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Mouchati C, Durieux JC, Zisis SN, Tribout H, Scott S, Smith B, Labbato D, McComsey GA. Zinc Deficiency And sTNF-RII Are Associated With Worse COVID-19 Outcomes. J Nutr 2024; 154:1588-1595. [PMID: 38043624 PMCID: PMC11347801 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zinc (Zn) is known for its substantial involvement in the immune response as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Zn plasma levels' clinical significance in coronavirus disease (COVID) diagnosis is not yet fully established. OBJECTIVE We assessed the association between Zn deficiency, gut integrity, inflammation, and COVID-19 outcomes. METHODS A prospective observational cohort in which plasma Zn, soluble tumor necrosis factor alpha receptor II (sTNF-RII) intestinal fatty-acid binding protein (IFABP; marker of intestinal integrity), and zonulin levels (intestinal permeability) were collected from participants during the acute phase of a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis. Zn was modeled as continuous and binary, categorized as Zn deficiency (Zn < 75 μg/dL) and Zn sufficiency (Zn ≥ 75 μg/dL). COVID-19 outcomes were classified according to the World Health Organization clinical progression scale. We used cumulative probit regression to assess if suboptimal Zn levels, gut, and inflammatory markers increase the likelihood of worse COVID-19 outcomes. RESULTS Zn deficiency was independently associated with 63% higher predicted odds of worse COVID outcomes. Increases in sTNF-RII {unadjusted odds ratio (uOR): 3.43 [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.02, 5.82]} and zonulin [uOR: 1.83 (95% CI: 1.21, 2.76)] levels were associated with greater odds of worse COVID outcomes. IFABP was not associated with worse COVID outcomes [uOR: 1.12 (95% CI: 0.82, 1.53)] or acute Zn deficiency [uOR: 1.35 (95% CI: 0.79, 2.35)]. The adjusted predicted odds of worse COVID outcomes are 3-fold higher (P = 0.04) for every one-unit decrease in Zn and is more than 2 times greater odds of COVID severity (P = 0.01) for every 1-unit increase in sTNF-RII. CONCLUSION Zn deficiency and inflammation were independently associated with greater odds of worse COVID outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Mouchati
- School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Jared C Durieux
- Center for Clinical Research, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Sokratis N Zisis
- School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Heather Tribout
- Center for Clinical Research, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Sarah Scott
- Center for Clinical Research, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Beth Smith
- Center for Clinical Research, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Danielle Labbato
- Center for Clinical Research, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Grace A McComsey
- School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States; Center for Clinical Research, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States.
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Hosseinpour A, Daneshzad E, Dezfouli RA, Zamani S, Qorbani M. The Association Between Antioxidants and COVID-19 Outcomes: a Systematic Review on Observational Studies. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:5098-5114. [PMID: 36840911 PMCID: PMC9959932 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03588-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
It is proven that the blood concentration of antioxidants can impress the severity of viral infections, including COVID-19. However, the lack of a comprehensive study accumulating existing data regarding COVID-19 can be perceived. Therefore, this systematic review is aimed to report the association between the blood concentration of several antioxidants and the overall health condition of COVID-19 patients. We summarized the available data surrounding the serum antioxidant level in COVID-19 patients and COVID-19 outcomes. A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane, and studies that evaluated the association between antioxidants and COVID-19 outcomes were included. Of 4101 articles that were viewed in the database search, 38 articles were included after the title, abstract, and full-text review. Twenty-nine studies indicated that lower serum antioxidants are associated with worse outcomes, and one study reported no association between serum zinc (Zn) level and COVID-19 outcomes. In most cases, antioxidant deficiency was associated with high inflammatory factors, high mortality, acute kidney injury, thrombosis, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, acute respiratory distress syndrome, cardiac injury, and the need for mechanical ventilation (MV), and there was no significant association between serum antioxidants level and ICU or hospital length of stay (LOS). It seems that higher levels of antioxidants in COVID-19 patients may be beneficial to prevent disease progression. However, clinical trials are needed to confirm this conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Hosseinpour
- Research Students Committee, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Elnaz Daneshzad
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
| | - Ramin Abdi Dezfouli
- Chronic Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shokoofeh Zamani
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mostafa Qorbani
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
- Chronic Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Gurukkalot K, Rajendran V. Repurposing Polyether Ionophores as a New-Class of Anti-SARS-Cov-2 Agents as Adjunct Therapy. Curr Microbiol 2023; 80:273. [PMID: 37414909 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03366-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 and its variants have posed a significant threat to humankind in tackling the viral spread. Furthermore, currently repurposed drugs and frontline antiviral agents have failed to cure severe ongoing infections effectively. This insufficiency has fuelled research for potent and safe therapeutic agents to treat COVID-19. Nonetheless, various vaccine candidates have displayed a differential efficacy and need for repetitive dosing. The FDA-approved polyether ionophore veterinary antibiotic for treating coccidiosis has been repurposed for treating SARS-CoV-2 infection (as shown by both in vitro and in vivo studies) and other deadly human viruses. Based on selectivity index values, ionophores display therapeutic effects at sub-nanomolar concentrations and exhibit selective killing ability. They act on different viral targets (structural and non-structural proteins), host-cell components leading to SARS-CoV-2 inhibition, and their activity is further enhanced by Zn2+ supplementation. This review summarizes the anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential and molecular viral targets of selective ionophores like monensin, salinomycin, maduramicin, CP-80,219, nanchangmycin, narasin, X-206 and valinomycin. Ionophore combinations with Zn2+ are a new therapeutic strategy that warrants further investigation for possible human benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keerthana Gurukkalot
- Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, 605014, India
| | - Vinoth Rajendran
- Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, 605014, India.
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Rodelgo Jiménez L, Anchuelo AC, Soler PM, Muñoz RP, Ferrer MF, Fornie IS, Mosquera MG, González MMN. Zinc levels of patients with a moderate to severe COVID-19 infection at hospital admission and after 4th days of ward hospitalization and their clinical outcome. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2023; 79:127200. [PMID: 37229980 PMCID: PMC10181947 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2023.127200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies associate the disturbance of the Zinc (Zn) status with the severity of the disease and the inflammatory process in the critically ill patient. This decrease in Zn concentrations is an indicator of poor prognosis. Our aim was to evaluate Zn levels at admission and after four days, and to study if lower Zn levels at those days were related to a worse clinical outcome. MATERIAL AND METHODS Observational cohort study at a tertiary Hospital. Recruitment period: 09/04/2020-04/24/2021. Clinical information on hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or bronchial asthma was collected. Obesity was defined as BMI ≥ 30 Kg/m2. Blood extraction was performed at admission and after 4 days. Zn was measured by atomic absorption using a flame method. Worse clinical outcome was defined as death during admission, intensive critical care unit admission or receiving supplemental oxygen through noninvasive or invasive ventilator care. RESULTS 129 subjects were invited to participate but only 100 subjects completed the survey. According to ROC curve [AUC= 0.63 (95% CI 0.60-0.66)], Zn < 79 μg/dL showed the best performance to detect a worse outcome (Sn=0.85; Sp=0.36). Patients with Zn < 79 μg/dL were older (70 vs 61 y; p = 0.002) with no differences by sex. Most patients presented with fever, dysthermic symptoms and cough, without differences between groups. Pre-existing comorbid conditions did not differ significantly between groups. Less obese subjects were found in the Zn < 79 μg/dL group (21.4 vs 43.3%, p = 0.025). In the univariate analysis, Zn < 79 μg/dL at hospital admission was related to a worse outcome (p = 0.044), but after adjusting for age, C-reactive protein, and obesity there was no difference, but a tendency towards a worse prognosis [OR 2.20 (0.63-7.70), p = 0.215]. Zn levels increased in both groups after 4 days (66.6 vs 73.1 μg/dL at admission, and 72.2 vs 80.5 μg/dL at 4th day), with ns. difference (p = 0.214). CONCLUSION Zn < 79 μg/dL at admission for a moderate to severe COVID-19 infection could be related to a worse outcome, although after adjustment for age, C-reactive protein levels and obesity, this Zn level threshold did not show statistically significant difference in the composite end point, but a tendency towards a worse prognosis. In addition, patients with the best clinical evolution showed higher serum Zn levels at 4th day after hospital admission than the patients with a worse prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Rodelgo Jiménez
- Instituto de Medicina de Laboratorio (IML), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Arturo Corbatón Anchuelo
- Grupo de Riesgo Vascular, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain; Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Pablo Matías Soler
- Grupo de Patología de Urgencias y Emergencias, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Raúl Perales Muñoz
- Grupo de Patología de Urgencias y Emergencias, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Fuentes Ferrer
- Unidad de Investigación (UI) del Hospital Universitario Nuestra Señora de Candelaria (HUNSC-GAP), Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Iñigo Sagastagoitia Fornie
- Grupo de Infecciosas/VIH, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marina Gil Mosquera
- Grupo de Patología de Urgencias y Emergencias, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Martínez-Novillo González
- Instituto de Medicina de Laboratorio (IML), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
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Radpay R, Eghtesadi S. Relationship between Plasma Levels of Zinc and Magnesium with the Treatment Process and Mortality Risk in COVID-19 Patients. TANAFFOS 2023; 22:236-247. [PMID: 38628887 PMCID: PMC11016917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic is considered a major health problem all over the world which has caused extensive and worldwide mortality and morbidities along with vast economic and political impact. Limitations of our knowledge and controversies in treatment modalities make the control and management of this disease more difficult. The status of electrolytes especially Mg and Zn in plasma and its correlation with the clinical situation and criteria for recovery has been investigated in various studies. Limited data in Iran mandate the design of a trial for evaluating our critically ill patients. We designed this study to investigate the correlation between plasma levels of Mg and Zn and the outcome including patients' need for assisted/controlled ventilation, time required for weaning, length of ICU stay, and probable cause of death. Materials and Methods 413 patients with severe respiratory signs of COVID-19 disease who were admitted to the ICUs of 3 medical centers of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences were evaluated for plasma levels of Mg and Zn. Supplemental therapy was introduced when needed and was followed until discharge from ICU or death. All recorded data were analyzed by statistical methods and results were compared with similar studies. Results 20.6% and 35.1% of all participants had low serum levels of Mg and Zn, respectively. 11 patients (2.7%) died through the treatment period. 56.9% and 61.0% of participants received Mg and Zn supplements, respectively. Conclusion According to our results, serum Mg and Zn levels did not show a significant correlation with the risk of death due to severe COVID-19 disease, prolonged assisted ventilation, or duration of ICU stay. There was no significant association between Mg and Zn supplementation with the risk of death due to severe COVID-19; however, it showed an inverse relationship with the time required for assisted ventilation and the duration of ICU stay. It seems that Mg and Zn supplementation can be useful in preventing or managing some of the morbidities among COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rojan Radpay
- Master Science Student, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahryar Eghtesadi
- Professor at Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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Engin AB, Engin ED, Engin A. Can iron, zinc, copper and selenium status be a prognostic determinant in COVID-19 patients? ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2022; 95:103937. [PMID: 35882309 PMCID: PMC9307469 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2022.103937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
In severe COVID-19, the levels of iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn) and selenium (Se), do not only regulate host immune responses, but modify the viral genome, as well. While low serum Fe concentration is an independent risk factor for the increased death rate, Zn controls oxidative stress, synthesis of inflammatory cytokines and viral replication. Therefore, Zn deficiency associates with a worse prognosis. Although Cu exposure inactivates the viral genome and exhibits spike protein dispersal, increase in Cu/Zn due to high serum Cu levels, are correlated with enhanced risk of infections. Se levels are significantly higher in surviving COVID-19 patients. Meanwhile, both Zn and Se suppress the replication of SARS-CoV-2. Since the balance between the deficiency and oversupply of these metals due to a reciprocal relationship, has decisive effect on the prognosis of the SARS-CoV-2 infection, monitoring their concentrations may facilitate improved outcomes for patients suffering from COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayse Basak Engin
- Gazi University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Toxicology, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Evren Doruk Engin
- Ankara University, Biotechnology Institute, Gumusdere Campus, Kecioren, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Atilla Engin
- Gazi University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of General Surgery, Ankara, Turkey
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Wang F, Zhong J, Zhang R, Sun Y, Dong Y, Wang M, Sun C. Zinc and COVID-19: Immunity, Susceptibility, Severity and Intervention. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 64:1969-1987. [PMID: 36094452 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2119932] [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: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and continuing emergence of viral mutants, there has been a lack of effective treatment methods. Zinc maintains immune function, with direct and indirect antiviral activities. Zinc nutritional status is a critical factor in antiviral immune responses. Importantly, COVID-19 and zinc deficiency overlap in high-risk population. Hence, the potential effect of zinc as a preventive and adjunct therapy for COVID-19 is intriguing. Here, this review summarizes the immune and antiviral function of zinc, the relationship between zinc levels, susceptibility, and severity of COVID-19, and the effect of zinc supplementation on COVID-19. Existing studies have confirmed that zinc deficiency was associated with COVID-19 susceptibility and severity. Zinc supplementation plays a potentially protective role in enhancing immunity, decreasing susceptibility, shortening illness duration, and reducing the severity of COVID-19. We recommend that zinc levels should be monitored, particularly in COVID-19 patients, and zinc as a preventive and adjunct therapy for COVID-19 should be considered for groups at risk of zinc deficiency to reduce susceptibility and disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jiayi Zhong
- National Key Disciplines of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- National Key Disciplines of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yongzhi Sun
- National Key Disciplines of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yingran Dong
- National Key Disciplines of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Maoqing Wang
- National Key Disciplines of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Changhao Sun
- National Key Disciplines of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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Li H, Yuan S, Wei X, Sun H. Metal-based strategies for the fight against COVID-19. Chem Commun (Camb) 2022; 58:7466-7482. [PMID: 35730442 DOI: 10.1039/d2cc01772e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The emerging COVID-19 pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has claimed over six million lives globally to date. Despite the availability of vaccines, the pandemic still cannot be fully controlled owing to rapid mutation of the virus that renders enhanced transmissibility and antibody evasion. This is thus an unmet need to develop safe and effective therapeutic options for COVID-19, in particular, remedies that can be used at home. Considering the great success of multi-targeted cocktail therapy for the treatment of viral infections, metal-based drugs might represent a unique and new source of antivirals that resemble a cocktail therapy in terms of their mode of actions. In this review, we first summarize the role that metal ions played in SARS-CoV-2 viral replication and pathogenesis, then highlight the chemistry of metal-based strategies in the fight against SARS-CoV-2 infection, including both metal displacement and chelation based approaches. Finally, we outline a perspective and direction on how to design and develop metal-based antivirals for the fight against the current or future coronavirus pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Li
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry and CAS-HKU Joint Laboratory of Metallomics on Health and Environment, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Shuofeng Yuan
- Department of Microbiology and State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xueying Wei
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry and CAS-HKU Joint Laboratory of Metallomics on Health and Environment, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China. .,Department of Microbiology and State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hongzhe Sun
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Synthetic Chemistry and CAS-HKU Joint Laboratory of Metallomics on Health and Environment, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Omer AK, Khorshidi S, Mortazavi N, Rahman HS. A Review on the Antiviral Activity of Functional Foods Against COVID-19 and Viral Respiratory Tract Infections. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:4817-4835. [PMID: 35592539 PMCID: PMC9112189 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s361001] [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: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the absence of successful therapy, vaccines for protection are continuously being developed. Since vaccines must be thoroughly tested, viral respiratory tract infections (VRTIs), mainly coronaviruses, have seriously affected human health worldwide in recent years. In this review, we presented the relevant data which originated from trusted publishers regarding the practical benefits of functional foods (FFs) and their dietary sources, in addition to natural plant products, in viral respiratory and COVID-19 prevention and immune-boosting activities. As a result, FFs were confirmed to be functionally active ingredients for preventing COVID-19 and VRTIs. Furthermore, the antiviral activity and immunological effects of FFs against VRTIs and COVID-19 and their potential main mechanisms of action are also being reviewed. Therefore, to prevent COVID-19 and VRTIs, it is critical to identify controlling the activities and immune-enhancing functional food constituents as early as possible. We further aimed to summarize functional food constituents as a dietary supplement that aids in immune system boosting and may effectively reduce VRTIs and COVID-19 and promote therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Khalid Omer
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
- Razga Company, Sulaimaniyah, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Sonia Khorshidi
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Negar Mortazavi
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Heshu Sulaiman Rahman
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Sulaimaniyah, Iraq
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Komar University of Science and Technology, Sulaimaniyah, Iraq
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Tahoun AMMA, El-Enin MMA, Mancy AG, Sheta MH, Shaaban A. Integrative Soil Application of Humic Acid and Foliar Plant Growth Stimulants Improves Soil Properties and Wheat Yield and Quality in Nutrient-Poor Sandy Soil of a Semiarid Region. JOURNAL OF SOIL SCIENCE AND PLANT NUTRITION 2022; 22:2857-2871. [PMID: 35528198 PMCID: PMC9059912 DOI: 10.1007/s42729-022-00851-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Sandy soils (containing > 50% sand) are widely distributed worldwide and are characterized by their poor structure, low organic matter, weak hydraulic and nutritional properties, and low crop productivity. Using a 2-year pot experiment, in this study, we investigated the effects of humic acid (HA) as a soil amendment and study two plant growth stimulants (PGSs), zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs), and L-tryptophan (L-TRP), as a foliar application on wheat grown in nutrient-poor sandy soil. Three HA rates (0 (HA0), 0.2 (HA0.2), and 0.4 (HA0.4) g kg-1 soil) and five PGS levels [control, 50 mg l-1 (ZnONPs50), 100 mg l-1 (ZnONPs100), 0.25 mmol l-1 (L-TRP0.25), and 0.5 mmol l-1 (L-TRP0.5)] were used. The soil hydro-physico-chemical properties, morpho-physiological responses, yield, and quality were measured. HA addition amended the soil structure by allowing rapid macroaggregate formation, decreasing bulk density and pH, and increasing porosity and electrical conductivity, thereby improving soil hydraulic properties. HA0.2 and HA0.4 additions improved growth, yield components, and grain minerals, resulting in higher grain yield by 28.3-54.4%, grain protein by 10.2-13.4%, wet gluten by 18.2-23.3%, and dry gluten by 23.5-29.5%, respectively, than HA0. Foliar application of ZnONPs or L-TRP, especially at higher concentrations compared to the control, noticeably recorded the same positive results as HA treatments. The best results were achieved through the integration of HA0.4 + ZnONPs100 or L-TRP0.5 to the tested nutrient-poor sandy soil. The interactive application of HA0.4 + ZnONPs100 or L-TRP0.5 and the use of mineral fertilizer, which is considered a surplus point in permaculture, can be recommended for sustainable wheat production in nutrient-poor sandy soil.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ahmed G. Mancy
- Soils and Water Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, 11884 Egypt
| | - Mohamed H. Sheta
- Soils and Water Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, 11884 Egypt
| | - Ahmed Shaaban
- Agronomy Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Fayoum, 63514 Egypt
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Balboni E, Zagnoli F, Filippini T, Fairweather-Tait SJ, Vinceti M. Zinc and selenium supplementation in COVID-19 prevention and treatment: a systematic review of the experimental studies. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2022; 71:126956. [PMID: 35217499 PMCID: PMC8853960 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2022.126956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected the world's population in the last two years. Along with non-pharmacological public health interventions, major efforts have also been made to identify effective drugs or active substances for COVID-19 prevention and treatment. These include, among many others, the trace elements zinc and selenium, based on laboratory studies and some observational human studies. However, both of these study designs are not adequate to identify and approve treatments in human medicine, and experimental studies in the form of randomized controlled trials are needed to demonstrate the effectiveness and the safety of any interventions. METHODS We undertook a systematic review in which we searched for published and unpublished clinical trials using zinc or selenium supplementation to treat or prevent COVID-19 in the Pubmed, Scopus and ClinicalTrials databases up to 10 January 2022. RESULTS Amongst the published studies, we did not find any trial with selenium, whereas we retrieved four eligible randomized clinical trials using zinc supplementation, only one of which was double-blind. One of these trials looked at the effect of the intervention on the rate of new SARS-CoV-2 infections, and three at the COVID-19 clinical outcome in already infected individuals. The study populations of the four trials were very heterogeneous, ranging from uninfected individuals to those hospitalized for COVID-19. Only two studies investigated zinc alone in the intervention arm with no differences in the endpoints. The other two studies examined zinc in association with one or more drugs and supplements in the intervention arm, therefore making it impossible to disentangle any specific effects of the element. In addition, we identified 22 unpublished ongoing clinical trials, 19 on zinc, one on selenium and two on both elements. CONCLUSION No trials investigated the effect of selenium supplementation on COVID-19, while the very few studies on the effects of zinc supplementation did not confirm efficacy. Therefore, preventive or therapeutic interventions against COVID-19 based on zinc or selenium supplementation are currently unjustified, although when the results of the on-going studies are published, this may change our conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Balboni
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Section of Public Health, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Zagnoli
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Section of Public Health, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Filippini
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Section of Public Health, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Marco Vinceti
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Section of Public Health, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, USA.
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12
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Elements and COVID-19: A Comprehensive Overview of Studies on Their Blood/Urinary Levels and Supplementation with an Update on Clinical Trials. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11020215. [PMID: 35205082 PMCID: PMC8869171 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary COVID-19 is a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus spreading mainly through person-to-person contact. It has caused millions of deaths around the world and lasting health problems in individuals who have survived the disease. This review concisely summarizes certain issues related to COVID-19 with a focus on elements and gives an update on clinical trials where some minerals will be tested/have been tested alone or in combination with drugs, vitamins, or plant extracts/herbal formulations in COVID-19 patients and in those at higher COVID-19 risk. Abstract The current report provides a brief overview of the clinical features, hematological/biochemical abnormalities, biomarkers, and AI-related strategies in COVID-19; presents in a nutshell the pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapeutic options; and concisely summarizes the most important aspects related to sociodemographic and behavioral factors as well as comorbidities having an impact on this disease. It also gives a brief outline of the effect of selected elements on immune response and collects data on the levels of micro-/macro-elements and toxic metals in the blood/urine of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients and on supplementation with minerals in COVID-19 subjects. Moreover, this review provides an overview of clinical trials based on the use of minerals alone or in combination with other agents that can provide effective responses toward SARS-CoV-2 infection. The knowledge compiled in this report lays the groundwork for new therapeutic treatments and further research on biomarkers that should be as informative as possible about the patient’s condition and can provide more reliable information on COVID-19 course and prognosis. The collected results point to the need for clarification of the importance of mineral supplementation in COVID-19 and the relationships of the levels of some minerals with clinical improvement.
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13
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Ni YQ, Zeng HH, Song XW, Zheng J, Wu HQ, Liu CT, Zhang Y. Potential metal-related strategies for prevention and treatment of COVID-19. RARE METALS 2022; 41:1129-1141. [PMID: 35068851 PMCID: PMC8761834 DOI: 10.1007/s12598-021-01894-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Abstract The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has posed severe threats to human health, public safety, and the global economy. Metal nutrient elements can directly or indirectly take part in human immune responses, and metal-related drugs have served as antiviral drugs and/or enzyme inhibitors for many years, providing potential solutions to the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Metal-based drugs are currently under a variety of chemical structures and exhibit wide-range bioactivities, demonstrating irreplaceable advantages in pharmacology. This review is an intention to summarize recent progress in the prevention and treatment strategies against COVID-19 from the perspective of metal pharmacology. The current and potential utilization of metal-based drugs is briefly introduced. Specifically, metallohydrogels that have been shown to present superior antiviral activities are stressed in the paper as potential drugs for the treatment of COVID-19. Graphic abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Qiong Ni
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Materials Interface Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083 China
| | - Hui-Hui Zeng
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Materials Interface Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083 China
| | - Xian-Wen Song
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Materials Interface Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083 China
| | - Jun Zheng
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Materials Interface Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083 China
| | - Hui-Qiong Wu
- Hanshan Normal University, Chaozhou, 521041 China
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071 China
| | - Chun-Tai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Mold (Zhengzhou University), Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou, 450002 China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Materials Interface Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083 China
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14
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Puścion-Jakubik A, Bielecka J, Grabia M, Mielech A, Markiewicz-Żukowska R, Mielcarek K, Moskwa J, Naliwajko SK, Soroczyńska J, Gromkowska-Kępka KJ, Nowakowski P, Socha K. Consumption of Food Supplements during the Three COVID-19 Waves in Poland-Focus on Zinc and Vitamin D. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13103361. [PMID: 34684363 PMCID: PMC8538476 DOI: 10.3390/nu13103361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Food supplements (FS) are a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, or other ingredients with nutritional or other physiological effects. Due to their easy availability, widespread advertising, and sometimes low price, increased consumption of this group of preparations has been observed. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the knowledge and intake of FS during the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland, with particular reference to FS containing zinc and vitamin D. It was noted that both of the above ingredients were used significantly more often by people with higher education (59.0%), with a medical background or related working in the medical field (54.5%), and/or exercising at home (60.1%). Preparations containing vitamin D were used by 22.8% of the respondents in the first wave, 37.6% in the second wave, and 32.9% in the third wave. To sum up, we showed the highest consumption of vitamin and mineral supplements, and preparations containing zinc and vitamin D were taken significantly more often by people with higher medical and related education. This indicates a high awareness of health aspects and the need for preventive measures in these groups.
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15
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Dhar C, Sasmal A, Diaz S, Verhagen A, Yu H, Li W, Chen X, Varki A. Are sialic acids involved in COVID-19 pathogenesis? Glycobiology 2021; 31:1068-1071. [PMID: 34192318 PMCID: PMC8344891 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/cwab063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chirag Dhar
- Departments of Medicine and Cellular and Molecular Medicine, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA.,Glycobiology Research and Training Center (GRTC), UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Aniruddha Sasmal
- Departments of Medicine and Cellular and Molecular Medicine, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA.,Glycobiology Research and Training Center (GRTC), UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Sandra Diaz
- Departments of Medicine and Cellular and Molecular Medicine, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA.,Glycobiology Research and Training Center (GRTC), UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Andrea Verhagen
- Departments of Medicine and Cellular and Molecular Medicine, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA.,Glycobiology Research and Training Center (GRTC), UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Hai Yu
- Department of Chemistry, UC Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Wanqing Li
- Department of Chemistry, UC Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Chemistry, UC Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Ajit Varki
- Departments of Medicine and Cellular and Molecular Medicine, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA.,Glycobiology Research and Training Center (GRTC), UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA
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