of virus-induced neurodegeneration. Neurotropic viral infections influence many aspects of neuronal dysfunction, including promoting chronic inflammation, inducing cellular oxidative stress, impairing mitophagy, encountering mitochondrial dynamics, enhancing metabolic rewiring, altering neurotransmitter systems, and inducing misfolded and aggregated pathological proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases. These pathogenetic mechanisms create a multidimensional injury of the brain that leads to specific neuronal and brain dysfunction. The understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the neurophathogenesis associated with neurodegeneration of viral infection may emphasize the strategies for prevention, protection, and treatment of virus infection of the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prapimpun Wongchitrat
- Center for Research Innovation and Biomedical Informatics, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, 999 Phutthamonthon 4 Road, Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand.
| | - Theerawut Chanmee
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
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El-Mansoury B, Smimih K, El Khiat A, Draoui A, Aimrane A, Chatoui R, Ferssiwi A, Bitar A, Gamrani H, Jayakumar AR, El Hiba O. Short Working Memory Impairment Associated with Hippocampal Microglia Activation in Chronic Hepatic Encephalopathy. Metabolites 2024; 14:193. [PMID: 38668321 PMCID: PMC11052478 DOI: 10.3390/metabo14040193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a major neuropsychological condition that occursas a result of impaired liver function. It is frequently observed in patients with advanced liver disease or cirrhosis. Memory impairment is among the symptoms of HE; the pathophysiologic mechanism for this enervating condition remains unclear. However, it is possible that neuroinflammation may be involved, as recent studies have emphasized such phenomena. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to assess short working memory (SWM) and examine the involvement of microglia in a chronic model of HE. The study was carried out with male Wistar rats that were induced by repeated thioacetamide (TAA) administration (100 mg/kg i.p injection for 10 days). SWM function was assessed through Y-maze, T-Maze, and novel object recognition (NOR) tests, together with an immunofluorescence study of microglia activation within the hippocampal areas. Our data showed impaired SWM in TAA-treated rats that was associated with microglial activation in the three hippocampal regions, and which contributed to cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal El-Mansoury
- Laboratory of Anthropogenic, Biotechnology and Health, Nutritional Physiopathologies, Neurosciences and Toxicology Team, Faculty of Sciences, Chouaib Doukkali University, Av. Des Facultés, El Jadida 24000, Morocco; (B.E.-M.); (A.E.K.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (A.B.)
| | - Kamal Smimih
- Laboratory of Genie-Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni Mellal 23000, Morocco; (K.S.); (R.C.)
| | - Abdelaati El Khiat
- Laboratory of Anthropogenic, Biotechnology and Health, Nutritional Physiopathologies, Neurosciences and Toxicology Team, Faculty of Sciences, Chouaib Doukkali University, Av. Des Facultés, El Jadida 24000, Morocco; (B.E.-M.); (A.E.K.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (A.B.)
- Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques, Ministry of Health, Ouarzazate 45000, Morocco
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Neurosciences and Environment, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech 40000, Morocco
| | - Ahmed Draoui
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Neurosciences and Environment, Faculty of Science Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech 40000, Morocco; (A.D.); (H.G.)
| | - Abdelmohcine Aimrane
- Laboratory of Anthropogenic, Biotechnology and Health, Nutritional Physiopathologies, Neurosciences and Toxicology Team, Faculty of Sciences, Chouaib Doukkali University, Av. Des Facultés, El Jadida 24000, Morocco; (B.E.-M.); (A.E.K.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (A.B.)
| | - Redouane Chatoui
- Laboratory of Genie-Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni Mellal 23000, Morocco; (K.S.); (R.C.)
| | - Abdesslam Ferssiwi
- Laboratory of Anthropogenic, Biotechnology and Health, Nutritional Physiopathologies, Neurosciences and Toxicology Team, Faculty of Sciences, Chouaib Doukkali University, Av. Des Facultés, El Jadida 24000, Morocco; (B.E.-M.); (A.E.K.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (A.B.)
| | - Abdelali Bitar
- Laboratory of Anthropogenic, Biotechnology and Health, Nutritional Physiopathologies, Neurosciences and Toxicology Team, Faculty of Sciences, Chouaib Doukkali University, Av. Des Facultés, El Jadida 24000, Morocco; (B.E.-M.); (A.E.K.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (A.B.)
| | - Halima Gamrani
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Neurosciences and Environment, Faculty of Science Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech 40000, Morocco; (A.D.); (H.G.)
| | | | - Omar El Hiba
- Laboratory of Anthropogenic, Biotechnology and Health, Nutritional Physiopathologies, Neurosciences and Toxicology Team, Faculty of Sciences, Chouaib Doukkali University, Av. Des Facultés, El Jadida 24000, Morocco; (B.E.-M.); (A.E.K.); (A.A.); (A.F.); (A.B.)
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5
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Peluso MJ, Abdel-Mohsen M, Henrich TJ, Roan NR. Systems analysis of innate and adaptive immunity in Long COVID. Semin Immunol 2024; 72:101873. [PMID: 38460395 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2024.101873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, significant progress has been made in developing effective preventive and therapeutic strategies against severe acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, the management of Long COVID (LC), an infection-associated chronic condition that has been estimated to affect 5-20% of individuals following SARS-CoV-2 infection, remains challenging due to our limited understanding of its mechanisms. Although LC is a heterogeneous disease that is likely to have several subtypes, immune system disturbances appear common across many cases. The extent to which these immune perturbations contribute to LC symptoms, however, is not entirely clear. Recent advancements in multi-omics technologies, capable of detailed, cell-level analysis, have provided valuable insights into the immune perturbations associated with LC. Although these studies are largely descriptive in nature, they are the crucial first step towards a deeper understanding of the condition and the immune system's role in its development, progression, and resolution. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of immune perturbations in LC, covering both innate and adaptive immune responses, and the cytokines and analytes involved. We explore whether these findings support or challenge the primary hypotheses about LC's underlying mechanisms. We also discuss the crosstalk between various immune system components and how it can be disrupted in LC. Finally, we emphasize the need for more tissue- and subtype-focused analyses of LC, and for enhanced collaborative efforts to analyze common specimens from large cohorts, including those undergoing therapeutic interventions. These collective efforts are vital to unravel the fundaments of this new disease, and could also shed light on the prevention and treatment of the larger family of chronic illnesses linked to other microbial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Peluso
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | | | - Timothy J Henrich
- Division of Experimental Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Nadia R Roan
- Gladstone Institutes, University of California, San Francisco, USA; Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, USA.
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Huang W, Chen X, Yin M, Li J, Luo M, Ai Y, Xie L, Li W, Liu Y, Xie X, Chen Y, Zhang X, He J. Protection effects of mice liver and lung injury induced by coronavirus infection of Qingfei Paidu decoction involve inhibition of the NLRP3 signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 321:117512. [PMID: 38040130 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a grave and pervasive global infectious malady brought about by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), posing a significant menace to human well-being. Qingfei Paidu decoction (QFPD) represents a pioneering formulation derived from four classical Chinese medicine prescriptions. Substantiated evidence attests to its efficacy in alleviating clinical manifestations, mitigating the incidence of severe and critical conditions, and reducing mortality rates among COVID-19 patients. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aims to investigate the protection effects of QFPD in mice afflicted with a coronavirus infection, with a particular focus on determining whether its mechanism involves the NLRP3 signaling pathway. MATERIALS AND METHODS The coronavirus mice model was established through intranasal infection of Kunming mice with Hepatic Mouse Virus A59 (MHV-A59). In the dose-effect experiment, normal saline, ribavirin (80 mg/kg), or QFPD (5, 10, 20 g/kg) were administered to the mice 2 h following MHV-A59 infection. In the time-effect experiment, normal saline or QFPD (20 g/kg) was administered to mice 2 h post MHV-A59 infection. Following the assessment of mouse body weights, food consumption, and water intake, intragastric administration was conducted once daily at consistent intervals over a span of 5 days. The impact of QFPD on pathological alterations in the livers and lungs of MHV-A59-infected mice was evaluated through H&E staining. The viral loads of MHV-A59 in both the liver and lung were determined using qPCR. The expression levels of genes and proteins related to the NLRP3 pathway in the liver and lung were assessed through qPCR, Western Blot analysis, and immunofluorescence. RESULTS The administration of QFPD was shown to ameliorate the reduced weight gain, decline in food consumption, and diminished water intake, all of which were repercussions of MHV-A59 infection in mice. QFPD treatment exhibited notable efficacy in safeguarding tissue integrity. The extent of hepatic and pulmonary injury, when coupled with QFPD treatment, demonstrated not only a reduction with higher treatment dosages but also a decline with prolonged treatment duration. In the dose-effect experiment, there was a notable, dose-dependent reduction in the viral loads, as well as the expression levels of IL-1β, NLRP3, ASC, Caspase 1, Caspase-1 p20, GSDMD, GSDMD-N, and NF-κB within the liver of the QFPD-treated groups. Additionally, in the time-effects experiments, the viral loads and the expression levels of genes and proteins linked to the NLRP3 pathway were consistently lower in the QFPD-treated groups compared with the model control groups, particularly during the periods when their expressions reached their zenith in the model group. Notably, IL-18 showed only a modest elevation relative to the blank control group following QFPD treatment. CONCLUSIONS To sum up, our current study demonstrated that QFPD treatment has the capacity to alleviate infection-related symptoms, mitigate tissue damage in infected organs, and suppress viral replication in coronavirus-infected mice. The protective attributes of QFPD in coronavirus-infected mice are plausibly associated with its modulation of the NLRP3 signaling pathway. We further infer that QFPD holds substantial promise in the context of coronavirus infection therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenguan Huang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiuyun Chen
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingyu Yin
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Junlin Li
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Minyi Luo
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ying Ai
- Artemisinin Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lei Xie
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wanxi Li
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yatian Liu
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinyuan Xie
- Artemisinin Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuan Chen
- Animal Experiment Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinyu Zhang
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture Moxibustion and Rehabilitation. Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinyang He
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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Mahin A, Soman SP, Modi PK, Raju R, Keshava Prasad TS, Abhinand CS. Meta-analysis of the serum/plasma proteome identifies significant associations between COVID-19 with Alzheimer's/Parkinson's diseases. J Neurovirol 2024; 30:57-70. [PMID: 38167982 DOI: 10.1007/s13365-023-01191-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, we have seen the widespread devastations and serious health complications manifested by COVID-19 globally. Although we have effectively controlled the pandemic, uncertainties persist regarding its potential long-term effects, including prolonged neurological issues. To gain comprehensive insights, we conducted a meta-analysis of mass spectrometry-based proteomics data retrieved from different studies with a total of 538 COVID-19 patients and 523 healthy controls. The meta-analysis revealed that top-enriched pathways were associated with neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Further analysis confirmed a direct correlation in the expression patterns of 24 proteins involved in Alzheimer's and 23 proteins in Parkinson's disease with COVID-19. Protein-protein interaction network and cluster analysis identified SNCA as a hub protein, a known biomarker for Parkinson's disease, in both AD and PD. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first meta-analysis study providing proteomic profiling evidence linking COVID-19 to neurological complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Althaf Mahin
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Sreelakshmi Pathappillil Soman
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Prashant Kumar Modi
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Rajesh Raju
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, Karnataka, 575018, India.
| | | | - Chandran S Abhinand
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, 575018, India.
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Hussain H, Paidas MJ, Rajalakshmi R, Fadel A, Ali M, Chen P, Jayakumar AR. Dermatologic Changes in Experimental Model of Long COVID. Microorganisms 2024; 12:272. [PMID: 38399677 PMCID: PMC10892887 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12020272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic, declared in early 2020, has left an indelible mark on global health, with over 7.0 million deaths and persistent challenges. While the pharmaceutical industry raced to develop vaccines, the emergence of mutant severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) strains continues to pose a significant threat. Beyond the immediate concerns, the long-term health repercussions of COVID-19 survivors are garnering attention, particularly due to documented cases of cardiovascular issues, liver dysfunction, pulmonary complications, kidney impairments, and notable neurocognitive deficits. Recent studies have delved into the pathophysiological changes in various organs following post-acute infection with murine hepatitis virus-1 (MHV-1), a coronavirus, in mice. One aspect that stands out is the impact on the skin, a previously underexplored facet of long-term COVID-19 effects. The research reveals significant cutaneous findings during both the acute and long-term phases post-MHV-1 infection, mirroring certain alterations observed in humans post-SARS-CoV-2 infection. In the acute stages, mice exhibited destruction of the epidermal layer, increased hair follicles, extensive collagen deposition in the dermal layer, and hyperplasticity of sebaceous glands. Moreover, the thinning of the panniculus carnosus and adventitial layer was noted, consistent with human studies. A long-term investigation revealed the absence of hair follicles, destruction of adipose tissues, and further damage to the epidermal layer. Remarkably, treatment with a synthetic peptide, SPIKENET (SPK), designed to prevent Spike glycoprotein-1 binding with host receptors and elicit a potent anti-inflammatory response, showed protection against MHV-1 infection. Precisely, SPK treatment restored hair follicle loss in MHV-1 infection, re-architected the epidermal and dermal layers, and successfully overhauled fatty tissue destruction. These promising findings underscore the potential of SPK as a therapeutic intervention to prevent long-term skin alterations initiated by SARS-CoV-2, providing a glimmer of hope in the battle against the lingering effects of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussain Hussain
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (H.H.); (R.R.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, Larkin Community Hospital, Miami, FL 33143, USA
| | - Michael J. Paidas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (H.H.); (R.R.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Ramamoorthy Rajalakshmi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (H.H.); (R.R.)
| | - Aya Fadel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ocean University Medical Center—Hackensack Meridian Health, Brick Township, NJ 08724, USA;
| | - Misha Ali
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Pingping Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Arumugam R. Jayakumar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (H.H.); (R.R.)
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Singh A, Adam A, Aditi, Peng BH, Yu X, Zou J, Kulkarni VV, Kan P, Jiang W, Shi PY, Samir P, Cisneros I, Wang T. A Murine Model of Post-acute Neurological Sequelae Following SARS-CoV-2 Variant Infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.03.574064. [PMID: 38260531 PMCID: PMC10802283 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.03.574064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Viral variant is one known risk factor associated with post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), yet the pathogenesis is largely unknown. Here, we studied SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant-induced PASC in K18-hACE2 mice. The virus replicated productively, induced robust inflammatory responses in lung and brain tissues, and caused weight loss and mortality during the acute infection. Longitudinal behavior studies in surviving mice up to 4 months post-acute infection revealed persistent abnormalities in neuropsychiatric state and motor behaviors, while reflex and sensory functions recovered over time. Surviving mice showed no detectable viral RNA in the brain and minimal neuroinflammation post-acute infection. Transcriptome analysis revealed persistent activation of immune pathways, including humoral responses, complement, and phagocytosis, and reduced levels of genes associated with ataxia telangiectasia, impaired cognitive function and memory recall, and neuronal dysfunction and degeneration. Furthermore, surviving mice maintained potent T helper 1 prone cellular immune responses and high neutralizing antibodies against Delta and Omicron variants in the periphery for months post-acute infection. Overall, infection in K18-hACE2 mice recapitulates the persistent clinical symptoms reported in long COVID patients and may be useful for future assessment of the efficacy of vaccines and therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2 variants.
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10
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Chen H, Wang J, Ding K, Xu J, Yang Y, Tang C, Zhou Y, Yu W, Wang H, Huang Q, Li B, Kuang D, Wu D, Luo Z, Gao J, Zhao Y, Liu J, Peng X, Lu S, Liu H. Gastrointestinal microbiota and metabolites possibly contribute to distinct pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 proto or its variants in rhesus monkeys. Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2334970. [PMID: 38563680 PMCID: PMC10989708 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2334970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) infection is evidenced with involvement in COVID-19 pathogenesis caused by SARS-CoV-2. However, the correlation between GI microbiota and the distinct pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 Proto and its emerging variants remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to determine if GI microbiota impacted COVID-19 pathogenesis and if the effect varied between SARS-CoV-2 Proto and its variants. We performed an integrative analysis of histopathology, microbiomics, and transcriptomics on the GI tract fragments from rhesus monkeys infected with SARS-CoV-2 proto or its variants. Based on the degree of pathological damage and microbiota profile in the GI tract, five of SARS-CoV-2 strains were classified into two distinct clusters, namely, the clusters of Alpha, Beta and Delta (ABD), and Proto and Omicron (PO). Notably, the abundance of potentially pathogenic microorganisms increased in ABD but not in the PO-infected rhesus monkeys. Specifically, the high abundance of UCG-002, UCG-005, and Treponema in ABD virus-infected animals positively correlated with interleukin, integrins, and antiviral genes. Overall, this study revealed that infection-induced alteration of GI microbiota and metabolites could increase the systemic burdens of inflammation or pathological injury in infected animals, especially in those infected with ABD viruses. Distinct GI microbiota and metabolite profiles may be responsible for the differential pathological phenotypes of PO and ABD virus-infected animals. These findings improve our understanding the roles of the GI microbiota in SARS-CoV-2 infection and provide important information for the precise prevention, control, and treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Chen
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Junbin Wang
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Kaiyun Ding
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jingwen Xu
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yun Yang
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Cong Tang
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yanan Zhou
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Wenhai Yu
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Haixuan Wang
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Qing Huang
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Bai Li
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Dexuan Kuang
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Daoju Wu
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhiwu Luo
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jiahong Gao
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yuan Zhao
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jiansheng Liu
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Xiaozhong Peng
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, IMBCAMS & PUMC, Beijing, China
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, IMBCAMS & PUMC, Beijing, China
| | - Shuaiyao Lu
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Hongqi Liu
- Institute of Medical biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical School (IMBCAMS & PUMC), Kunming, Yunnan, China
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11
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Chen J, Chen J, Lei Z, Zhang F, Zeng LH, Wu X, Li S, Tan J. Amyloid precursor protein facilitates SARS-CoV-2 virus entry into cells and enhances amyloid-β-associated pathology in APP/PS1 mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:396. [PMID: 38104129 PMCID: PMC10725492 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02692-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Although there are indications of a trend towards less severe acute respiratory symptoms and a decline in overall lethality from the novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), more and more attention has been paid to the long COVID, including the increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in COVID-19 patients. In this study, we aim to investigate the involvement of N-terminal amyloid precursor protein (APP) in SARS-CoV-2-induced amyloid-β (Aβ) pathology. Utilizing both in vitro and in vivo methodologies, we first investigated the interaction between the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 and N-terminal APP via LSPR and CoIP assays. The in vitro impacts of APP overexpression on virus infection were further evaluated in HEK293T/ACE2 cells, SH-SY5Y cells, and Vero cells. We also analyzed the pseudovirus infection in vivo in a mouse model overexpressing human wild-type APP. Finally, we evaluated the impact of APP on pseudovirus infection within human brain organoids and assessed the chronic effects of pseudovirus infection on Aβ levels. We reported here for the first time that APP, the precursor of the Aβ of AD, interacts with the Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, both in vivo and in vitro data further indicated that APP promotes the cellular entry of the virus, and exacerbates Aβ-associated pathology in the APP/PS1 mouse model of AD, which can be ameliorated by N-terminal APP blockage. Our findings provide experimental evidence to interpret APP-related mechanisms underlying AD-like neuropathology in COVID-19 patients and may pave the way to help inform risk management and therapeutic strategies against diseases accordingly.
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Grants
- This study was supported by the High-level Talent Foundation of Guizhou Medical University (YJ19017, HY2020, J.T.), Anyu Biopharmaceutics, Inc., Hangzhou (06202010204, J.T.), and Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science foundation (LY19HH090013, ZW),
- Scientific Research Project of higher education Institutions in Guizhou Province [192(2022), J.C.], Science and Technology Program of Guizhou Province [ZK(2023), General 301, J.C.].
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310058, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, 310015, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, 550025, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Junsheng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, 550025, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Zhifeng Lei
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, 550025, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Fengning Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, 550025, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Ling-Hui Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, 310015, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ximei Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Song Li
- First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, 116021, Dalian, Liaoning, China.
| | - Jun Tan
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, 310015, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, 550025, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.
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12
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Amadoro G, Latina V, Stigliano E, Micera A. COVID-19 and Alzheimer's Disease Share Common Neurological and Ophthalmological Manifestations: A Bidirectional Risk in the Post-Pandemic Future. Cells 2023; 12:2601. [PMID: 37998336 PMCID: PMC10670749 DOI: 10.3390/cells12222601] [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] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
A growing body of evidence indicates that a neuropathological cross-talk takes place between the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) -the pandemic severe pneumonia that has had a tremendous impact on the global economy and health since three years after its outbreak in December 2019- and Alzheimer's Disease (AD), the leading cause of dementia among human beings, reaching 139 million by the year 2050. Even though COVID-19 is a primary respiratory disease, its causative agent, the so-called Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is also endowed with high neuro-invasive potential (Neurocovid). The neurological complications of COVID-19, resulting from the direct viral entry into the Central Nervous System (CNS) and/or indirect systemic inflammation and dysregulated activation of immune response, encompass memory decline and anosmia which are typically associated with AD symptomatology. In addition, patients diagnosed with AD are more vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection and are inclined to more severe clinical outcomes. In the present review, we better elucidate the intimate connection between COVID-19 and AD by summarizing the involved risk factors/targets and the underlying biological mechanisms shared by these two disorders with a particular focus on the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, APOlipoprotein E (APOE), aging, neuroinflammation and cellular pathways associated with the Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP)/Amyloid beta (Aβ) and tau neuropathologies. Finally, the involvement of ophthalmological manifestations, including vitreo-retinal abnormalities and visual deficits, in both COVID-19 and AD are also discussed. Understanding the common physiopathological aspects linking COVID-19 and AD will pave the way to novel management and diagnostic/therapeutic approaches to cope with them in the post-pandemic future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Amadoro
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT), National Research Council (CNR), Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133 Rome, Italy;
- European Brain Research Institute (EBRI), Viale Regina Elena 295, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Latina
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT), National Research Council (CNR), Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133 Rome, Italy;
- European Brain Research Institute (EBRI), Viale Regina Elena 295, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Egidio Stigliano
- Area of Pathology, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Istituto di Anatomia Patologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Micera
- Research and Development Laboratory for Biochemical, Molecular and Cellular Applications in Ophthalmological Sciences, IRCCS-Fondazione Bietti, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo, 6, 00184 Rome, Italy
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13
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Tsilioni I, Theoharides TC. Recombinant SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and Its Receptor Binding Domain Stimulate Release of Different Pro-Inflammatory Mediators via Activation of Distinct Receptors on Human Microglia Cells. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:6704-6714. [PMID: 37477768 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03493-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infects cells via its spike (S) protein binding to its surface receptor angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) on target cells and results in acute symptoms involving especially the lungs known as COVID-19. However, increasing evidence indicates that SARS-CoV-2 infection produces neuroinflammation associated with neurological, neuropsychiatric, and cognitive symptoms persists well past the resolution of the infection, known as post-COVID-19 sequalae or long-COVID. The neuroimmune mechanism(s) involved in long-COVID have not been adequately characterized. In this study, we show that recombinant SARS-CoV-2 full-length S protein stimulates release of pro-inflammatory IL-1b, CXCL8, IL-6, and MMP-9 from cultured human microglia via TLR4 receptor activation. Instead, recombinant receptor-binding domain (RBD) stimulates release of TNF-α, IL-18, and S100B via ACE2 signaling. These results provide evidence that SARS-CoV-2 spike protein contributes to neuroinflammation through different mechanisms that may be involved in CNS pathologies associated with long-COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Tsilioni
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Suite 304, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
| | - Theoharis C Theoharides
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Suite 304, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
- Institute of Neuro-Immune Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Clearwater, FL, 33759, USA
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14
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Kempuraj D, Aenlle KK, Cohen J, Mathew A, Isler D, Pangeni RP, Nathanson L, Theoharides TC, Klimas NG. COVID-19 and Long COVID: Disruption of the Neurovascular Unit, Blood-Brain Barrier, and Tight Junctions. Neuroscientist 2023:10738584231194927. [PMID: 37694571 DOI: 10.1177/10738584231194927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), could affect brain structure and function. SARS-CoV-2 can enter the brain through different routes, including the olfactory, trigeminal, and vagus nerves, and through blood and immunocytes. SARS-CoV-2 may also enter the brain from the peripheral blood through a disrupted blood-brain barrier (BBB). The neurovascular unit in the brain, composed of neurons, astrocytes, endothelial cells, and pericytes, protects brain parenchyma by regulating the entry of substances from the blood. The endothelial cells, pericytes, and astrocytes highly express angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), indicating that the BBB can be disturbed by SARS-CoV-2 and lead to derangements of tight junction and adherens junction proteins. This leads to increased BBB permeability, leakage of blood components, and movement of immune cells into the brain parenchyma. SARS-CoV-2 may also cross microvascular endothelial cells through an ACE2 receptor-associated pathway. The exact mechanism of BBB dysregulation in COVID-19/neuro-COVID is not clearly known, nor is the development of long COVID. Various blood biomarkers could indicate disease severity and neurologic complications in COVID-19 and help objectively diagnose those developing long COVID. This review highlights the importance of neurovascular and BBB disruption, as well as some potentially useful biomarkers in COVID-19, and long COVID/neuro-COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duraisamy Kempuraj
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Kristina K Aenlle
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA
- Miami Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jessica Cohen
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Annette Mathew
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Dylan Isler
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Rajendra P Pangeni
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Lubov Nathanson
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Theoharis C Theoharides
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nancy G Klimas
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA
- Miami Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Miami, FL, USA
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15
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Cheong JG, Ravishankar A, Sharma S, Parkhurst CN, Grassmann SA, Wingert CK, Laurent P, Ma S, Paddock L, Miranda IC, Karakaslar EO, Nehar-Belaid D, Thibodeau A, Bale MJ, Kartha VK, Yee JK, Mays MY, Jiang C, Daman AW, Martinez de Paz A, Ahimovic D, Ramos V, Lercher A, Nielsen E, Alvarez-Mulett S, Zheng L, Earl A, Yallowitz A, Robbins L, LaFond E, Weidman KL, Racine-Brzostek S, Yang HS, Price DR, Leyre L, Rendeiro AF, Ravichandran H, Kim J, Borczuk AC, Rice CM, Jones RB, Schenck EJ, Kaner RJ, Chadburn A, Zhao Z, Pascual V, Elemento O, Schwartz RE, Buenrostro JD, Niec RE, Barrat FJ, Lief L, Sun JC, Ucar D, Josefowicz SZ. Epigenetic memory of coronavirus infection in innate immune cells and their progenitors. Cell 2023; 186:3882-3902.e24. [PMID: 37597510 PMCID: PMC10638861 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation can trigger lasting phenotypes in immune and non-immune cells. Whether and how human infections and associated inflammation can form innate immune memory in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC) has remained unclear. We found that circulating HSPC, enriched from peripheral blood, captured the diversity of bone marrow HSPC, enabling investigation of their epigenomic reprogramming following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Alterations in innate immune phenotypes and epigenetic programs of HSPC persisted for months to 1 year following severe COVID-19 and were associated with distinct transcription factor (TF) activities, altered regulation of inflammatory programs, and durable increases in myelopoiesis. HSPC epigenomic alterations were conveyed, through differentiation, to progeny innate immune cells. Early activity of IL-6 contributed to these persistent phenotypes in human COVID-19 and a mouse coronavirus infection model. Epigenetic reprogramming of HSPC may underlie altered immune function following infection and be broadly relevant, especially for millions of COVID-19 survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Gyu Cheong
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Arjun Ravishankar
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Siddhartha Sharma
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032, USA
| | | | - Simon A Grassmann
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Claire K Wingert
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Paoline Laurent
- HSS Research Institute, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Sai Ma
- Gene Regulation Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Lucinda Paddock
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | - Emin Onur Karakaslar
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032, USA; Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Asa Thibodeau
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032, USA
| | - Michael J Bale
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Vinay K Kartha
- Gene Regulation Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Jim K Yee
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Minh Y Mays
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Chenyang Jiang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Andrew W Daman
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Alexia Martinez de Paz
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Dughan Ahimovic
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Victor Ramos
- The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | - Erik Nielsen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | - Ling Zheng
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Andrew Earl
- Gene Regulation Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Alisha Yallowitz
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Lexi Robbins
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | - Karissa L Weidman
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Sabrina Racine-Brzostek
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - He S Yang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - David R Price
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Louise Leyre
- Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - André F Rendeiro
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Hiranmayi Ravichandran
- Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Junbum Kim
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Alain C Borczuk
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Northwell Health, Greenvale, NY 11548, USA
| | | | - R Brad Jones
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Edward J Schenck
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Robert J Kaner
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Amy Chadburn
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Zhen Zhao
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Virginia Pascual
- Department of Pediatrics, Gale and Ira Drukier Institute for Children's Health, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Olivier Elemento
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Robert E Schwartz
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Jason D Buenrostro
- Gene Regulation Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Rachel E Niec
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Franck J Barrat
- Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; HSS Research Institute, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY 10021, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Lindsay Lief
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Joseph C Sun
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Duygu Ucar
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032, USA; Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | - Steven Z Josefowicz
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA; Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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16
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Ramamoorthy R, Hussain H, Ravelo N, Sriramajayam K, Di Gregorio DM, Paulrasu K, Chen P, Young K, Masciarella AD, Jayakumar AR, Paidas MJ. Kidney Damage in Long COVID: Studies in Experimental Mice. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1070. [PMID: 37626956 PMCID: PMC10452084 DOI: 10.3390/biology12081070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Signs and symptoms involving multiple organ systems which persist for weeks or months to years after the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection (also known as PASC or long COVID) are common complications of individuals with COVID-19. We recently reported pathophysiological changes in various organs post-acute infection of mice with mouse hepatitis virus-1 (MHV-1, a coronavirus) (7 days) and after long-term post-infection (12 months). One of the organs severely affected in this animal model is the kidney, which correlated well with human studies showing kidney injury post-SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our long-term post-infection pathological observation in kidneys includes the development of edema and inflammation of the renal parenchyma, severe acute tubular necrosis, and infiltration of macrophages and lymphocytes, in addition to changes observed in both acute and long-term post-infection, which include tubular epithelial cell degenerative changes, peritubular vessel congestion, proximal and distal tubular necrosis, hemorrhage in the interstitial tissue, and vacuolation of renal tubules. These findings strongly suggest the possible development of renal fibrosis, in particular in the long-term post-infection. Accordingly, we investigated whether the signaling system that is known to initiate the above-mentioned changes in kidneys in other conditions is also activated in long-term post-MHV-1 infection. We found increased TGF-β1, FGF23, NGAL, IL-18, HIF1-α, TLR2, YKL-40, and B2M mRNA levels in long-term post-MHV-1 infection, but not EGFR, TNFR1, BCL3, and WFDC2. However, only neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) increased in acute infection (7 days). Immunoblot studies showed an elevation in protein levels of HIF1-α, TLR-2, and EGFR in long-term post-MHV-1 infection, while KIM-1 and MMP-7 protein levels are increased in acute infection. Treatment with a synthetic peptide, SPIKENET (SPK), which inhibits spike protein binding, reduced NGAL mRNA in acute infection, and decreased TGF-β1, BCL3 mRNA, EGFR, HIF1-α, and TLR-2 protein levels long-term post-MHV-1 infection. These findings suggest that fibrotic events may initiate early in SARS-CoV-2 infection, leading to pronounced kidney fibrosis in long COVID. Targeting these factors therapeutically may prevent acute or long-COVID-associated kidney complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajalakshmi Ramamoorthy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (R.R.); (N.R.)
| | - Hussain Hussain
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, Larkin Community Hospital, Miami, FL 33143, USA;
| | - Natalia Ravelo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (R.R.); (N.R.)
| | - Kannappan Sriramajayam
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Dibe M. Di Gregorio
- University of Miami College of Arts and Sciences, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA;
| | - Kodisundaram Paulrasu
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Pingping Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (P.C.); (K.Y.)
| | - Karen Young
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (P.C.); (K.Y.)
| | | | - Arumugam R. Jayakumar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (R.R.); (N.R.)
| | - Michael J. Paidas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (R.R.); (N.R.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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17
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Tsilioni I, Theoharides TC. Recombinant SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Stimulates Secretion of Chymase, Tryptase, and IL-1β from Human Mast Cells, Augmented by IL-33. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119487. [PMID: 37298438 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infects cells via its spike (S) protein binding to its surface receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and results in the production of multiple proinflammatory cytokines, especially in the lungs, leading to what is known as COVID-19. However, the cell source and the mechanism of secretion of such cytokines have not been adequately characterized. In this study, we used human cultured mast cells that are plentiful in the lungs and showed that recombinant SARS-CoV-2 full-length S protein (1-10 ng/mL), but not its receptor-binding domain (RBD), stimulates the secretion of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β (IL-1β) as well as the proteolytic enzymes chymase and tryptase. The secretion of IL-1β, chymase, and tryptase is augmented by the co-administration of interleukin-33 (IL-33) (30 ng/mL). This effect is mediated via toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) for IL-1β and via ACE2 for chymase and tryptase. These results provide evidence that the SARS-CoV-2 S protein contributes to inflammation by stimulating mast cells through different receptors and could lead to new targeted treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Tsilioni
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Theoharis C Theoharides
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Institute of Neuro-Immune Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Clearwater, FL 33759, USA
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18
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Cabrera-Rodríguez R, Pérez-Yanes S, Lorenzo-Sánchez I, Estévez-Herrera J, García-Luis J, Trujillo-González R, Valenzuela-Fernández A. TDP-43 Controls HIV-1 Viral Production and Virus Infectiveness. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087658. [PMID: 37108826 PMCID: PMC10142003 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The transactive response DNA-binding protein (TARDBP/TDP-43) is known to stabilize the anti-HIV-1 factor, histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6). TDP-43 has been reported to determine cell permissivity to HIV-1 fusion and infection acting on tubulin-deacetylase HDAC6. Here, we studied the functional involvement of TDP-43 in the late stages of the HIV-1 viral cycle. The overexpression of TDP-43, in virus-producing cells, stabilized HDAC6 (i.e., mRNA and protein) and triggered the autophagic clearance of HIV-1 Pr55Gag and Vif proteins. These events inhibited viral particle production and impaired virion infectiveness, observing a reduction in the amount of Pr55Gag and Vif proteins incorporated into virions. A nuclear localization signal (NLS)-TDP-43 mutant was not able to control HIV-1 viral production and infection. Likewise, specific TDP-43-knockdown reduced HDAC6 expression (i.e., mRNA and protein) and increased the expression level of HIV-1 Vif and Pr55Gag proteins and α-tubulin acetylation. Thus, TDP-43 silencing favored virion production and enhanced virus infectious capacity, thereby increasing the amount of Vif and Pr55Gag proteins incorporated into virions. Noteworthy, there was a direct relationship between the content of Vif and Pr55Gag proteins in virions and their infection capacity. Therefore, for TDP-43, the TDP-43/HDAC6 axis could be considered a key factor to control HIV-1 viral production and virus infectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina Cabrera-Rodríguez
- Laboratorio "Inmunología Celular y Viral", Unidad de Farmacología, Sección de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), 38320 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Silvia Pérez-Yanes
- Laboratorio "Inmunología Celular y Viral", Unidad de Farmacología, Sección de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), 38320 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Iria Lorenzo-Sánchez
- Laboratorio "Inmunología Celular y Viral", Unidad de Farmacología, Sección de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), 38320 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Judith Estévez-Herrera
- Laboratorio "Inmunología Celular y Viral", Unidad de Farmacología, Sección de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), 38320 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Jonay García-Luis
- Laboratorio "Inmunología Celular y Viral", Unidad de Farmacología, Sección de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), 38320 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Rodrigo Trujillo-González
- Laboratorio "Inmunología Celular y Viral", Unidad de Farmacología, Sección de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), 38320 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
- Analysis Department, Faculty of Mathematics, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), 38296 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Agustín Valenzuela-Fernández
- Laboratorio "Inmunología Celular y Viral", Unidad de Farmacología, Sección de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), 38320 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
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19
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Reviewing the Potential Links between Viral Infections and TDP-43 Proteinopathies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021581. [PMID: 36675095 PMCID: PMC9867397 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Transactive response DNA binding protein 43 kDa (TDP-43) was discovered in 2001 as a cellular factor capable to inhibit HIV-1 gene expression. Successively, it was brought to new life as the most prevalent RNA-binding protein involved in several neurological disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). Despite the fact that these two research areas could be considered very distant from each other, in recent years an increasing number of publications pointed out the existence of a potentially important connection. Indeed, the ability of TDP-43 to act as an important regulator of all aspects of RNA metabolism makes this protein also a critical factor during expression of viral RNAs. Here, we summarize all recent observations regarding the involvement of TDP-43 in viral entry, replication and latency in several viruses that include enteroviruses (EVs), Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs), hepatitis B virus (HBV), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), West Nile virus (WNV), and herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV). In particular, in this work, we aimed to highlight the presence of similarities with the most commonly studied TDP-43 related neuronal dysfunctions.
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