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Zeng Y, Du Z, Shao C, Zhao M. Comprehensive insights into COVID-19 vaccine-associated multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (MEWDS): A systematic analysis of reported cases. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2350812. [PMID: 38752704 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2350812] [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: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Considering the widespread use of COVID-19 vaccines as a preventive measure against the spread of the virus, it's necessary to direct attention to the adverse effects associated with vaccines in a limited group of populations. Multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (MEWDS) following COVID-19 vaccination is a rare adverse reaction associated with COVID-19 vaccines. In this systematic review, we collected 19 articles with 27 patients up to November 1, 2023, summarizing the basic information, clinical manifestations, examinations, treatments, and recoveries of the 27 patients. The 27 enrolled patients (6 males, 21 females) had a median age of 34.1 years (15-71 years old) and were mainly from 5 regions: Asia (8), the Mediterranean region (8), North America (7), Oceania (3) and Brazil (1). Symptoms occurred post-first dose in 9 patients, post-second dose in 14 (1 with symptoms after both), post-third dose in 1, and both post-second and booster doses in 1, while details on 2 cases were not disclosed. Treatments included tapered oral steroids (6), topical steroids (3), tapered prednisone with antiviral drugs and vitamins (1), and valacyclovir and acetazolamide (1), while 16 received no treatment. All patients experienced symptom improvement, and nearly all patients ultimately recovered. Moreover, we summarized possible hypotheses concerning the mechanism of COVID-19 vaccine-associated MEWDS. The findings provide insights into the clinical aspects of COVID-19 vaccine-associated MEWDS. More attention should be given to patients with vaccine-associated MEWDS, and necessary treatment should be provided to patients experiencing a substantial decline in visual acuity to improve their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ziye Du
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chuhan Shao
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Mingyi Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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2
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Coutant F, Touret F, Pin JJ, Alonzo M, Baronti C, Munier S, Attia M, de Lamballerie X, Ferry T, Miossec P. Neutralizing and enhancing monoclonal antibodies in SARS-CoV-2 convalescent patients: lessons from early variant infection and impact on shaping emerging variants. Emerg Microbes Infect 2024; 13:2307510. [PMID: 38240255 PMCID: PMC10829827 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2024.2307510] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Serological studies of COVID-19 convalescent patients have identified polyclonal lineage-specific and cross-reactive antibodies (Abs), with varying effector functions against virus variants. Individual specificities of anti-SARS-CoV-2 Abs and their impact on infectivity by other variants have been little investigated to date. Here, we dissected at a monoclonal level neutralizing and enhancing Abs elicited by early variants and how they affect infectivity of emerging variants. B cells from 13 convalescent patients originally infected by D614G or Alpha variants were immortalized to isolate 445 naturally-produced anti-SARS-CoV-2 Abs. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were tested for their abilities to impact the cytopathic effect of D614G, Delta, and Omicron (BA.1) variants. Ninety-eight exhibited robust neutralization against at least one of the three variant types, while 309 showed minimal or no impact on infectivity. Thirty-eight mAbs enhanced infectivity of SARS-CoV-2. Infection with D614G/Alpha variants generated variant-specific (65 neutralizing Abs, 35 enhancing Abs) and cross-reactive (18 neutralizing Abs, 3 enhancing Abs) mAbs. Interestingly, among the neutralizing mAbs with cross-reactivity restricted to two of the three variants tested, none demonstrated specific neutralization of the Delta and Omicron variants. In contrast, cross-reactive mAbs enhancing infectivity (n = 3) were found exclusively specific to Delta and Omicron variants. Notably, two mAbs that amplified in vitro the cytopathic effect of the Delta variant also exhibited neutralization against Omicron. These findings shed light on functional diversity of cross-reactive Abs generated during SARS-CoV-2 infection and illustrate how the balance between neutralizing and enhancing Abs facilitate variant emergence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Coutant
- Immunogenomics and Inflammation Research Team, University of Lyon, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Lyon, France
- Immunology Department, Lyon-Sud Hospital, Hospices Civils of Lyon, Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - Franck Touret
- Unité des Virus Émergents (UVE: Aix-Marseille University - IRD 190 - Inserm 1207), Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Jacques Pin
- Eurobio Scientific/Dendritics – Edouard Herriot Hospital, Lyon, France
| | - Marina Alonzo
- Immunogenomics and Inflammation Research Team, University of Lyon, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Lyon, France
| | - Cécile Baronti
- Unité des Virus Émergents (UVE: Aix-Marseille University - IRD 190 - Inserm 1207), Marseille, France
| | - Sandie Munier
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR3569, Molecular Genetics of RNA Viruses Unit, Paris, France
| | - Mikaël Attia
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR3569, Molecular Genetics of RNA Viruses Unit, Paris, France
| | - Xavier de Lamballerie
- Unité des Virus Émergents (UVE: Aix-Marseille University - IRD 190 - Inserm 1207), Marseille, France
| | - Tristan Ferry
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Hospices Civils of Lyon - Croix-Rousse Hospital, Lyon, France
- CIRI, Inserm U1111, CNRS, UMR5308, ENS Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon I, Lyon, France
| | - Pierre Miossec
- Immunogenomics and Inflammation Research Team, University of Lyon, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Lyon, France
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Lyon, France
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3
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Sartoris S, Del Pozzo G. Exploring the HLA complex in autoimmunity: From the risk haplotypes to the modulation of expression. Clin Immunol 2024; 265:110266. [PMID: 38851519 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2024.110266] [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: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
The genes mapping at the HLA region show high density, strong linkage disequilibrium and high polymorphism, which affect the association of HLA class I and class II genes with autoimmunity. We focused on the HLA haplotypes, genomic structures consisting of an array of specific alleles showing some degrees of genetic association with different autoimmune disorders. GWASs in many pathologies have identified variants in either the coding loci or the flanking regulatory regions, both in linkage disequilibrium in haplotypes, that are frequently associated with increased risk and may influence gene expression. We discuss the relevance of the HLA gene expression because the level of surface heterodimers determines the number of complexes presenting self-antigen and, thus, the strength of pathogenic autoreactive T cells immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Sartoris
- Dept. of Medicine, Section of Immunology University of Verona School of Medicine, Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanna Del Pozzo
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso" National Research Council (CNR), Naples, Italy.
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4
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Baig AM, Rosko S, Jaeger B, Gerlach J, Rausch H. Unraveling the enigma of long COVID: novel aspects in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment protocols. Inflammopharmacology 2024:10.1007/s10787-024-01483-2. [PMID: 38771409 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-024-01483-2] [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: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Long COVID, now unmistakably identified as a syndromic entity encompassing a complex spectrum of symptoms, demands immediate resolution of its elusive pathogenic underpinnings. The intricate interplay of diverse factors presents a complex puzzle, difficult to resolve, and thus poses a substantial challenge. As instances of long COVID manifest by repeated infections of SARS-CoV-2 and genetic predisposition, a detailed understanding in this regard is needed. This endeavor is a comprehensive exploration and analysis of the cascading pathogenetic events driven by viral persistence and replication. Beyond its morbidity, long COVID, more disabling than fatal, exacts one of the most substantial tolls on public health in contemporary times, with the potential to cripple national economies. The paper introduces a unified theory of long COVID, detailing a novel pathophysiological framework that interlinks persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection, autoimmunity, and systemic vascular pathology. We posit a model where viral reservoirs, immune dysregulation, and genetic predispositions converge to perpetuate disease. It challenges prevailing hypotheses with new evidence, suggesting innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. The paper aims to shift the paradigm in long COVID research by providing an integrative perspective that encapsulates the multifaceted nature of the condition. We explain the immunological mechanisms, hypercoagulability states, and viral reservoirs in the skull that feed NeuroCOVID in patients with long COVID. Also, this study hints toward a patient approach and how to prioritize treatment sequences in long COVID patients in hospitals and clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandy Rosko
- Clinicum St. George, Rosenheimer Str. 6-8, Bad Aibling, Germany
| | - Beate Jaeger
- Clinicum St. George, Rosenheimer Str. 6-8, Bad Aibling, Germany
| | - Joachim Gerlach
- Clinicum St. George, Rosenheimer Str. 6-8, Bad Aibling, Germany
| | - Hans Rausch
- Clinicum St. George, Rosenheimer Str. 6-8, Bad Aibling, Germany
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5
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Zhang Z, Zhang X, Dai M, Wu Y, You Y. Case report: A case of anti-glycine receptor encephalomyelitis triggered by post-transplant or COVID-19 infection? Front Neurol 2024; 15:1356691. [PMID: 38699057 PMCID: PMC11063230 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1356691] [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: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Even though long-term immunosuppressant drugs (ISD) are employed to inhibit immune system activity, enhancing graft functionality and patient survival in solid organ transplantation (SOT), these transplants often lead to immune complications, with post-transplant autoimmune diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) being uncommon. Here, we detail the case of a 66-year-old woman who underwent a renal transplantation 8 months prior, who was admitted with subacute onset of encephalomyelitis, accompanied by headaches, paraplegia, weakness, vomiting, and abdominal pain, with a positive COVID-19 nasopharyngeal swab test 1 month before admission. MRI scans of the brain revealed multiple lesions in the white matter of the bilateral deep frontal lobe, the left temporal lobe and insula lobe. Additionally, there were multiple short segment lesions in the spinal cord and subdural hematoma at T1, T6-T7 posterior. The serum revealed a positive result for GlyR-IgG. Following the administration of corticosteroid and intravenous immunoglobulin, there was a significant improvement in the patient's symptoms within 2 weeks, and her brain MRI showed a reduction in the lesion. Despite its rarity, we believe this to be the inaugural documentation of anti-GlyR encephalomyelitis occurring during renal transplantation. A full panel of antibodies for autoimmune encephalomyelitis is the key leading to the diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengxue Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingming Dai
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Yingying Wu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Yong You
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- International Center for Aging and Cancer (ICAC), Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- Key Laboratory of Brain Science Research & Transformation in Tropical Environment of Hainan Province, Haikou, China
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6
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Vasilevska V, Guest PC, Szardenings M, Benros ME, Steiner J. Possible temporal relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis: a meta-analysis. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:139. [PMID: 38459000 PMCID: PMC10923949 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02831-0] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The global impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection has raised concerns about secondary diseases beyond acute illness. This review explores the significance and potential underlying mechanisms of how SARS-CoV-2 infection might elicit an immune response targeting N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, and its implications for autoimmune-driven neuropsychiatric manifestations. We identified 19 published case reports of NMDA receptor encephalitis associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination by a systematic literature search. The significance of these reports was limited since it is not clear if a coincidental or causal relationship exists between SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination and manifestation of NMDA receptor encephalitis. The included studies were hampered by difficulties in establishing if these patients had pre-existing NMDA receptor antibodies which entered the brain by infection- or vaccination-associated transient blood-brain barrier leakage. In addition, four cases had comorbid ovarian teratoma, which is a known trigger for development of NMDA receptor encephalitis. Considering that billions of people have contracted COVID-19 or have been vaccinated against this virus, the publication of only 19 case reports with a possible link to NMDA receptor encephalitis, indicates that it is rare. In conclusion, these findings do not support the case that SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination led to an increase of existing or de novo encephalitis mediated by an autoimmune response targeting NMDA receptor function. Nevertheless, this work underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance in monitoring viral outbreaks and their potential impact on the central nervous system through basic, epidemiological and translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Vasilevska
- Department of Psychiatry, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Laboratory of Translational Psychiatry, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Paul C Guest
- Department of Psychiatry, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Laboratory of Translational Psychiatry, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Laboratory of Neuroproteomics, Department of Biochemistry and Tissue Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Michael Szardenings
- Ligand Development Unit, Fraunhofer Institute of Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Michael E Benros
- Copenhagen Research Centre for Mental Health, Mental Health Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Johann Steiner
- Department of Psychiatry, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.
- Laboratory of Translational Psychiatry, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg, Germany.
- Center for Health and Medical Prevention (CHaMP), Magdeburg, Germany.
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Partner Site Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.
- Center for Intervention and Research on Adaptive and Maladaptive Brain Circuits Underlying Mental Health (C-I-R-C), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.
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7
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Vogrig A, Tartaglia S, Dentoni M, Fabris M, Bax F, Belluzzo M, Verriello L, Bagatto D, Gastaldi M, Tocco P, Zoccarato M, Zuliani L, Pilotto A, Padovani A, Villagrán-García M, Davy V, Gigli GL, Honnorat J, Valente M. Central nervous system immune-related disorders after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination: a multicenter study. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1344184. [PMID: 38375477 PMCID: PMC10876052 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1344184] [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: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 vaccines have been approved due to their excellent safety and efficacy data and their use has also permitted to reduce neurological complications of SARS-CoV-2. However, clinical trials were underpowered to detect rare adverse events. Herein, the aim was to characterize the clinical spectrum and immunological features of central nervous system (CNS) immune-related events following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Methods Multicenter, retrospective, cohort study (December 1, 2020-April 30, 2022). Inclusion criteria were (1) de novo CNS disorders developing after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination (probable causal relationship as per 2021 Butler criteria) (2); evidence for an immune-mediated etiology, as per (i) 2016 Graus criteria for autoimmune encephalitis (AE); (ii) 2015 Wingerchuk criteria for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders; (iii) criteria for myelitis. Results Nineteen patients were included from 7 tertiary referral hospitals across Italy and France (one of them being a national referral center for AE), over almost 1 year and half of vaccination campaign. Vaccines administered were mRNA-based (63%) and adenovirus-vectored (37%). The median time between vaccination and symptoms onset was 14 days (range: 2-41 days). CSF was inflammatory in 74%; autoantibodies were detected in 5%. CSF cytokine analysis (n=3) revealed increased CXCL-10 (IP-10), suggesting robust T-cell activation. The patients had AE (58%), myelitis (21%), acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) (16%), and brainstem encephalitis (5%). All patients but 2 received immunomodulatory treatment. At last follow-up (median 130 days; range: 32-540), only one patient (5%) had a mRS>2. Conclusion CNS adverse events of COVID-19 vaccination appear to be very rare even at reference centers and consist mostly of antibody-negative AE, myelitis, and ADEM developing approximately 2 weeks after vaccination. Most patients improve following immunomodulatory treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Vogrig
- Department of Medicine (DMED), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Clinical Neurology, Department of Head-Neck and Neuroscience, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU FC), Udine, Italy
| | - Sara Tartaglia
- Department of Medicine (DMED), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Clinical Neurology, Department of Head-Neck and Neuroscience, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU FC), Udine, Italy
| | - Marta Dentoni
- Department of Medicine (DMED), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Clinical Neurology, Department of Head-Neck and Neuroscience, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU FC), Udine, Italy
| | - Martina Fabris
- Institute of Clinical Pathology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU FC), Udine, Italy
| | - Francesco Bax
- Clinical Neurology, Department of Head-Neck and Neuroscience, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU FC), Udine, Italy
| | - Marco Belluzzo
- Neurology Unit, Department of Head-Neck and Neuroscience, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU FC), Udine, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Verriello
- Neurology Unit, Department of Head-Neck and Neuroscience, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU FC), Udine, Italy
| | - Daniele Bagatto
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Unit of Neuroradiology, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU FC), Udine, Italy
| | - Matteo Gastaldi
- Neuroimmunology Laboratory, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Tocco
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, “Spirito Santo” Hospital of Pescara, Pescara, Italy
| | - Marco Zoccarato
- UOC Neurologia O.S.A. - Azienda Ospedale Università di Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Luigi Zuliani
- Neurology Unit, AULSS8 Berica, San Bortolo Hospital, Vicenza, Italy
| | - Andrea Pilotto
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Neurology Unit, Department of Continuity of Care and Frailty, ASST Spedali Civili Brescia University Hospital, Brescia, Italy
- Laboratory of Digital Neurology and Biosensors, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Padovani
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Neurology Unit, Department of Continuity of Care and Frailty, ASST Spedali Civili Brescia University Hospital, Brescia, Italy
- Laboratory of Digital Neurology and Biosensors, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Macarena Villagrán-García
- French Reference Centre for Paraneoplastic Neurological Syndromes and Autoimmune Encephalitis, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Neurologique, Bron, France
- MeLiS - UCBL-CNRS UMR 5284 - INSERM U1314, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Vincent Davy
- Department of Neurology, Hôpital Pitié Salpétrière, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Gian Luigi Gigli
- Department of Medicine (DMED), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Clinical Neurology, Department of Head-Neck and Neuroscience, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU FC), Udine, Italy
| | - Jérôme Honnorat
- French Reference Centre for Paraneoplastic Neurological Syndromes and Autoimmune Encephalitis, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Neurologique, Bron, France
- MeLiS - UCBL-CNRS UMR 5284 - INSERM U1314, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Mariarosaria Valente
- Department of Medicine (DMED), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Clinical Neurology, Department of Head-Neck and Neuroscience, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU FC), Udine, Italy
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Li Y, Kong HE, Cheeley J. Eosinophilic fasciitis following COVID-19: A case series of 3 patients. JAAD Case Rep 2024; 44:6-10. [PMID: 38292575 PMCID: PMC10824685 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdcr.2023.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Li
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Ha Eun Kong
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Justin Cheeley
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
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9
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Scott RC, Moshé SL, Holmes GL. Do vaccines cause epilepsy? Review of cases in the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. Epilepsia 2024; 65:293-321. [PMID: 37914395 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17794] [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: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986 created the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP), a no-fault alternative to the traditional tort system. Since 1988, the total compensation paid exceeds $5 billion. Although epilepsy is one of the leading reasons for filing a claim, there has been no review of the process and validity of the legal outcomes given current medical information. The objectives were to review the evolution of the VICP program in regard to vaccine-related epilepsy and assess the rationale behind decisions made by the court. METHODS Publicly available cases involving epilepsy claims in the VICP were searched through Westlaw and the US Court of Federal Claims websites. All published reports were reviewed for petitioner's theories supporting vaccine-induced epilepsy, respondent's counterarguments, the final decision regarding compensation, and the rationale underlying these decisions. The primary goal was to determine which factors went into decisions regarding whether vaccines caused epilepsy. RESULTS Since the first epilepsy case in 1989, there have been many changes in the program, including the removal of residual seizure disorder as a vaccine-related injury, publication of the Althen prongs, release of the acellular form of pertussis, and recognition that in genetic conditions the underlying genetic abnormality rather than the immunization causes epilepsy. We identified 532 unique cases with epilepsy: 105 with infantile spasms and 427 with epilepsy without infantile spasms. The petitioners' experts often espoused outdated, erroneous causation theories that lacked an acceptable medical or scientific foundation and were frequently criticized by the court. SIGNIFICANCE Despite the lack of epidemiological or mechanistic evidence indicating that childhood vaccines covered by the VICP result in or aggravate epilepsy, these cases continue to be adjudicated. After 35 years of intense litigation, it is time to reconsider whether epilepsy should continue to be a compensable vaccine-induced injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodney C Scott
- Nemours Children's Hospital-Delaware, Wilmington, Delaware, USA
| | - Solomon L Moshé
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Gregory L Holmes
- Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
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10
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Mead MN, Seneff S, Wolfinger R, Rose J, Denhaerynck K, Kirsch S, McCullough PA. COVID-19 mRNA Vaccines: Lessons Learned from the Registrational Trials and Global Vaccination Campaign. Cureus 2024; 16:e52876. [PMID: 38274635 PMCID: PMC10810638 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52876] [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: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of COVID-19 vaccinations and their impact on health and mortality has evolved substantially since the first vaccine rollouts. Published reports from the original randomized phase 3 trials concluded that the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines could greatly reduce COVID-19 symptoms. In the interim, problems with the methods, execution, and reporting of these pivotal trials have emerged. Re-analysis of the Pfizer trial data identified statistically significant increases in serious adverse events (SAEs) in the vaccine group. Numerous SAEs were identified following the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), including death, cancer, cardiac events, and various autoimmune, hematological, reproductive, and neurological disorders. Furthermore, these products never underwent adequate safety and toxicological testing in accordance with previously established scientific standards. Among the other major topics addressed in this narrative review are the published analyses of serious harms to humans, quality control issues and process-related impurities, mechanisms underlying adverse events (AEs), the immunologic basis for vaccine inefficacy, and concerning mortality trends based on the registrational trial data. The risk-benefit imbalance substantiated by the evidence to date contraindicates further booster injections and suggests that, at a minimum, the mRNA injections should be removed from the childhood immunization program until proper safety and toxicological studies are conducted. Federal agency approval of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines on a blanket-coverage population-wide basis had no support from an honest assessment of all relevant registrational data and commensurate consideration of risks versus benefits. Given the extensive, well-documented SAEs and unacceptably high harm-to-reward ratio, we urge governments to endorse a global moratorium on the modified mRNA products until all relevant questions pertaining to causality, residual DNA, and aberrant protein production are answered.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Nathaniel Mead
- Biology and Nutritional Epidemiology, Independent Research, Copper Hill, USA
| | - Stephanie Seneff
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, USA
| | - Russ Wolfinger
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Independent Research, Research Triangle Park, USA
| | - Jessica Rose
- Immunology and Public Health Research, Independent Research, Ottawa, CAN
| | - Kris Denhaerynck
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Independent Research, Basel, CHE
| | - Steve Kirsch
- Data Science, Independent Research, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Peter A McCullough
- Cardiology, Epidemiology, and Public Health, McCullough Foundation, Dallas, USA
- Cardiology, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Truth for Health Foundation, Tucson, USA
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11
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Emmenegger M, Emmenegger V, Shambat SM, Scheier TC, Gomez-Mejia A, Chang CC, Wendel-Garcia PD, Buehler PK, Buettner T, Roggenbuck D, Brugger SD, Frauenknecht KBM. Antiphospholipid antibodies are enriched post-acute COVID-19 but do not modulate the thrombotic risk. Clin Immunol 2023; 257:109845. [PMID: 37995947 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2023.109845] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES COVID-19-associated coagulopathy, shown to increase the risk for the occurrence of thromboses and microthromboses, displays phenotypic features of the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), a prototype antibody-mediated autoimmune disease. Several groups have reported elevated levels of criteria and non-criteria antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), assumed to cause APS, during acute or post-acute COVID-19. However, disease heterogeneity of COVID-19 is accompanied by heterogeneity in molecular signatures, including aberrant cytokine profiles and an increased occurrence of autoantibodies. Moreover, little is known about the association between autoantibodies and the clinical events. Here, we first aim to characterise the antiphospholipid antibody, anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody, and the cytokine profiles in a diverse collective of COVID-19 patients (disease severity: asymptomatic to intensive care), using vaccinated individuals and influenza patients as comparisons. We then aim to assess whether the presence of aPL in COVID-19 is associated with an increased incidence of thrombotic events in COVID-19. METHODS AND RESULTS We conducted anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgA microELISA and IgG, IgA, and IgM antiphospholipid line immunoassay (LIA) against 10 criteria and non-criteria antigens in 155 plasma samples of 124 individuals, and we measured 16 cytokines and chemokines in 112 plasma samples. We additionally employed clinical and demographic parameters to conduct multivariable regression analyses within multiple paradigms. In line with recent results, we find that IgM autoantibodies against annexin V (AnV), β2-glycoprotein I (β2GPI), and prothrombin (PT) are enriched upon infection with SARS-CoV-2. There was no evidence for seroconversion from IgM to IgG or IgA. PT, β2GPI, and AnV IgM as well as cardiolipin (CL) IgG antiphospholipid levels were significantly elevated in the COVID-19 but not in the influenza or control groups. They were associated predominantly with the strength of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titres and the major correlate for thromboses was SARS-CoV-2 disease severity. CONCLUSION While we have recapitulated previous findings, we conclude that the presence of the aPL, most notably PT, β2GPI, AnV IgM, and CL IgG in COVID-19 are not associated with a higher incidence of thrombotic events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Emmenegger
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland; Division of Medical Immunology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Vishalini Emmenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Srikanth Mairpady Shambat
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas C Scheier
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alejandro Gomez-Mejia
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Chun-Chi Chang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Pedro D Wendel-Garcia
- Institute of Intensive Care Medicine, University and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Philipp K Buehler
- Institute of Intensive Care Medicine, University and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Dirk Roggenbuck
- GA Generic Assays GmbH, Dahlewitz, Germany; Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty Environment and Natural Sciences, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany; Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany
| | - Silvio D Brugger
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Katrin B M Frauenknecht
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55131 Mainz, Germany; National Center of Pathology (NCP), Laboratoire National de Santé (LNS), Luxembourg Center of Neuropathology (LCNP), 3555 Dudelange, Luxembourg
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12
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Chen J, Cano-Besquet S, Ghantarchyan H, Neeki MM. The Incidence of Alopecia Areata in a COVID-19-Vaccinated Population: A Single-Center Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e50133. [PMID: 38186412 PMCID: PMC10771325 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.50133] [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: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Cases of alopecia areata (AA) attributed to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination have been reported in recent literature. However, these reports are reflective of specific geographic areas, and whether this phenomenon is observed in other regions remains to be investigated. This study focused on the association between AA and COVID-19 vaccination among patients from a large single-center safety net hospital in California. Methodology In this study, using electronic health records of patients and publicly available vaccination data, the demographics of patients including age group, sex, and race along with the vaccination status were carefully reviewed. Results A total of 73 cases of AA in the period from the release of the COVID-19 vaccination on December 17, 2020, to February 10, 2023, were identified. The odds ratios (ORs) for developing AA among the vaccinated and unvaccinated for each demographic level were calculated. Among all vaccinated individuals, the OR for developing AA was 0.58 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.35-0.94, p-value = 0.02). Conclusions This investigation noted no apparent increase in the incidence of AA among the vaccinated population compared to the unvaccinated population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Chen
- Internal Medicine, California University of Science and Medicine, Colton, USA
| | | | | | - Michael M Neeki
- Emergency Medicine, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Colton, USA
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13
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Lin TPH, Sen M, Gupta V, Agrawal R, Lanzetta P, Giannaccare G, Chan CKM, Agrawal K, Menia NK, Rojas-Carabali W, Arora A, Martinuzzi D, Taloni A, Rubinato L, Coco G, Sarao V, Veritti D, Chen L, Honavar SG, Lam DSC. Update on coronavirus disease 2019: Ophthalmic Manifestations and Adverse Reactions to Vaccination. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2023; 12:512-536. [PMID: 38117598 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0000000000000647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 was one of the most devastating public health issues in recent decades. The ophthalmology community is as concerned about the COVID-19 pandemic as the global public health community is, as COVID-19 was recognized to affect multiple organs in the human body, including the eyes, early in the course of the outbreak. Ophthalmic manifestations of COVID-19 are highly variable and could range from mild ocular surface abnormalities to potentially sight and life-threatening orbital and neuro-ophthalmic diseases. Furthermore, ophthalmic manifestations may also be the presenting or the only findings in COVID-19 infections. Meanwhile, global vaccination campaigns to attain herd immunity in different populations are the major strategy to mitigate the pandemic. As novel vaccinations against COVID-19 emerged, so were reports on adverse ophthalmic reactions potentially related to such. As the world enters a post-pandemic state where COVID-19 continues to exist and evolve as an endemic globally, the ophthalmology community ought to be aware of and keep abreast of the latest knowledge of ophthalmic associations with COVID-19 and its vaccinations. This review is a summary of the latest literature on the ophthalmic manifestations of COVID-19 and the adverse ophthalmic reactions related to its vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy P H Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Hong Kong Eye Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mrittika Sen
- Ocular Oncology and Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery Services, Raghunath Netralaya, Mumbai, India
| | - Vishali Gupta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Advanced Eye Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rupesh Agrawal
- Lee Kong Chiang School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, Singapore, Singapore
- Duke NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Paolo Lanzetta
- Department of Medicine-Ophthalmology, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Istituto Europeo di Microchirurgia Oculare, Udine, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giannaccare
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Carmen K M Chan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Hong Kong Eye Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kajal Agrawal
- Lee Kong Chiang School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Nitin Kumar Menia
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - William Rojas-Carabali
- Lee Kong Chiang School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Atul Arora
- Department of Ophthalmology, Advanced Eye Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Andrea Taloni
- University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Viale Europa, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Leopoldo Rubinato
- Department of Medicine-Ophthalmology, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Giulia Coco
- Department of Clinical Science and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Sarao
- Department of Medicine-Ophthalmology, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Istituto Europeo di Microchirurgia Oculare, Udine, Italy
| | - Daniele Veritti
- Department of Medicine-Ophthalmology, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Lizhen Chen
- C-MER (Shenzhen) Dennis Lam Eye Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Santosh G Honavar
- Ocular Oncology and Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery Services, Centre for Sight Eye Hospital, Hyderabad, India
| | - Dennis S C Lam
- The International Eye Research Institute of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, China
- The C-MER Dennis Lam and Partners Eye Center, C-MER International Eye Care Group, Hong Kong, China
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14
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Marín JS, Mazenett-Granados EA, Salazar-Uribe JC, Sarmiento M, Suárez JF, Rojas M, Munera M, Pérez R, Morales C, Dominguez JI, Anaya JM. Increased incidence of rheumatoid arthritis after COVID-19. Autoimmun Rev 2023; 22:103409. [PMID: 37597602 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
An increase in the incidence of inflammatory arthritis after COVID-19 has been reported. Since many diseases exhibit population-specific causal effect sizes, we aimed to evaluate the incidence trends of inflammatory arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), after COVID-19 in a large admixed Colombian population. Data analysis for this retrospective, population-based cohort study was carried out using the COOSALUD EPS registry. The following codes were selected for analyses: M059, seropositive RA, M069, unspecified RA, M060 seronegative RA, and other RA-related diagnoses: M064, M139, M068, M058, M130 and M053. The study period was limited to January 01, 2018, through December 31, 2022. Incidence rates (IRs) and incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were assessed. A Cox survival model was built to evaluate the influence of age, gender, and COVID-19 vaccination status on the development of inflammatory arthritis. A bioinformatic analysis was performed to evaluate the homology between SARS-CoV-2 and autoantigen peptides related to RA. The entire population study comprised 3,335,084 individuals. During the pandemic period (2020-2022) the total IIR for seropositive and unspecified RA were 1.60 (95% CI, 1.16-2.22) and 2.93 (95% CI, 2.04-4.19), respectively, and the IIR for overall RA-related diagnosis was 2.01 (95% CI 1.59-2.53). The age groups hazard ratios (HRs) were increased until the age group of 51-60 years (HR: 9.16; 95% CI, 7.24-11.59) and then decreased slightly in the age group 61 years or older (HR: 5.364; 95% CI, 4.24-6.78) compared to those within 18-30 years. Men were less at risk than women to develop inflammatory arthritis (HR: 0.21; 95% CI, 0.18-0.24). The greater time since COVID-19 diagnosis was associated with a lower likelihood of developing inflammatory arthritis (HR: 0.99; 95% CI:0.998-0.999). Vaccination (all types of COVID-19 vaccines included) did not prevent the development of inflammatory arthritis after COVID-19. Low identity was found between the SARS-CoV-2 ORF1ab antigen and the human antigens Poly ADP-ribose polymerase 14 and Protein mono-ADP-ribosyltransferase PARP9 isoform D (39% and 29%, respectively). In conclusion, our study confirms increased incidence of inflammatory arthritis, including RA, after COVID-19, with the greatest increase occurring before the first year post-covid. Women in their fifties were more susceptible. Further research is required to examine the effectiveness of vaccination in preventing post-COVID inflammatory arthritis and the mechanisms implicated in the development of RA after COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Sebastian Marín
- Health Research and Innovation Center at Coosalud EPS, Cartagena 130001, Colombia; Population Health Management Group at Coosalud EPS, Cartagena 130001, Colombia
| | | | | | - Mauricio Sarmiento
- Health Research and Innovation Center at Coosalud EPS, Cartagena 130001, Colombia
| | - John Fredy Suárez
- Population Health Management Group at Coosalud EPS, Cartagena 130001, Colombia
| | - Manuel Rojas
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA; Center for Autoimmune Diseases Research (CREA), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Marlon Munera
- Medical Research Group (GINUMED), University Corporation Rafael Núñez, Cartagena 130002, Colombia
| | - Rosalbina Pérez
- Health Research and Innovation Center at Coosalud EPS, Cartagena 130001, Colombia
| | - Claudia Morales
- Health Research and Innovation Center at Coosalud EPS, Cartagena 130001, Colombia
| | - Jorge I Dominguez
- Health Research and Innovation Center at Coosalud EPS, Cartagena 130001, Colombia
| | - Juan-Manuel Anaya
- Health Research and Innovation Center at Coosalud EPS, Cartagena 130001, Colombia.
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15
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Uchechukwu CF, Anyaduba UL, Udekwu CC, Orababa OQ, Kade AE. Desmoglein-2 and COVID-19 complications: insights into its role as a biomarker, pathogenesis and clinical implications. J Gen Virol 2023; 104. [PMID: 37815458 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001902] [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] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Desmoglein-2 (DSG2) has emerged as a potential biomarker for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) complications, particularly cardiac and cardiovascular involvement. The expression of DSG2 in lung tissues has been detected at elevated levels, and circulating DSG2 levels correlate with COVID-19 severity. DSG2 may contribute to myocardial injury, cardiac dysfunction and vascular endothelial dysfunction in COVID-19. Monitoring DSG2 levels could aid in risk stratification, early detection and prognostication of COVID-19 complications. However, further research is required to validate DSG2 as a biomarker. Such research will aim to elucidate its precise role in pathogenesis, establishing standardized assays for its measurement and possibly identifying therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chidiebere F Uchechukwu
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria
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