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Parveen N. COVID-19 vaccination and menstrual disturbances: A prospective study from Pakistan. Pak J Med Sci 2024; 40:1345-1348. [PMID: 39092064 PMCID: PMC11255808 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.40.7.8709] [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: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate whether or not immunization against COVID-19 is associated with changes in the duration and frequency of the menstrual cycle. Methods This prospective analysis included the menstrual cycle data of 154 females after COVID-19 vaccination from August 2021 to March 2022. This study included Pakistani females aged 18 to 45 years and who had taken at-least one dose of COVID-19 vaccination. After two months of COVID vaccine the participants were interviewed again about the timing and duration of their menstrual cycle. The increase in menstrual length for >eight days was labelled as increased menstrual cycle duration. Results Mean age of participants was 33.53±8.52 years. Among 154, 113 (73.4%) were married. Among 154 females, menstrual abnormality was reported by 59 (38.3%) females, increase in cycle duration was reported by 25 (16.2%) patients and decrease by 22 (14.3%), increase in number of bleeding days by 20 (13%) females and decrease by 15 (9.7%), increase in pain intensity was reported by 19 (12.3%) females and decrease by 17 (11.0%), increased intensity of blood flow was reported by 20 (13.0%) patients and decreased intensity by 19 (12.3%) females. Conclusion COVID-19 vaccination is not associated with menstrual abnormalities in a significant number of females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuzhat Parveen
- Correspondence: Nuzhat Parveen Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Ha’il, Ha’il-81451, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).
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Kumar DS, Prasanth K, Bhandari A, Kumar Jha V, Naveen A, Prasanna M. Innovations and Challenges in the Development of COVID-19 Vaccines for a Safer Tomorrow. Cureus 2024; 16:e60015. [PMID: 38854201 PMCID: PMC11162516 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.60015] [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] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaccination, a historically effective public health intervention, has shielded millions from various diseases. Lessons from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) have improved COVID-19 vaccine development. Despite mRNA vaccines' efficacy, emerging variants pose challenges, exhibiting increased transmissibility, infectivity, and severity. Developing COVID-19 vaccines has faced hurdles due to urgency, limited virus understanding, and the need for safe solutions. Genetic variability necessitates continuous vaccine adjustments and production challenges demand scaling up manufacturing with stringent quality control. This review explores SARS-CoV-2's evolution, upcoming mutations that challenge vaccines, and strategies such as structure-based, T cell-based, respiratory mucosal-based, and nanotechnology approaches for vaccine development. This review insight provides a roadmap for navigating virus evolution and improving vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devika S Kumar
- Research, Panimalar Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Chennai, IND
| | - Krishna Prasanth
- Department of Community Medicine, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, IND
| | - Ashni Bhandari
- Department of Community Medicine, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, IND
| | - Vivek Kumar Jha
- Department of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology, Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary (SGT) University, Haryana, IND
| | - Avula Naveen
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, All India Institute Of Medical Science Bilaspur, Bilaspur, IND
| | - Muthu Prasanna
- Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Surya School of Pharmacy, Surya Group of Institutions, Villupuram, IND
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Zhu Y, Hu X, Zhu K, Zhou Q, Sun J, Zhong Z, Zhang X. Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 contributed to reducing the prevalence of depression in Chinese adults - A cross-sectional study. J Affect Disord 2024; 349:407-413. [PMID: 38190859 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.035] [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: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND SARS-CoV-2 vaccination has been reported to improve mental health. However, few relevant data were collected in China. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on the risk of depression in China and risk factors contributing to depression. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study carried out from May 2020 to July 2021. Participants were widely recruited in China to participate in the survey using an online questionnaire including Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, Athens Insomnia Scale-8.After exclusion of 105 ineligible questionnaires, 9452 participants were included in our final analysis. Chi-square test and Multivariable logistic regression analysis were used to analyze data. RESULTS Of the 9452 participants, 7207 were vaccinated. Our results showed that the prevalence of depression decreased significantly after vaccination (56.1 % for unvaccinated participants vs. 19.7 % for vaccinated participants). The prevalence of mild, moderate and severe depression was also significantly lower in the vaccinated participants than in the unvaccinated participants (14.8 % vs 29.0 %, 2.8 % vs 13.3 %, 2.0 % vs 13.8 %, respectively). Besides, among vaccinated participants, male and aged participants had a lower chance of developing depression (AOR = 1.34; AOR = 0.63; AOR = 0.5, respectively). In addition, although with vaccination, participants with anxiety and insomnia were more likely to suffer from depression (AOR = 29.2; AOR = 11.89). LIMITATIONS The study was a cross-sectional survey. The numbers of participants differed much in the two groups. CONCLUSIONS The present study confirmed that SARS-CoV-2 vaccination contributed to reducing the prevalence of depression in Chinese adults. Moreover, vaccinated men and older adult participants had less prevalence of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Zhu
- Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Middle Road, 200040 Shanghai, China
| | - Xueqin Hu
- Changde Hospital, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University (The first people's hospital of Changde city), 818 Renmin Road, 415000, Changde City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Kai Zhu
- Jishou University, 120 Renmin South Road, 416000 Jishou City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Quan Zhou
- Changde Hospital, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University (The first people's hospital of Changde city), 818 Renmin Road, 415000, Changde City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Juan Sun
- Changde Hospital, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University (The first people's hospital of Changde city), 818 Renmin Road, 415000, Changde City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhenzhen Zhong
- Changde Hospital, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University (The first people's hospital of Changde city), 818 Renmin Road, 415000, Changde City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xiaobo Zhang
- Changde Hospital, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University (The first people's hospital of Changde city), 818 Renmin Road, 415000, Changde City, Hunan Province, China.
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Tandon A, Kumar N, Aggarwal S, Anjana Y, Sachdeva MP, Gupta V, Trilok-Kumar G. Assessing Menstrual Changes Among Young Indian Females Post-SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination. Cureus 2023; 15:e50025. [PMID: 38186546 PMCID: PMC10767692 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.50025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The rollout of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines has significantly enhanced immunity against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), leading to a reduction in the severity of illness, hospitalizations, and deaths. While various side effects of the vaccine have been reported, its impact on the menstrual cycle remains unclear. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study involving university students who had received either partial or full vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. Data was gathered through a questionnaire designed to assess the relationship between menstrual changes and the SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Results A total of 773 participants, with a mean age of 20.6 ± 1.7 years, were included in this study. The participants reported a significant increase in the irregularity of the menstrual cycle. We observed a slight increase in the length of the menstrual cycle, from 30.0 ± 4.0 days (pre-vaccination) to 30.5 ± 5.6 days (post-vaccination), which was statistically significant (p<0.001). The duration of menstruation also increased, from 4.9 ± 1.7 days (pre-vaccination) to 5.0 ± 1.7 days (post-vaccination). However, this increase in menstrual length due to vaccination was not statistically significant (p = 0.898). Notably, there was a significant increase in pain reported by the participants after receiving the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine (p = 0.004). Conclusion The SARS-CoV-2 vaccination significantly impacted the regularity of the menstrual cycle, length of the menstrual cycle, and pain during menstruation, though temporarily. Our study found no significant differences in menstrual changes or the type of vaccine administered (Covishield and Covaxin).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Naveen Kumar
- Anthropology, University of Delhi, New Delhi, IND
- Biotechnology and Research, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, IND
| | - Sunita Aggarwal
- Microbiology, Institute of Home Economics, University of Delhi, New Delhi, IND
| | - Yogita Anjana
- Food and Nutrition, Institute of Home Economics, University of Delhi, New Delhi, IND
| | | | - Vipin Gupta
- Anthropology, University of Delhi, New Delhi, IND
| | - Geeta Trilok-Kumar
- Epidemiology and Public Health, Institute of Home Economics, University of Delhi, New Delhi, IND
- Nutrition, Trivedi School of BioSciences, Ashoka University, Haryana, IND
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Mohammad A, Alshawaf E, Arefanian H, Marafie SK, Khan A, Wei DQ, Al-Mulla F, Abubaker J. Targeting SARS-CoV-2 Macrodomain-1 to Restore the Innate Immune Response Using In Silico Screening of Medicinal Compounds and Free Energy Calculation Approaches. Viruses 2023; 15:1907. [PMID: 37766313 PMCID: PMC10538035 DOI: 10.3390/v15091907] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the different drug targets of SARS-CoV-2, a multi-domain protein known as NSP3 is a critical element of the translational and replication machinery. The macrodomain-I, in particular, has been reported to have an essential role in the viral attack on the innate immune response. In this study, we explore natural medicinal compounds and identify potential inhibitors to target the SARS-CoV-2-NSP3 macrodomain-I. Computational modeling and simulation tools were utilized to investigate the structural-dynamic properties using triplicates of 100 ns MD simulations. In addition, the MM/GBSA method was used to calculate the total binding free energy of each inhibitor bound to macrodomain-I. Two significant hits were identified: 3,5,7,4'-tetrahydroxyflavanone 3'-(4-hydroxybenzoic acid) and 2-hydroxy-3-O-beta-glucopyranosyl-benzoic acid. The structural-dynamic investigation of both compounds with macrodomain-I revealed stable dynamics and compact behavior. In addition, the total binding free energy for each complex demonstrated a robust binding affinity, of ΔG -61.98 ± 0.9 kcal/mol for Compound A, while for Compound B, the ΔG was -45.125 ± 2.8 kcal/mol, indicating the inhibitory potential of these compounds. In silico bioactivity and dissociation constant (KD) determination for both complexes further validated the inhibitory potency of each compound. In conclusion, the aforementioned natural products have the potential to inhibit NSP3, to directly rescue the host immune response. The current study provides the basis for novel drug development against SARS-CoV-2 and its variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwar Mohammad
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman 15462, Kuwait; (E.A.); (S.K.M.); (J.A.)
| | - Eman Alshawaf
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman 15462, Kuwait; (E.A.); (S.K.M.); (J.A.)
| | - Hossein Arefanian
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman 15462, Kuwait;
| | - Sulaiman K. Marafie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman 15462, Kuwait; (E.A.); (S.K.M.); (J.A.)
| | - Abbas Khan
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biological Statistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; (A.K.); (D.-Q.W.)
| | - Dong-Qing Wei
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biological Statistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; (A.K.); (D.-Q.W.)
| | - Fahd Al-Mulla
- Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman 15462, Kuwait;
- Translational Research Department, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman 15462, Kuwait
| | - Jehad Abubaker
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Dasman 15462, Kuwait; (E.A.); (S.K.M.); (J.A.)
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Yap DL, Mandell C, Behar E. The Role of Perceived Risk in the Relationship Between Disgust Sensitivity and COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy. COGNITIVE THERAPY AND RESEARCH 2023; 47:1-12. [PMID: 37363746 PMCID: PMC10206364 DOI: 10.1007/s10608-023-10391-8] [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] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Background Despite widespread availability of COVID vaccines and evidence of their efficacy, vaccine hesitancy remains prevalent. Several studies have examined the relationship between disgust sensitivity and vaccine hesitancy. Although results from studies using data collected prior to the COVID pandemic indicate that higher disgust sensitivity is related to greater vaccine hesitancy, results from studies using data collected during the COVID pandemic are equivocal. The present study examined whether perceived risk of contracting COVID moderated the relationship between disgust sensitivity and vaccine hesitancy. Methods Participants (n = 152) completed self-report measures of disgust sensitivity, perceived risk of contracting COVID, and COVID vaccine hesitancy (defined as both vaccine confidence and vaccine complacency). Results Perceived risk of contracting COVID significantly moderated the relationship between disgust sensitivity and vaccine complacency, with the association strengthened at low levels of perceived risk. Perceived risk of contracting COVID also marginally moderated the relationship between disgust sensitivity and vaccine confidence, with the association strengthened at low and average levels of perceived risk. Conclusions Results suggest that individuals with elevated disgust sensitivity who also report low levels of perceived risk of contracting COVID are more likely to express vaccine hesitancy. Implications of these findings are discussed. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10608-023-10391-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L. Yap
- Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, USA
- The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, USA
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of The City University of New York, 695 Park Avenue, 611HN, New York, NY 10065 USA
| | | | - Evelyn Behar
- Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, USA
- The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, USA
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7
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Ahmadi S, Bazargan M, Elahi R, Esmaeilzadeh A. Immune evasion of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2); molecular approaches. Mol Immunol 2023; 156:10-19. [PMID: 36857806 PMCID: PMC9684099 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2022.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In December 2019, a new betacoronavirus, known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), caused an outbreak at the Wuhan seafood market in China. The disease was further named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the disease to be a pandemic, as more cases were reported globally. SARS-CoV-2, like many other viruses, employs diverse strategies to elude the host immune response and/or counter immune responses. The infection outcome mainly depends on interactions between the virus and the host immune system. Inhibiting IFN production, blocking IFN signaling, enhancing IFN resistance, and hijacking the host's translation machinery to expedite the production of viral proteins are among the main immune evasion mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2. SARS-CoV-2 also downregulates the expression of MHC-I on infected cells, which is an additional immune-evasion mechanism of this virus. Moreover, antigenic modifications to the spike (S) protein, such as deletions, insertions, and also substitutions are essential for resistance to SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies. This review assesses the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and host immune response and cellular and molecular approaches used by SARS-CoV-2 for immune evasion. Understanding the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 immune evasion is essential since it can improve the development of novel antiviral treatment options as well as vaccination methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahrzad Ahmadi
- Virology Research Center, The National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Allergy and Immunology Subspecialty Lab, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Bazargan
- Virology Research Center, The National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Allergy and Immunology Subspecialty Lab, Tehran, Iran,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Sahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Elahi
- M.D., School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Abdolreza Esmaeilzadeh
- Department of Immunology, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran; Cancer Gene Therapy Research Center (CGRC), Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran.
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8
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Joshi A, Akhtar N, Sharma NR, Kaushik V, Borkotoky S. MERS virus spike protein HTL-epitopes selection and multi-epitope vaccine design using computational biology. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:12464-12479. [PMID: 36935104 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2191137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2023]
Abstract
MERS-CoV, a zoonotic virus, poses a serious threat to public health globally. Thus, it is imperative to develop an effective vaccination strategy for protection against MERS-CoV. Immunoinformatics and computational biology tools provide a faster and more cost-effective strategy to design potential vaccine candidates. In this work, the spike proteins from different strains of MERS-CoV were selected to predict HTL-epitopes that show affinity for T-helper MHC-class II HTL allelic determinant (HLA-DRB1:0101). The antigenicity and conservation of these epitopes among the selected spike protein variants in different MERS-CoV strains were analyzed. The analysis identified five epitopes with high antigenicity: QSIFYRLNGVGITQQ, DTIKYYSIIPHSIRS, PEPITSLNTKYVAPQ, INGRLTTLNAFVAQQ and GDMYVYSAGHATGTT. Then, a multi-epitope vaccine candidate was designed using linkers and adjuvant molecules. Finally, the vaccine construct was subjected to molecular docking with TLR5 (Toll-like receptor-5). The proposed vaccine construct had strong binding energy of -32.3 kcal/mol when interacting with TLR5.Molecular dynamics simulation analysis showed that the complex of the vaccine construct and TLR5 is stable. Analysis using in silico immune simulation also showed that the prospective multi-epitope vaccine design had the potential to elicit a response within 70 days, with the immune system producing cytokines and immunoglobulins. Finally, codon adaptation and in silico cloning analysis showed that the candidate vaccine could be expressed in the Escherichia coli K12 strain. Here we also designed support vaccine construct MEV-2 by using B-cell and CD8+ CTL epitopes to generate the complete immunogenic effect. This study opens new avenues for the extension of research on MERS vaccine development.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Joshi
- Department of Biotechnology, Invertis University, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Department of Biochemistry, Kalinga University, Raipur, India
| | - Nahid Akhtar
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Neeta Raj Sharma
- Domain of Bioinformatics, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Vikas Kaushik
- Domain of Bioinformatics, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Subhomoi Borkotoky
- Department of Biotechnology, Invertis University, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Aghajani A, Khakpourian Z, Bakhthiarzadeh S, Adibipour F, Sadr M, Coleman-Fuller N, Jamaati H, Motaghinejad M. Trimetazidine May Potentially Confer Neuroprotective Effects against COVID-19-Induced Neurological Sequelae via Inhibition of Death-Associated Protein Kinase 1 (DAPK1) Signaling Pathways: An Evidenced-Based Hypothesis. TANAFFOS 2023; 22:182-186. [PMID: 38628884 PMCID: PMC11016919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Aghajani
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Khakpourian
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soodeh Bakhthiarzadeh
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Adibipour
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Makan Sadr
- Virology Research Center, NRITLD, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Natalie Coleman-Fuller
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108.
| | - Hamidreza Jamaati
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Motaghinejad
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Abebe EC, Dejenie TA. Protective roles and protective mechanisms of neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 infection and their potential clinical implications. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1055457. [PMID: 36742320 PMCID: PMC9892939 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1055457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) are central players in the humoral immunity that defends the body from SARS-CoV-2 infection by blocking viral entry into host cells and neutralizing their biological effects. Even though NAbs primarily work by neutralizing viral antigens, on some occasions, they may also combat the SARS-CoV-2 virus escaping neutralization by employing several effector mechanisms in collaboration with immune cells like natural killer (NK) cells and phagocytes. Besides their prophylactic and therapeutic roles, antibodies can be used for COVID-19 diagnosis, severity evaluation, and prognosis assessment in clinical practice. Furthermore, the measurement of NAbs could have key implications in determining individual or herd immunity against SARS-CoV-2, vaccine effectiveness, and duration of the humoral protective response, as well as aiding in the selection of suitable individuals who can donate convalescent plasma to treat infected people. Despite all these clinical applications of NAbs, using them in clinical settings can present some challenges. This review discusses the protective functions, possible protective mechanisms against SARS-CoV-2, and potential clinical applications of NAbs in COVID-19. This article also highlights the possible challenges and solutions associated with COVID-19 antibody-based prophylaxis, therapy, and vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Endeshaw Chekol Abebe
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, College of Health Sciences, Debre Tabor University, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| | - Tadesse Asmamaw Dejenie
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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D3AI-Spike: A deep learning platform for predicting binding affinity between SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor binding domain with multiple amino acid mutations and human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2. Comput Biol Med 2022; 151:106212. [PMID: 36327885 PMCID: PMC9597563 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2022.106212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The number of SARS-CoV-2 spike Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) with multiple amino acid mutations is huge due to random mutations and combinatorial explosions, making it almost impossible to experimentally determine their binding affinities to human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2). Although computational prediction is an alternative way, there is still no online platform to predict the mutation effect of RBD on the hACE2 binding affinity until now. In this study, we developed a free online platform based on deep learning models, namely D3AI-Spike, for quickly predicting binding affinity between spike RBD mutants and hACE2. The models based on CNN and CNN-RNN methods have the concordance index of around 0.8. Overall, the test results of the models are in agreement with the experimental data. To further evaluate the prediction power of D3AI-Spike, we predicted and experimentally determined the binding affinity of a VUM (variants under monitoring) variant IHU (B.1.640.2), which has fourteen amino acid substitutions, including N501Y and E484K, and 9 deletions located in the spike protein. The predicted average affinity score for wild-type RBD and IHU to hACE2 are 0.483 and 0.438, while the determined Kaff values are 5.39 ± 0.38 × 107 L/mol and 1.02 ± 0.47 × 107 L/mol, respectively, demonstrating the strong predictive power of D3AI-Spike. We think D3AI-Spike will be helpful to the viral transmission prediction for the new emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. D3AI-Spike is now available free of charge at https://www.d3pharma.com/D3Targets-2019-nCoV/D3AI-Spike/index.php.
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Velikova T. Vaccines and autoimmunity during the COVID-19 pandemic. World J Immunol 2022; 12:9-14. [DOI: 10.5411/wji.v12.i2.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
To control the pandemic, efficient vaccines must be applied to the population, including patients with autoimmune diseases. Therefore, one can expect that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines may influence the underlying autoimmune processes in these patients. Additionally, it is essential to understand whether COVID-19 vaccines would be effective, safe, and provide long-lasting immunological protection and memory. However, the currently available and approved COVID-19 vaccines turned out to be safe, effective, and reliable in patients with autoimmune inflammatory and rheumatic diseases. Furthermore, most patients said they felt safer after getting vaccinations for COVID-19 and reported enhanced overall quality of life and psychological wellbeing. In general, the COVID-19 vaccines have been highly tolerated by autoimmune patients. Such findings might comfort patients who are reluctant to use COVID-19 vaccines and assist doctors in guiding their patients into receiving vaccinations more easily and quickly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsvetelina Velikova
- Department of Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Lozenetz, Sofia 1407, Bulgaria
- Medical Faculty, Sofia University, Sofia 1407, Bulgaria
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13
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Aghajani Shahrivar A, Khakpourian Z, Majdi F, Sobhani S, Coleman-Fuller N, Gholami M, Motaghinejad M. Hypothesized neuroprotective effect of minocycline against COVID-19-induced stroke and neurological dysfunction: possible role of matrix metalloprotease signaling pathway. Biologia (Bratisl) 2022; 77:3027-3035. [PMID: 35966933 PMCID: PMC9360701 DOI: 10.1007/s11756-022-01162-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (COVID-19) is a respiratory disease that causes dysfunction in respiration. Since late 2019, this virus has infected and killed millions of people around the world and imposed many medical and therapeutic problems in the form of a pandemic. According to recent data, COVID-19 disease can increase the risk of stroke, which can be deadly or cause many neurological disorders after the disease. During the last two years, many efforts have been made to introduce new therapies for management of COVID-19-related complications, including stroke. To achieve this goal, several conventional drugs have been investigated for their possible therapeutic roles. Minocycline, a broad-spectrum, long-acting antibiotic with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, is one such conventional drug that should be considered for treating COVID-19-related stroke, as indirect evidence indicates that it exerts neuroprotective effects, can modulate stroke occurrence, and can play an effective and strategic role in management of the molecular signals caused by stroke and its destructive consequences. The matrix metalloprotease (MMP) signaling pathway is one of the main signaling pathways involved in the occurrence and exacerbation of stroke; however, its role in COVID-19-induced stroke and the possible role of minocycline in the management of this signaling pathway in patients with COVID-19 is unclear and requires further investigation. Based on this concept, we hypothesize that minocycline might act via MMP signaling as a neuroprotective agent against COVID-19-induced neurological dysfunction, particularly stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Aghajani Shahrivar
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Khakpourian
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Majdi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sarvenaz Sobhani
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Natalie Coleman-Fuller
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108 USA
| | - Mina Gholami
- College of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Motaghinejad
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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14
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Makaremi S, Asgarzadeh A, Kianfar H, Mohammadnia A, Asghariazar V, Safarzadeh E. The role of IL-1 family of cytokines and receptors in pathogenesis of COVID-19. Inflamm Res 2022; 71:923-947. [PMID: 35751653 PMCID: PMC9243884 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-022-01596-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A global pandemic has erupted as a result of the new brand coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This pandemic has been consociated with widespread mortality worldwide. The antiviral immune response is an imperative factor in confronting the recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections. Meantime, cytokines recognize as crucial components in guiding the appropriate immune pathways in the restraining and eradication of the virus. Moreover, SARS-CoV-2 can induce uncontrolled inflammatory responses characterized by hyper-inflammatory cytokine production, which causes cytokine storm and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). As excessive inflammatory responses are contributed to the severe stage of the COVID-19 disease, therefore, the pro-inflammatory cytokines are regarded as the Achilles heel during COVID-19 infection. Among these cytokines, interleukin (IL-) 1 family cytokines (IL-1, IL-18, IL-33, IL-36, IL-37, and IL-38) appear to have a strong inflammatory role in severe COVID-19. Hence, understanding the underlying inflammatory mechanism of these cytokines during infection is critical for reducing the symptoms and severity of the disease. Here, the possible mechanisms and pathways involved in inflammatory immune responses are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shima Makaremi
- School of Medicine and Allied Medical Sciences, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.,Department of Health Information Management, School of Medicine and Allied Medical Sciences, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Ali Asgarzadeh
- Students Research Committee, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.,Department of Health Information Management, School of Medicine and Allied Medical Sciences, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Hamed Kianfar
- Students Research Committee, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.,Department of Health Information Management, School of Medicine and Allied Medical Sciences, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Alireza Mohammadnia
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Medicine and Allied Medical Sciences, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Vahid Asghariazar
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Medicine and Allied Medical Sciences, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Elham Safarzadeh
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Medicine and Allied Medical Sciences, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran. .,Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
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15
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Naman ZT, Kadhim S, Al-Isawi ZJK, Butch CJ, Muhseen ZT. Computational Investigations of Traditional Chinese Medicinal Compounds against the Omicron Variant of SARS-CoV-2 to Rescue the Host Immune System. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15060741. [PMID: 35745660 PMCID: PMC9227372 DOI: 10.3390/ph15060741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrodomain-I of the NSP3 (non-structural protein 3) is responsible for immune response hijacking in the SARS-CoV-2 infection known as COVID-19. In the omicron variant (B.1.1.529), this domain harbors a new mutation, V1069I, which may increase the binding of ADPr and consequently the infection severity. This macrodomain-I, due to its significant role in infection, is deemed to be an important drug target. Hence, using structural bioinformatics and molecular simulation approaches, we performed a virtual screening of the traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) database for potential anti-viral drugs. The screening of 57,000 compounds yielded the 10 best compounds with docking scores better than the control ADPr. Among the top ten, the best three hits—TCM42798, with a docking score of −13.70 kcal/mol, TCM47007 of −13.25 kcal/mol, and TCM30675 of −12.49 kcal/mol—were chosen as the best hits. Structural dynamic features were explored including stability, compactness, flexibility, and hydrogen bonding, further demonstrating the anti-viral potential of these hits. Using the MM/GBSA approach, the total binding free energy for each complex was reported to be −69.78 kcal/mol, −50.11 kcal/mol, and −47.64 kcal/mol, respectively, which consequently reflect the stronger binding and inhibitory potential of these compounds. These agents might suppress NSP3 directly, allowing the host immune system to recuperate. The current study lays the groundwork for the development of new drugs to combat SARS-CoV-2 and its variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziad Tareq Naman
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Al-Ma’Moon University College, Aladhamia, Baghdad 72029, Iraq;
| | - Salim Kadhim
- College of Pharmacy, University of Alkafeel, Najaf 61001, Iraq;
| | - Zahraa J. K. Al-Isawi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Kufa, Najaf 61001, Iraq;
| | - Christopher J. Butch
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Artificial Functional Materials, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
- Correspondence: (C.J.B.); (Z.T.M.)
| | - Ziyad Tariq Muhseen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Hillah, Babylon 51001, Iraq
- Correspondence: (C.J.B.); (Z.T.M.)
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16
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Molecular dynamic simulations reveal anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of mitocurcumin by potentially blocking innate immune evasion proteins NSP3 and NSP16. Mol Divers 2022; 27:635-649. [PMID: 35538380 PMCID: PMC9088727 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-022-10443-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is affecting human life in an unprecedented manner and has become a global public health emergency. Identification of novel inhibitors of viral infection/replication is the utmost priority to curtail COVID-19 progression. A pre-requisite for such inhibitors is good bioavailability, non-toxicity and serum stability. Computational studies have shown that curcumin can be a candidate inhibitor of certain SARS-CoV-2 proteins; however, poor bio-availability of curcumin limits its possible therapeutic application. To circumvent this limitation, we have used mitocurcumin (MC), a triphenyl phosphonium conjugated curcumin derivative, to study the ability to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection using molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. MC is serum stable and several fold more potent as compared to curcumin. Molecular docking studies revealed that MC can bind at active site of SARS-CoV-2 ADP Ribose Phosphatase (NSP3) and SARS-CoV-2 methyltransferase (NSP10-NSP16 complex) with a high binding energy of - 10.3 kcal/mol and - 10.4 kcal/mol, respectively. MD simulation (100 ns) studies revealed that binding of MC to NSP3 and NSP16 resulted in a stable complex. MC interacted with critical residues of NSP3 macro-domain and NSP10-NSP16 complex and occupied their active sites. NSP3 is known to suppress host immune responses whereas NSP10-NSP16 complex is known to prevent immune recognition of viral mRNA. Our study suggests that MC can potentially inhibit the activity of NSP3 and NSP10-NSP16 complex, resulting in compromised viral immune evasion mechanism, and thereby accentuate the innate immune mediated clearance of viral load.
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17
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Sun J, Sarfraz M, Khawaja KF, Ozturk I, Raza MA. The Perils of the Pandemic for the Tourism and Hospitality Industries: Envisaging the Combined Effect of COVID-19 Fear and Job Insecurity on Employees’ Job Performance in Pakistan. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2022; 15:1325-1346. [PMID: 35642192 PMCID: PMC9148606 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s365972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aims to improve employees’ job performance during COVID-19 pandemic circumstances and demonstrates the impact of COVID-19 fear on hospitality employees’ job performance under the mediating role of job insecurity changes and job loss insecurity. Methods The study adopts a quantitative approach, and data were accumulated through a structured questionnaire. In total, 509 valid questionnaires were received from employees working in Pakistan’s hospitality sector. A structural equation model using Smart-PLS software was used to analyze the collected data from the respondents. Results The results have identified that COVID-19 fear has a positive and significant influence on job insecurity changes, job loss insecurity, and a negative and significant relationship with job performance. The mediating relationship of job insecurity changes and job loss insecurity negatively significantly influence job performance. Additionally, results indicate a significant relationship between the moderating effect of the COVID-19 vaccines and job insecurity changes, job loss insecurity, and job performance. Conclusion The study revealed that employees who perceived their jobs to be insecure during the COVID-19 pandemic tried to cope with the situation, feel healthy, and perform well in their job after getting vaccinated. The study’s findings recommend modifying the employees’ working pattern for organizations. This study enhances the existing literature on the COVID-19 crisis in Pakistan’s hospitality industry. In particular, this study is a novel addition to academia that highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the work performance of front desk employees in the hotel and tourism industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianmin Sun
- School of Management, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Muddassar Sarfraz
- School of Management, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Commerce & Business, Government College University Faisalabad, Layyah Campus, Layyah, Punjab, 31200, Pakistan
- Correspondence: Muddassar Sarfraz, Email
| | - Kausar Fiaz Khawaja
- Faculty of Management Sciences, International Islamic University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Ilknur Ozturk
- Faculty of Economics, Administrative and Social Sciences, Nisantasi University, Istanbul, 34485, Turkey
| | - Muhammad Ali Raza
- Department of Business Administration, National College of Business Administration and Economics, Multan Campus, Multan, 60000, Pakistan
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18
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Nanoparticle and virus-like particle vaccine approaches against SARS-CoV-2. J Microbiol 2022; 60:335-346. [PMID: 35089583 PMCID: PMC8795728 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-022-1608-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The global spread of coronavirus disease 2019 caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has provoked an urgent need for prophylactic measures. Several innovative vaccine platforms have been introduced and billions of vaccine doses have been administered worldwide. To enable the creation of safer and more effective vaccines, additional platforms are under development. These include the use of nanoparticle (NP) and virus-like particle (VLP) technology. NP vaccines utilize self-assembling scaffold structures designed to load the entire spike protein or receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 in a trimeric configuration. In contrast, VLP vaccines are genetically modified recombinant viruses that are considered safe, as they are generally replication-defective. Furthermore, VLPs have indigenous immunogenic potential due to their microbial origin. Importantly, NP and VLP vaccines have shown stronger immunogenicity with greater protection by mimicking the physicochemical characteristics of SARS-CoV-2. The study of NP- and VLP-based coronavirus vaccines will help ensure the development of rapid-response technology against SARS-CoV-2 variants and future coronavirus pandemics.
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19
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Yang YL, Kim J, Jeong Y, Jang YS. Intranasal immunization with a Middle East respiratory syndrome-coronavirus antigen conjugated to the M-cell targeting ligand Co4B enhances antigen-specific mucosal and systemic immunity and protects against infection. Vaccine 2022; 40:714-725. [PMID: 34991928 PMCID: PMC8716170 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.12.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is a threat to public health worldwide. A vaccine against the causative agent of MERS, MERS-coronavirus (MERS-CoV), is urgently needed. We previously identified a peptide ligand, Co4B, which can enhance antigen (Ag) delivery to the nasal mucosa and promote Ag-specific mucosal and systemic immune responses following intranasal immunization. MERS-CoV infects via the respiratory route; thus, we conjugated the Co4B ligand to the MERS-CoV spike protein receptor-binding domain (S-RBD), and used this to intranasally immunize C57BL/6 and human dipeptidyl peptidase 4-transgenic (hDPP4-Tg) mice. Ag-specific mucosal immunoglobulin (Ig) A and systemic IgG, together with virus-neutralizing activities, were highly induced in mice immunized with Co4B-conjugated S-RBD (S-RBD-Co4B) compared to those immunized with unconjugated S-RBD. Ag-specific T cell-mediated immunity was also induced in the spleen and lungs of mice intranasally immunized with S-RBD-Co4B. Intranasal immunization of hDPP4-Tg mice with S-RBD-Co4B reduced immune cell infiltration into the tissues of virus-challenged mice. Finally, S-RBD-Co4B-immunized mice exhibited were better protected against infection, more likely to survive, and exhibited less body weight loss. Collectively, our results suggest that S-RBD-Co4B could be used as an intranasal vaccine candidate against MERS-CoV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Lin Yang
- Department of Bioactive Material Sciences and Research Center of Bioactive Materials, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea
| | - Ju Kim
- Department of Molecular Biology and the Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea
| | - Yongsu Jeong
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 17104, Korea
| | - Yong-Suk Jang
- Department of Bioactive Material Sciences and Research Center of Bioactive Materials, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea,Department of Molecular Biology and the Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea,Corresponding author at: Department of Molecular Biology, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea
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20
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Zepeda-Cervantes J, Martínez-Flores D, Ramírez-Jarquín JO, Tecalco-Cruz ÁC, Alavez-Pérez NS, Vaca L, Sarmiento-Silva RE. Implications of the Immune Polymorphisms of the Host and the Genetic Variability of SARS-CoV-2 in the Development of COVID-19. Viruses 2022; 14:94. [PMID: 35062298 PMCID: PMC8778858 DOI: 10.3390/v14010094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the current pandemic affecting almost all countries in the world. SARS-CoV-2 is the agent responsible for coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), which has claimed millions of lives around the world. In most patients, SARS-CoV-2 infection does not cause clinical signs. However, some infected people develop symptoms, which include loss of smell or taste, fever, dry cough, headache, severe pneumonia, as well as coagulation disorders. The aim of this work is to report genetic factors of SARS-CoV-2 and host-associated to severe COVID-19, placing special emphasis on the viral entry and molecules of the immune system involved with viral infection. Besides this, we analyze SARS-CoV-2 variants and their structural characteristics related to the binding to polymorphic angiotensin-converting enzyme type 2 (ACE2). Additionally, we also review other polymorphisms as well as some epigenetic factors involved in the immunopathogenesis of COVID-19. These factors and viral variability could explain the increment of infection rate and/or in the development of severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Zepeda-Cervantes
- Departamento de Microbiología e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Daniel Martínez-Flores
- Departamento de Biología Celular y del Desarrollo, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Josué Orlando Ramírez-Jarquín
- Departamento de Neuropatología Molecular, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Ángeles C. Tecalco-Cruz
- Posgrado en Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Autónoma de la Ciudad de México (UACM), Mexico City 06720, Mexico;
| | - Noé Santiago Alavez-Pérez
- Escuela Nacional de Medicina y Homeopatía, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 07340, Mexico;
| | - Luis Vaca
- Departamento de Biología Celular y del Desarrollo, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Rosa Elena Sarmiento-Silva
- Departamento de Microbiología e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
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21
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Rodríguez Quejada L, Toro Wills MF, Martínez-Ávila MC, Patiño-Aldana AF. Menstrual cycle disturbances after COVID-19 vaccination. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 18:17455057221109375. [PMID: 35796571 PMCID: PMC9295013 DOI: 10.1177/17455057221109375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION After COVID-19 vaccination, women of reproductive age reported changes in their menstrual cycle. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective study was carried out after a survey on social networks that included women aged 18-41 years with normal cycles according to International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics and who were vaccinated (complete schedule for two doses, except J&J/Janssen or incomplete with a single dose). Women with following conditions were excluded: pregnant or lactating women; history of diseases that cause menstrual irregularities or early menopause: anorexia, bulimia, polycystic ovary syndrome, hypothyroidism, obesity, or low weight; hysterectomized or oophorectomized patients; and high performance athletes. RESULTS Overall, 950 women completed the survey between July and September 2021. In total, 408 women met the inclusion criteria, and 184 reported the following characteristics: frequency (normal 43.47%, infrequent 25%, and frequent 31.53%), regularity (regular 51.08%, irregular 42.93%, and absent/amenorrhea 5.97%), duration (normal 65.21%, prolonged 26.08%, absent/amenorrhea 8.69%), and volume (heavy 41.84%, light 20.65%, and absent/amenorrhea 6.52%). CONCLUSIONS SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination can influence the menstrual cycle and cause alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Rodríguez Quejada
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - María Fernanda Toro Wills
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Andrés Felipe Patiño-Aldana
- Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
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22
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Kim J, Yang YL, Jeong Y, Jang YS. Application of Antimicrobial Peptide LL-37 as an Adjuvant for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus Antigen Induces an Efficient Protective Immune Response Against Viral Infection After Intranasal Immunization. Immune Netw 2022; 22:e41. [DOI: 10.4110/in.2022.22.e41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ju Kim
- Department of Molecular Biology and the Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea
| | - Ye Lin Yang
- Department of Bioactive Material Sciences and Research Center of Bioactive Materials, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea
| | - Yongsu Jeong
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 17104, Korea
| | - Yong-Suk Jang
- Department of Molecular Biology and the Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea
- Department of Bioactive Material Sciences and Research Center of Bioactive Materials, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea
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23
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Zhao W, Xu G, Yu Z, Li J, Liu J. Identification of nut protein-derived peptides against SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and main protease. Comput Biol Med 2021; 138:104937. [PMID: 34655899 PMCID: PMC8503973 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2021.104937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Recently, an outbreak of a novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has reached pandemic proportions, and there is an urgent need to develop nutritional supplements to assist with prevention, treatment, and recovery. In this study, SARS-CoV-2 inhibitory peptides were screened from nut proteins in silico, and binding affinities of the peptides to the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) and the spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) were evaluated. Peptide NDQF from peanuts and peptide ASGCGDC from almonds were found to have a strong binding affinity for both targets of the coronavirus. The binding sites of the NDQF and ASGCGDC peptides are highly consistent with the Mpro inhibitor N3. In addition, NDQF and ASGCGDC exhibited an effective binding affinity for amino acid residues Tyr453 and Gln493 of the spike RBD. Molecular dynamics simulation further confirmed that the NDQF and ASGCGDC peptides could bind stably to the SARS-COV-2 Mpro and spike RBD. In summary, nut protein may be helpful as nutritional supplements for COVID-19 patients, and the screened peptides could be considered a potential lead compound for designing entry inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhu Zhao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Bohai University, Jinzhou, 121013, PR China
| | - Ge Xu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Bohai University, Jinzhou, 121013, PR China
| | - Zhipeng Yu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Bohai University, Jinzhou, 121013, PR China.
| | - Jianrong Li
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Bohai University, Jinzhou, 121013, PR China
| | - Jingbo Liu
- Lab of Nutrition and Functional Food, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, PR China
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24
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Deng H, Yan X, Yuan L. Human genetic basis of coronavirus disease 2019. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:344. [PMID: 34545062 PMCID: PMC8450706 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00736-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by a novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has resulted in considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide. COVID-19 incidence, severity, and mortality rates differ greatly between populations, genders, ABO blood groups, human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genotypes, ethnic groups, and geographic backgrounds. This highly heterogeneous SARS-CoV-2 infection is multifactorial. Host genetic factors such as variants in the angiotensin-converting enzyme gene (ACE), the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 gene (ACE2), the transmembrane protease serine 2 gene (TMPRSS2), along with HLA genotype, and ABO blood group help to explain individual susceptibility, severity, and outcomes of COVID-19. This review is focused on COVID-19 clinical and viral characteristics, pathogenesis, and genetic findings, with particular attention on genetic diversity and variants. The human genetic basis could provide scientific bases for disease prediction and targeted therapy to address the COVID-19 scourge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Deng
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Health Management Center, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China ,grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Center for Experimental Medicine, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China ,grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Disease Genome Research Center, Central South University, Changsha, China ,grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Department of Neurology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xue Yan
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Health Management Center, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China ,grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Center for Experimental Medicine, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China ,grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Disease Genome Research Center, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lamei Yuan
- grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Health Management Center, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China ,grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Center for Experimental Medicine, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China ,grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Disease Genome Research Center, Central South University, Changsha, China ,grid.216417.70000 0001 0379 7164Department of Neurology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Schmidt M, Arshad M, Bernhart SH, Hakobyan S, Arakelyan A, Loeffler-Wirth H, Binder H. The Evolving Faces of the SARS-CoV-2 Genome. Viruses 2021; 13:1764. [PMID: 34578345 PMCID: PMC8472651 DOI: 10.3390/v13091764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Surveillance of the evolving SARS-CoV-2 genome combined with epidemiological monitoring and emerging vaccination became paramount tasks to control the pandemic which is rapidly changing in time and space. Genomic surveillance must combine generation and sharing sequence data with appropriate bioinformatics monitoring and analysis methods. We applied molecular portrayal using self-organizing maps machine learning (SOM portrayal) to characterize the diversity of the virus genomes, their mutual relatedness and development since the beginning of the pandemic. The genetic landscape obtained visualizes the relevant mutations in a lineage-specific fashion and provides developmental paths in genetic state space from early lineages towards the variants of concern alpha, beta, gamma and delta. The different genes of the virus have specific footprints in the landscape reflecting their biological impact. SOM portrayal provides a novel option for 'bioinformatics surveillance' of the pandemic, with strong odds regarding visualization, intuitive perception and 'personalization' of the mutational patterns of the virus genomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Schmidt
- IZBI, Interdisciplinary Centre for Bioinformatics, Universität Leipzig, Härtelstr. 16–18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany; (M.A.); (S.H.B.); (H.L.-W.)
| | - Mamoona Arshad
- IZBI, Interdisciplinary Centre for Bioinformatics, Universität Leipzig, Härtelstr. 16–18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany; (M.A.); (S.H.B.); (H.L.-W.)
| | - Stephan H. Bernhart
- IZBI, Interdisciplinary Centre for Bioinformatics, Universität Leipzig, Härtelstr. 16–18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany; (M.A.); (S.H.B.); (H.L.-W.)
| | - Siras Hakobyan
- Armenian Bioinformatics Institute (ABI), 7 Hasratyan Str., Yerevan 0014, Armenia; (S.H.); (A.A.)
- Research Group of Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Biology of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia, 7 Hasratyan Str., Yerevan 0014, Armenia
| | - Arsen Arakelyan
- Armenian Bioinformatics Institute (ABI), 7 Hasratyan Str., Yerevan 0014, Armenia; (S.H.); (A.A.)
- Research Group of Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Biology of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia, 7 Hasratyan Str., Yerevan 0014, Armenia
| | - Henry Loeffler-Wirth
- IZBI, Interdisciplinary Centre for Bioinformatics, Universität Leipzig, Härtelstr. 16–18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany; (M.A.); (S.H.B.); (H.L.-W.)
| | - Hans Binder
- IZBI, Interdisciplinary Centre for Bioinformatics, Universität Leipzig, Härtelstr. 16–18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany; (M.A.); (S.H.B.); (H.L.-W.)
- Armenian Bioinformatics Institute (ABI), 7 Hasratyan Str., Yerevan 0014, Armenia; (S.H.); (A.A.)
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26
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ONAY A, ERTAŞ A, SÜZERER V, YENER İ, YILMAZ MA, AYAZ-TİLKAT E, EKİNCİ R, BOZHAN N, İRTEGÜN-KANDEMİR S. Cannabinoids for SARS-CoV-2 and is there evidence of their therapeutic efficacy? Turk J Biol 2021; 45:570-587. [PMID: 34803455 PMCID: PMC8573844 DOI: 10.3906/biy-2105-73] [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: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
To combat the coronaviruses and their novel variants, therapeutic drugs and the development of vaccines that are to be effective throughout human life are urgently needed. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) acts as a modulator in the activation of the microcirculation, immune system, and autonomic nervous system, along with controlling pharmacological functions such as emotional responses, homeostasis, motor functions, cognition, and motivation. The ECS contains endogenous cannabinoids, cannabinoid receptor (CBRs), and enzymes that regulate their biosynthesis, transport, and degradation. Moreover, phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids that mimic the action of endocannabinoids also play an essential role in the modulation of the ECS. Cannabinoids, the main constituents of cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.), are therapeutic compounds that have received international attention in the health field due to their therapeutic properties. Recently, they have been tested for the treatment of COVID-19 due to their antiviral properties. Indeed, cannabinoid-type compounds, and in particular cannabidiol (CBD), isolated from glandular trichomes found in the calyx of cannabis flowers with reported antiviral properties is hypothesized to be a therapeutic option in the ministration of SARS-CoV-2 consorted with COVID-19 disease. The relevant articles were determined from the database search published mainly in Web of Science, Google scholar, PubMed, Crossref, and ClinicalTrials.gov database during the pandemic period. The articles were evaluated for the therapeutic potentials, mechanisms of action of cannabinoids, the roles of the ECS in the immune system, impact of cannabinoids in SARS-CoV-2 septic, especially if they address the application of cannabinoids as drugs for the curability and management of SARS-CoV-2 and its novel variants. Although the evidence needed to be considered using cannabinoids in the control and treatment of viral diseases is currently in its infancy, they already offer an opportunity for clinicians due to their effects in relieving pain, improving appetite, and improving childhood epilepsy, especially in cancer and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV/AIDS) patients. In addition to these, the most recent scientific evidence emphasizes their use in the treatment of the coronavirus infected patients. In brief, all preclinic and clinic studies that have been reported show that, through the cannabinoid system, cannabinoids, particularly CBD, have many mechanisms that are effective in the treatment of patients infected by SARS-CoV-2. Thus, more extensive studies are necessary in this area to fully identify the effects of cannabinoids on SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet ONAY
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
| | - Abdulselam ERTAŞ
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
| | - Veysel SÜZERER
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Vocational School of Health, Bingöl University, BingölTurkey
| | - İsmail YENER
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
| | | | - Emine AYAZ-TİLKAT
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Literature, Batman University, BatmanTurkey
| | - Remzi EKİNCİ
- Department of Field Crops, Faculty of Agriculture, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
| | - Nesrin BOZHAN
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Dicle University, DiyarbakırTurkey
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27
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Multifunctional inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 by MM/PBSA, essential dynamics, and molecular dynamic investigations. J Mol Graph Model 2021; 107:107969. [PMID: 34237666 PMCID: PMC8220440 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmgm.2021.107969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic demands a novel approach to combat and identify potential therapeutic targets. The SARS-CoV-2 infection causes a hyperimmune response followed by a spectrum of diseases. Limonoids are a class of triterpenoids known to prevent the release of IL-6, IL-15, IL-1α, IL-1β via TNF and are also known to modulate PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β, JNK1/2, MAPKp38, ERK1/2, and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways and could help to avoid viral infection, persistence, and pathogenesis. The present study employs a computational approach of virtual screening and molecular dynamic (MD) simulations of such compounds against RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), Main protease (Mpro), and Papain-like protease (PLpro) of SARS-CoV-2. MD simulation, Molecular Mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann Surface Area (MM/PBSA), and Essential dynamics revealed that the macromolecule-ligand complexes are stable with very low free energy of binding. Such compounds that could modulate both host responses and inhibit viral machinery could be beneficial in effectively controlling the global pandemic.
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28
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COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and related fears and anxiety. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 97:107724. [PMID: 33951558 PMCID: PMC8078903 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background Vaccination is crucial to limit the pandemic spread of SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19. Therefore, besides the development and supply of vaccines, it is essential that sufficient individuals are willing to get vaccinated, but concerning proportions of populations worldwide show vaccine hesitancy. This makes it important to determine factors that are associated with vaccine acceptance. Methods 1779 adults of a non-probability convenience sample in Germany were assessed with an online survey in a cross-sectional survey period from 1st to 11th January 2021 (a few days after the beginning of vaccinations in Germany). Results 64.5% of the sample stated that they absolutely would accept the vaccination, 13.8% would rather accept it, 10.4% were undecided, and 5.2% would rather not and 6.0% absolutely not get vaccinated. COVID-19-related anxiety, and fears of infection and health-related consequences correlated significantly positively with vaccine acceptance (all p < .001). In contrast, social (p = .006) and economic fears (p < .001) showed significant negative associations with vaccination willingness. The broader constructs of unspecific anxiety and depressive symptoms were not significantly associated with vaccine acceptance. Vaccine acceptance differed between users/non-users of social media and official websites to gain information about the pandemic (p < .001). Conclusions COVID-19-related anxiety and health-related fears were associated with higher vaccine acceptance, whereas the fear of social and economic consequences showed the contrary direction. These findings highlight the need to differentiate between several types of fears and anxiety to predict their influence on vaccine acceptance, and provide important information and an essential base for future studies and interventions.
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