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Kutlutürk Karagöz I, Önder Tokuç E, Karabaş L, Rückert R, Kaya M, Munk MR. Expression of key SARS-CoV-2 entry molecules in surgically obtained human retinal biopsies. Int Ophthalmol 2023; 43:5055-5062. [PMID: 37847479 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-023-02908-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the presence of ACE2, TMPRSS2 and Furin, i.e., a key player in the ocular infection with SARS-COV-2, in surgically obtained human retinal tissue samples from SARS-CoV-2-negative patients, using gene expression analysis. METHODS The mechanisms and entry paths of ocular infections have been ill-defined so far. To better understand the possible entry routes, we used surgically explanted retinal tissue from nine patients that were not infected with SARS-CoV-2 and analyzed the message expression of the three key molecules that confer viral entry into cells using polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS The median age of the patients (n = 9) included in the study was 52 years (IQR 48, 55). Eight patients underwent surgery for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and one patient for tractional retinal detachment. Gene expression for the proteins studied was detected in all nine patients. The results of analysis by Livak's method (2001) demonstrated a median TMPRSS2 gene expression value of 20.9 (IQR 11.7, 33.7), a median ACE2 gene expression value of 2.09 (IQR 1.14, 2.79) and a median Furin gene expression value of 8.33 (IQR 5.90, 11.8). CONCLUSION In conclusion, TMPRSS2, Furin and ACE2 are expressed in the retina and may contribute to the retinal involvement in COVID-19 patients. Expression may vary among individuals, which may explain why some patients may be more prone to retinal involvement during SARS-CoV-2 infection COVID-19 patients than others. Variability in the expression of TMPRSS2, Furin and ACE2 proteins themselves may also explain the presence or development of retinal symptoms of varying severity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ecem Önder Tokuç
- Ophthalmology Department, Kocaeli University School of Medicine, Izmit, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Levent Karabaş
- Ophthalmology Department, Kocaeli University School of Medicine, Izmit, Kocaeli, Turkey.
| | | | | | - Marion R Munk
- Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- BPRC, Bern Photographic Reading Center, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Host Genetic Variants Linked to COVID-19 Neurological Complications and Susceptibility in Young Adults-A Preliminary Analysis. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13010123. [PMID: 36675784 PMCID: PMC9860613 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13010123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
To date, multiple efforts have been made to use genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to untangle the genetic basis for SARS-CoV-2 infection susceptibility and severe COVID-19. However, data on the genetic-related effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the presence of accompanying and long-term post-COVID-19 neurological symptoms in younger individuals remain absent. We aimed to examine the possible association between SNPs found in a GWAS of COVID-19 outcomes and three phenotypes: SARS-CoV-2 infection, neurological complications during disease progression, and long-term neurological complications in young adults with a mild-to-moderate disease course. University students (N = 336, age 18-25 years, European ancestry) with or without COVID-19 and neurological symptoms in anamnesis comprised the study sample. Logistic regression was performed with COVID-19-related phenotypes as outcomes, and the top 25 SNPs from GWAS meta-analyses and an MR study linking COVID-19 and cognitive deficits were found. We replicated previously reported associations of the FURIN and SLC6A20 gene variants (OR = 2.36, 95% CI 1.31-4.24) and OR = 1.94, 95% CI 1.08-3.49, respectively) and remaining neurological complications (OR = 2.12, 95% CI 1.10-4.35 for SLC6A20), while NR1H2 (OR = 2.99, 95% CI 1.39-6.69) and TMPRSS2 (OR = 2.03, 95% CI 1.19-3.50) SNPs were associated with neurological symptoms accompanying COVID-19. Our findings indicate that genetic variants related to a severe COVID-19 course in adults may contribute to the occurrence of neurological repercussions in individuals at a young age.
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Rubio-Casillas A, Redwan EM, Uversky VN. SARS-CoV-2: A Master of Immune Evasion. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061339. [PMID: 35740361 PMCID: PMC9220273 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Viruses and their hosts have coevolved for a long time. This coevolution places both the pathogen and the human immune system under selective pressure; on the one hand, the immune system has evolved to combat viruses and virally infected cells, while viruses have developed sophisticated mechanisms to escape recognition and destruction by the immune system. SARS-CoV-2, the pathogen that is causing the current COVID-19 pandemic, has shown a remarkable ability to escape antibody neutralization, putting vaccine efficacy at risk. One of the virus’s immune evasion strategies is mitochondrial sabotage: by causing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitochondrial physiology is impaired, and the interferon antiviral response is suppressed. Seminal studies have identified an intra-cytoplasmatic pathway for viral infection, which occurs through the construction of tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), hence enhancing infection and avoiding immune surveillance. Another method of evading immune monitoring is the disruption of the antigen presentation. In this scenario, SARS-CoV-2 infection reduces MHC-I molecule expression: SARS-CoV-2’s open reading frames (ORF 6 and ORF 8) produce viral proteins that specifically downregulate MHC-I molecules. All of these strategies are also exploited by other viruses to elude immune detection and should be studied in depth to improve the effectiveness of future antiviral treatments. Compared to the Wuhan strain or the Delta variant, Omicron has developed mutations that have impaired its ability to generate syncytia, thus reducing its pathogenicity. Conversely, other mutations have allowed it to escape antibody neutralization and preventing cellular immune recognition, making it the most contagious and evasive variant to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Rubio-Casillas
- Biology Laboratory, Autlán Regional Preparatory School, University of Guadalajara, Autlán 48900, Jalisco, Mexico
- Correspondence: (A.R.-C.); (V.N.U.); Tel.: +52-317-38-935-55 (A.R.-C.)
| | - Elrashdy M. Redwan
- Biological Science Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
- Therapeutic and Protective Proteins Laboratory, Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City for Scientific Research and Technology Applications, New Borg EL-Arab, Alexandria 21934, Egypt
| | - Vladimir N. Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine and USF Health Byrd Alzheimer’s Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
- Correspondence: (A.R.-C.); (V.N.U.); Tel.: +52-317-38-935-55 (A.R.-C.)
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Jiménez D, Torres Arias M. Immunouniverse of SARS-CoV-2. Immunol Med 2022; 45:186-224. [PMID: 35502127 DOI: 10.1080/25785826.2022.2066251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 virus has become a global health problem that has caused millions of deaths worldwide. The infection can present with multiple clinical features ranging from asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic patients to patients with severe or critical illness that can even lead to death. Although the immune system plays an important role in pathogen control, SARS-CoV-2 can drive dysregulation of this response and trigger severe immunopathology. Exploring the mechanisms of the immune response involved in host defense against SARS-CoV-2 allows us to understand its immunopathogenesis and possibly detect features that can be used as potential therapies to eliminate the virus. The main objective of this review on SARS-CoV-2 is to highlight the interaction between the virus and the immune response. We explore the function and action of the immune system, the expression of molecules at the site of infection that cause hyperinflammation and hypercoagulation disorders, the factors leading to the development of pneumonia and subsequent severe acute respiratory distress syndrome which is the leading cause of death in patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Jiménez
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y Agricultura, Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas ESPE, Sangolquí, Pichincha, Ecuador
| | - Marbel Torres Arias
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y Agricultura, Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas ESPE, Sangolquí, Pichincha, Ecuador.,Laboratorio de Inmunología y Virología, CENCINAT, GISAH, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas, Sangolquí, Pichincha, Ecuador
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Theta-Defensins to Counter COVID-19 as Furin Inhibitors: In Silico Efficiency Prediction and Novel Compound Design. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:9735626. [PMID: 35154362 PMCID: PMC8829439 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9735626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was characterized as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) in Dec. 2019. SARS-CoV-2 binds to the cell membrane through spike proteins on its surface and infects the cell. Furin, a host-cell enzyme, possesses a binding site for the spike protein. Thus, molecules that block furin could potentially be a therapeutic solution. Defensins are antimicrobial peptides that can hypothetically inhibit furin because of their arginine-rich structure. Theta-defensins, a subclass of defensins, have attracted attention as drug candidates due to their small size, unique structure, and involvement in several defense mechanisms. Theta-defensins could be a potential treatment for COVID-19 through furin inhibition and an anti-inflammatory mechanism. Note that inflammatory events are a significant and deadly condition that could happen at the later stages of COVID-19 infection. Here, the potential of theta-defensins against SARS-CoV-2 infection was investigated through in silico approaches. Based on docking analysis results, theta-defensins can function as furin inhibitors. Additionally, a novel candidate peptide against COVID-19 with optimal properties regarding antigenicity, stability, electrostatic potential, and binding strength was proposed. Further in vitro/in vivo investigations could verify the efficiency of the designed novel peptide.
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Lu W, Eapen MS, Singhera GK, Markos J, Haug G, Chia C, Larby J, Brake SJ, Westall GP, Jaffar J, Kalidhindi RSR, Fonseka ND, Sathish V, Hackett TL, Sohal SS. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2), Transmembrane Peptidase Serine 2 (TMPRSS2), and Furin Expression Increases in the Lungs of Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) and Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM): Implications for SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Infections. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11030777. [PMID: 35160229 PMCID: PMC8837032 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11030777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
We previously reported higher ACE2 levels in smokers and patients with COPD. The current study investigates if patients with interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) such as IPF and LAM have elevated ACE2, TMPRSS2, and Furin levels, increasing their risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection and development of COVID-19. Surgically resected lung tissue from IPF, LAM patients, and healthy controls (HC) was immunostained for ACE2, TMPRSS2, and Furin. Percentage ACE2, TMPRSS2, and Furin expression was measured in small airway epithelium (SAE) and alveolar areas using computer-assisted Image-Pro Plus 7.0 software. IPF and LAM tissue was also immunostained for myofibroblast marker α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and growth factor transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1). Compared to HC, ACE2, TMPRSS2 and Furin expression were significantly upregulated in the SAE of IPF (p < 0.01) and LAM (p < 0.001) patients, and in the alveolar areas of IPF (p < 0.001) and LAM (p < 0.01). There was a significant positive correlation between smoking history and ACE2 expression in the IPF cohort for SAE (r = 0.812, p < 0.05) and alveolar areas (r = 0.941, p < 0.01). This, to our knowledge, is the first study to compare ACE2, TMPRSS2, and Furin expression in patients with IPF and LAM compared to HC. Descriptive images show that α-SMA and TGF-β1 increase in the IPF and LAM tissue. Our data suggests that patients with ILDs are at a higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 infection and post-COVID-19 interstitial pulmonary fibrosis. Growth factors secreted by the myofibroblasts, and surrounding tissue could further affect COVID-19 adhesion proteins/cofactors and post-COVID-19 interstitial pulmonary fibrosis. Smoking seems to be the major driving factor in patients with IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenying Lu
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia; (W.L.); (M.S.E.); (J.M.); (G.H.); (C.C.); (J.L.); (S.J.B.)
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Centre of Research Excellence (CRE) in Pulmonary Fibrosis, Respiratory Medicine and Sleep Unit, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Mathew Suji Eapen
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia; (W.L.); (M.S.E.); (J.M.); (G.H.); (C.C.); (J.L.); (S.J.B.)
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Centre of Research Excellence (CRE) in Pulmonary Fibrosis, Respiratory Medicine and Sleep Unit, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Gurpreet Kaur Singhera
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology & Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; (G.K.S.); (T.L.H.)
- UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - James Markos
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia; (W.L.); (M.S.E.); (J.M.); (G.H.); (C.C.); (J.L.); (S.J.B.)
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Launceston General Hospital, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia
| | - Greg Haug
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia; (W.L.); (M.S.E.); (J.M.); (G.H.); (C.C.); (J.L.); (S.J.B.)
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Launceston General Hospital, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia
| | - Collin Chia
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia; (W.L.); (M.S.E.); (J.M.); (G.H.); (C.C.); (J.L.); (S.J.B.)
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Launceston General Hospital, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia
| | - Josie Larby
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia; (W.L.); (M.S.E.); (J.M.); (G.H.); (C.C.); (J.L.); (S.J.B.)
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Launceston General Hospital, Launceston, TAS 7250, Australia
| | - Samuel James Brake
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia; (W.L.); (M.S.E.); (J.M.); (G.H.); (C.C.); (J.L.); (S.J.B.)
| | - Glen P. Westall
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia; (G.P.W.); (J.J.)
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Jade Jaffar
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia; (G.P.W.); (J.J.)
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Rama Satyanarayana Raju Kalidhindi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Professions, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA; (R.S.R.K.); (N.D.F.); (V.S.)
| | - Nimesha De Fonseka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Professions, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA; (R.S.R.K.); (N.D.F.); (V.S.)
| | - Venkatachalem Sathish
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Professions, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA; (R.S.R.K.); (N.D.F.); (V.S.)
| | - Tillie L. Hackett
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology & Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; (G.K.S.); (T.L.H.)
- UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Sukhwinder Singh Sohal
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia; (W.L.); (M.S.E.); (J.M.); (G.H.); (C.C.); (J.L.); (S.J.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-3-6324-5434
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Hossain MS, Tonmoy MIQ, Fariha A, Islam MS, Roy AS, Islam MN, Kar K, Alam MR, Rahaman MM. Prediction of the Effects of Variants and Differential Expression of Key Host Genes ACE2, TMPRSS2, and FURIN in SARS-CoV-2 Pathogenesis: An In Silico Approach. Bioinform Biol Insights 2021; 15:11779322211054684. [PMID: 34720581 PMCID: PMC8554545 DOI: 10.1177/11779322211054684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A new strain of the beta coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is solely responsible for the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Although several studies suggest that the spike protein of this virus interacts with the cell surface receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), and is subsequently cleaved by TMPRSS2 and FURIN to enter into the host cell, conclusive insight about the interaction pattern of the variants of these proteins is still lacking. Thus, in this study, we analyzed the functional conjugation among the spike protein, ACE2, TMPRSS2, and FURIN in viral pathogenesis as well as the effects of the mutations of the proteins through the implementation of several bioinformatics approaches. Analysis of the intermolecular interactions revealed that T27A (ACE2), G476S (receptor-binding domain [RBD] of the spike protein), C297T (TMPRSS2), and P812S (cleavage site for TMPRSS2) coding variants may render resistance in viral infection, whereas Q493L (RBD), S477I (RBD), P681R (cleavage site for FURIN), and P683W (cleavage site for FURIN) may lead to increase viral infection. Genotype-specific expression analysis predicted several genetic variants of ACE2 (rs2158082, rs2106806, rs4830971, and rs4830972), TMPRSS2 (rs458213, rs468444, rs4290734, and rs6517666), and FURIN (rs78164913 and rs79742014) that significantly alter their normal expression which might affect the viral spread. Furthermore, we also found that ACE2, TMPRSS2, and FURIN proteins are functionally co-related with each other, and several genes are highly co-expressed with them, which might be involved in viral pathogenesis. This study will thus help in future genomics and proteomics studies of SARS-CoV-2 and will provide an opportunity to understand the underlying molecular mechanism during SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Shahadat Hossain
- Department of Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | | | - Atqiya Fariha
- Department of Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Sajedul Islam
- Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, University of Barishal, Barishal, Bangladesh
| | - Arpita Singha Roy
- Department of Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Nur Islam
- Department of Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Kumkum Kar
- Department of Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Rahanur Alam
- Department of Food Technology & Nutrition Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
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Luo L, Li M, Su J, Yao X, Luo H. FURIN correlated with immune infiltration serves as a potential biomarker in SARS-CoV-2 infection-related lung adenocarcinoma. Clin Exp Med 2021; 22:371-384. [PMID: 34510311 PMCID: PMC8435175 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-021-00760-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
FURIN, as a proprotein convertase, has been found to be expressed in a variety of cancers and plays an important role in cancer. In addition, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) requires FURIN to enter human cells. However, the role of FURIN in lung adenocarcinoma remains unclear. And the expression of SARS-CoV-2 related gene in lung adenocarcinoma has not been clarified. Therefore, in order to explore the prognostic value and mechanism of FURIN in lung adenocarcinoma, we performed bioinformatics analysis with Oncomine, Tumor Immune Estimation Resource, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis, human protein atlas, UALCAN, PrognoScan, Kaplan–Meier plotter, cBioPortal and LinkedOmics databases. And then we used GSE44274 in the GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) database to analyze the expression of FURIN in LUAD patients who infected with SARS-CoV. FURIN was highly expressed in lung adenocarcinoma and was significantly associated with poor overall survival. FURIN expression was found to be correlated with six major permeable immune cells and with macrophage immune marker in LUAD patients. In addition, SARS-CoV-2 infection might affect the expression of FURIN. FURIN can be used as a promising biomarker for determining prognosis and immune infiltration in LUAD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianxiang Luo
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhanjiang), Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China. .,The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China. .,The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China.
| | - Manshan Li
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiating Su
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinyue Yao
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China
| | - Hui Luo
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhanjiang), Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China. .,The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China. .,The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China.
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Molecular mechanism of interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and host cells and interventional therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:233. [PMID: 34117216 PMCID: PMC8193598 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00653-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has resulted in an unprecedented setback for global economy and health. SARS-CoV-2 has an exceptionally high level of transmissibility and extremely broad tissue tropism. However, the underlying molecular mechanism responsible for sustaining this degree of virulence remains largely unexplored. In this article, we review the current knowledge and crucial information about how SARS-CoV-2 attaches on the surface of host cells through a variety of receptors, such as ACE2, neuropilin-1, AXL, and antibody-FcγR complexes. We further explain how its spike (S) protein undergoes conformational transition from prefusion to postfusion with the help of proteases like furin, TMPRSS2, and cathepsins. We then review the ongoing experimental studies and clinical trials of antibodies, peptides, or small-molecule compounds with anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity, and discuss how these antiviral therapies targeting host-pathogen interaction could potentially suppress viral attachment, reduce the exposure of fusion peptide to curtail membrane fusion and block the formation of six-helix bundle (6-HB) fusion core. Finally, the specter of rapidly emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants deserves a serious review of broad-spectrum drugs or vaccines for long-term prevention and control of COVID-19 in the future.
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Breikaa RM, Lilly B. The Notch Pathway: A Link Between COVID-19 Pathophysiology and Its Cardiovascular Complications. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:681948. [PMID: 34124207 PMCID: PMC8187573 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.681948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is associated with a large number of cardiovascular sequelae, including dysrhythmias, myocardial injury, myocarditis and thrombosis. The Notch pathway is one likely culprit leading to these complications due to its direct role in viral entry, inflammation and coagulation processes, all shown to be key parts of COVID-19 pathogenesis. This review highlights links between the pathophysiology of SARS-CoV2 and the Notch signaling pathway that serve as primary drivers of the cardiovascular complications seen in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randa M. Breikaa
- Center for Cardiovascular Research and The Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Brenda Lilly
- Center for Cardiovascular Research and The Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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Type-2 diabetes, a co-morbidity in Covid-19: does insulin signaling matter? Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:987-995. [PMID: 33666220 DOI: 10.1042/bst20201062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Type-2 Diabetes is associated with one of the co-morbidities due to SARS-Coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov2) infection. Clinical studies show out of control glucose levels in SARS-Cov2 infected patients with type-2 diabetes. There is no experimental evidence suggesting aberrant molecular pathway(s) that explains why SARS-Cov2 infected patients with type-2 diabetes have uncontrolled glucose homeostasis and are co-morbid. In this article, we have highlighted major proteins involved in SARS-Cov2 infection, like, ACE 2, proteases like, TMPRSS2, Furin and their connectivity to insulin signaling molecules like, PI3K, Akt, AMPK, MAPK, mTOR, those regulate glucose homeostasis and the possible outcome of that cross-talk. We also raised concerns about the effect of anti-SARS-Cov2 drugs on patients with type-2 diabetes with reference to insulin signaling and the outcome of their possible cross-talk. There are no studies to decipher the possibilities of these obvious cross-talks. The major objective of this article is to urge the scientific community to explore the possibility of determining whether derangement of insulin signaling could be one of the possible causes of the patients with type-2 diabetes being co-morbid due to SARS-Cov2 infection.
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Effect of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) on reproductive system. Stem Cell Res 2021; 52:102189. [PMID: 33582547 PMCID: PMC7858002 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2021.102189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in December 2019, it has rapidly spread across many countries and it has become a crucial global health concern. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 infection not only effect on respiratory system, but on reproductive system of human. However, there has been not any review described the transmission paths and effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on human reproductive system, systematically. In order to describe the transmission paths of SARS-CoV-2, effect on the male/female reproductive system of SARS-CoV-2 and some successful prevention measures. We would like to review effect of SARS-CoV-2 on reproductive system. To conclude, SARS-CoV-2 infection might damage to male reproductive system via ACE2 receptor mediating and male patients were reportedly slightly more affected than women by SARS-CoV-2 infections.
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13
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Mohanty A, Agnihotri S, Mehta A, Rawal S. COVID-19 and cancer: Sailing through the tides. Pathol Res Pract 2021; 221:153417. [PMID: 33857716 PMCID: PMC7997300 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2021.153417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 (coronavirus disease) pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 with its rapid expansion has led to extraordinary implications in our understanding of viral infections and their management globally. In this current scenario of unusual circumstances and public health emergency, the cancer care per se is facing unprecedented challenges. The peculiarity of the SARS-CoV-2 infections is still being uncovered as the pandemic spreads across the populations than showing signs of its curtailment. The review highlights the significance of idiosyncrasy of the SARS-Cov-2 infection especially putting forth the importance of immunosenescence, both in the COVID-19 specific immune response in the infected lungs of the elderly and in the cancer patients infected with SARS-CoV-2.The focus of the article is directed towards demystifying the unparalleled essence of a proprotein convertase, Furin in the biology of the SARS-Cov-2 infection and its role in facilitating viral transmission through expedited cellular entry into alveolar epithelial cells in COVID-19 infected cancer patients. The risk stratification of the cancer treatment and guidelines shaped up by national and international oncology societies in providing uncompromised patient care during the COVID-19 crisis have also been addressed. The global efforts towards vaccination in developing SARS CoV-2 immunity are also discussed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Mohanty
- Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, Delhi, India.
| | | | - Anurag Mehta
- Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, Delhi, India
| | - Sudhir Rawal
- Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, Delhi, India
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14
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Elliott A, Saul M, Zeng J, Marshall JL, Kim ES, Nagasaka M, Lenz HJ, Schwartzberg L, Spetzler D, Abraham J, Xiu J, Stafford P, Michael Korn W. Pan-cancer analysis of RNA expression of ANGIOTENSIN-I-CONVERTING ENZYME 2 reveals high variability and possible impact on COVID-19 clinical outcomes. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5639. [PMID: 33707526 PMCID: PMC7952699 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-84731-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with cancer demonstrate particularly poor outcomes from COVID-19. To provide information essential for understanding the biologic underpinnings of this association, we analyzed whole-transcriptome RNA expression data obtained from a large cohort of cancer patients to characterize expression of ACE2, TMPRSS2, and other proteases that are involved in viral attachment to and entry into target cells. We find substantial variability of expression of these factors across tumor types and identify subpopulations expressing ACE2 at very high levels. In some tumor types, especially in gastrointestinal cancers, expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 is highly correlated. Furthermore, we found infiltration with T-cell and natural killer (NK) cell infiltration to be particularly pronounced in ACE2-high tumors. These findings suggest that subsets of cancer patients exist with gene expression profiles that may be associated with heightened susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection, in whom malignant tumors function as viral reservoir and possibly promote the frequently detrimental hyper-immune response in patients infected with this virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Elliott
- Caris Life Sciences, 4610 South 44th Place, Phoenix, AZ, 85040, USA
| | - Michelle Saul
- Caris Life Sciences, 4610 South 44th Place, Phoenix, AZ, 85040, USA
| | - Jia Zeng
- Caris Life Sciences, 4610 South 44th Place, Phoenix, AZ, 85040, USA
| | - John L Marshall
- Ruesch Center for the Cure of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Edward S Kim
- Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Misako Nagasaka
- Department of Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Heinz-Josef Lenz
- University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lee Schwartzberg
- Medical Oncology, West Cancer Center, 9745 Wolf River Blvd, Germantown, TN, USA
| | - David Spetzler
- Caris Life Sciences, 4610 South 44th Place, Phoenix, AZ, 85040, USA
| | - Jim Abraham
- Caris Life Sciences, 4610 South 44th Place, Phoenix, AZ, 85040, USA
| | - Joanne Xiu
- Caris Life Sciences, 4610 South 44th Place, Phoenix, AZ, 85040, USA
| | - Phillip Stafford
- Caris Life Sciences, 4610 South 44th Place, Phoenix, AZ, 85040, USA
| | - W Michael Korn
- Caris Life Sciences, 4610 South 44th Place, Phoenix, AZ, 85040, USA.
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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15
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Graier T, Golob-Schwarzl N, Weger W, Benezeder T, Painsi C, Salmhofer W, Wolf P. Furin Expression in Patients With Psoriasis-A Patient Cohort Endangered to SARS-COV2? Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:624462. [PMID: 33644099 PMCID: PMC7902756 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.624462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: SARS-Cov2 has raised concerns among dermatologists regarding psoriasis and its respective treatments. Comorbidities, which induce the expression of the proprotease furin have been associated with severe course of COVID-19. Furin and angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) play a major role in viral host cell entry of SARS-Cov2. Objective: To evaluate mRNA expression of Furin and ACE2 from blood cells in psoriasis patients, and whether systemic or topical treatment reduces expression levels. Methods: This observational translational study analyzed blood samples from patients from a clinical trial and samples retrieved from the biobank of the Psoriasis Registry Austria (PsoRA). Furin and ACE2 expression levels were analyzed prior to as well as 3 and 12–24 months after start of biologic treatment with either ustekinumab or secukinumab. Additionally, the study analyzed expression levels prior to, 6 days after start of dithranol treatment and 4–6 weeks after end of dithranol treatment. Results: Furin mRNA expression was significantly increased at baseline in the biologic (4.9 ± 2.6 fold, p < 0.0001) and in the dithranol group (2.7 ± 1.4 fold, p < 0.001) compared to controls. There was a trend for arthritis patients to express more furin than patients with psoriatic skin involvement only (5.26 ± 2.30 vs. 3.48 ± 2.27, p = 0.078). Analyzing furin mRNA expression after treatment initiation with secukinumab or ustekinumab revealed a normalization of levels after 3 and 12 to 24 months. Similar findings were obtained for patients treated with dithranol, with significantly decreased expression levels 6 days after start of dithranol treatment and also at follow-up, (4–6 weeks after dithranol treatment had been terminated). ACE2 expression levels did not differ from controls at any timepoint, regardless of biologic or topical treatment. Conclusion: Significantly overexpressed levels of furin were observed in untreated patients, and, thus, these patients may be at risk for infection and a severe course of COVID-19. However, the data indicate that successful therapeutic intervention in psoriasis, by systemic biologic or topical treatment, can efficiently reduce furin levels in blood cells, possibly limiting the risk of psoriasis patients for a severe COVID-19 course. Clinical Trial Registration:ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT02752672.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Graier
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Nicole Golob-Schwarzl
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Weger
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Theresa Benezeder
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Clemens Painsi
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, State Hospital, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Salmhofer
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Peter Wolf
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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Zhong M, Lin B, Pathak JL, Gao H, Young AJ, Wang X, Liu C, Wu K, Liu M, Chen JM, Huang J, Lee LH, Qi CL, Ge L, Wang L. ACE2 and Furin Expressions in Oral Epithelial Cells Possibly Facilitate COVID-19 Infection via Respiratory and Fecal-Oral Routes. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:580796. [PMID: 33363183 PMCID: PMC7758442 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.580796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that mainly transfers from human to human via respiratory and gastrointestinal routes. The S-glycoprotein in the virus is the key factor for the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into the cell, which contains two functional domains: S1 is an angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor binding domain, and S2 is necessary for fusion of the coronavirus and cell membranes. Moreover, it has been reported that ACE2 is likely to be the receptor for SARS-CoV-2. In addition, mRNA level expression of Furin enzyme and ACE2 receptor had been reported in airway epithelia, cardiac tissue, and enteric canals. However, the expression patterns of ACE2 and Furin in different cell types of oral tissues are still unclear. Methods: In order to investigate the potential infective channel of the new coronavirus via the oropharyngeal cavity, we analyze the expression of ACE2 and Furin in human oral mucosa using the public single-cell sequence datasets. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry was performed in mucosal tissue from different oral anatomical sites to confirm the expression of ACE2 and Furin at the protein level. Results: The bioinformatics results indicated the differential expression of ACE2 and Furin on epithelial cells from different oral anatomical sites. Immunohistochemistry results revealed that both the ACE2-positive and Furin-positive cells in the target tissues were mainly positioned in the epithelial layers, partly expressed in fibroblasts, further confirming the bioinformatics results. Conclusions: Based on these findings, we speculated that SARS-CoV-2 could invade oral mucosal cells through two possible routes: binding to the ACE2 receptor and fusion with cell membrane activated by Furin protease. Our results indicated that oral mucosa tissues are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 that could facilitate COVID-19 infection via respiratory and fecal-oral routes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Zhong
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bingpeng Lin
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Janak L. Pathak
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Oral Disease, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongbin Gao
- Key Laboratory of Guangdong Laboratory Animals, Guangdong Laboratory Animals Monitoring Institute, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Xinhong Wang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Stomatology School of Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaibin Wu
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingxiao Liu
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian-ming Chen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiangyong Huang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Learn-Han Lee
- Novel Bacteria and Drug Discovery Research Group (NBDD), Microbiome and Bioresource Research Strength (MBRS), Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Cui-ling Qi
- School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Vascular Biology Research Institute, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Linhu Ge
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Oral Disease, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lijing Wang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Vascular Biology Research Institute, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
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The Controversy of Renin-Angiotensin-System Blocker Facilitation Versus Countering COVID-19 Infection. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2020; 76:397-406. [PMID: 32769760 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has produced serious turmoil world-wide. Lung injury causing acute respiratory distress syndrome seems to be a most dreaded complication occurring in ∼30%. Older patients with cardiovascular comorbidities and acute respiratory distress syndrome have an increased mortality. Although the precise mechanisms involved in the development of lung injury have not been fully elucidated, the role of the extended renin-angiotensin system seems to be pivotal. In this context, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), an angiotensin-converting enzyme homologue, has been recognized as a facilitator of viral entry into the host, albeit its involvement in other counter-regulatory effects, such as converting angiotensin (Ang) II into Ang 1-7 with its known protective actions. Thus, concern was raised that the use of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors by increasing ACE2 expression may enhance patient susceptibility to the COVID-19 virus. However, current data have appeased such concerns because there has been no clinical evidence of a harmful effect of these agents as based on observational studies. However, properly designed future studies will be needed to further confirm or refute current evidence. Furthermore, other pathways may also play important roles in COVID-19 transmission and pathogenesis; spike (S) protein proteases facilitate viral transmission by cleaving S protein that promotes viral entry into the host; neprilysin (NEP), a neutral endopeptidase known to cleave natriuretic peptides, degrades Ang I into Ang 1-7; NEP can also catabolize bradykinin and thus mitigate bradykinin's role in inflammation, whereas, in the same context, specific bradykinin inhibitors may also negate bradykinin's harmful effects. Based on these intricate mechanisms, various preventive and therapeutic strategies may be devised, such as upregulating ACE2 and/or using recombinant ACE2, and exploiting the NEP, bradykinin and serine protease pathways, in addition to anti-inflammatory and antiviral therapies. These issues are herein reviewed, available studies are tabulated and pathogenetic mechanisms are pictorially illustrated.
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18
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Deng Z, Chen J, Wang T. Bibliometric and Visualization Analysis of Human Coronaviruses: Prospects and Implications for COVID-19 Research. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:581404. [PMID: 33072630 PMCID: PMC7538618 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.581404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Human coronaviruses, which can cause a range of infectious diseases, have been studied for nearly 60 years. The field has gained renewed interest from researchers around the world due to the COVID-19 outbreak in late 2019. Despite a large amount of research, little is known about the knowledge structure and developing trends of this topic. Here, we apply bibliometric analysis along with visualization tools to analyze 15,207 publications related to human coronavirus from the Scopus database, using indicators on publication and citation, journal, country or territory, affiliation and international cooperation, author, and keyword co-occurrence cluster. The results show that research on human coronavirus is dominated by SARS-CoV. Although there have been many publications, only 626 publications (4.1% of total) have more than 100 citations. The top 20 journals with most publications account for 20.6% of total publications and 41% of total citations. In addition to the United States and some European countries, many Asian and African countries are involved in this research, with China holding an important position in this area. Leading researchers from various fields of human coronavirus research are listed to facilitate collaboration and promote effective disease prevention and control. The keywords co-occurrence analysis reveals that the research focus on virology, public health, drugs and other hotspot fields, and uncovers changes in the direction of coronavirus research. The research map on human coronavirus obtained by our analysis are expected to help researchers to efficiently and effectively explore COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqin Deng
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Junsheng Chen
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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19
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Drak Alsibai K, Michaud C, Taquet A, Demar M, Blaizot R. Histopathology of cutaneous COVID-19 lesion: possible SARS-CoV-2 cytopathogenic effect. Pathology 2020; 52:816-818. [PMID: 32863022 PMCID: PMC7420965 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2020.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kinan Drak Alsibai
- Department of Pathology, Cayenne Hospital Center Andree Rosemon, Cayenne, French Guiana; Center of Biological Resources (CRB Amazonie), Cayenne Hospital Center Andree Rosemon, Cayenne, French Guiana.
| | - Celine Michaud
- Health Centres for Remote Areas, Cayenne Hospital Center Andree Rosemon, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Alex Taquet
- Health Centres for Remote Areas, Cayenne Hospital Center Andree Rosemon, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Magalie Demar
- EA 3593 Ecosystèmes Amazoniens et Pathologies Tropicales, University of French Guiana, Cayenne, French Guiana; Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, Cayenne Hospital Center Andree Rosemon, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Romain Blaizot
- EA 3593 Ecosystèmes Amazoniens et Pathologies Tropicales, University of French Guiana, Cayenne, French Guiana; Department of Dermatology, Cayenne Hospital Center Andree Rosemon, Cayenne, French Guiana
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20
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Torre‐Fuentes L, Matías‐Guiu J, Hernández‐Lorenzo L, Montero‐Escribano P, Pytel V, Porta‐Etessam J, Gómez‐Pinedo U, Matías‐Guiu JA. ACE2, TMPRSS2, and Furin variants and SARS-CoV-2 infection in Madrid, Spain. J Med Virol 2020; 93:863-869. [PMID: 32691890 PMCID: PMC7404937 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.26319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
It has been suggested that some individuals may present genetic susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection, with particular research interest in variants of the ACE2 and TMPRSS2 genes, involved in viral penetration into cells, in different populations and geographic regions, although insufficient information is currently available. This study addresses the apparently reasonable hypothesis that variants of these genes may modulate viral infectivity, making some individuals more vulnerable than others. Through whole-exome sequencing, the frequency of exonic variants of the ACE2, TMPRSS2, and Furin genes was analyzed in relation to presence or absence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in a familial multiple sclerosis cohort including 120 individuals from Madrid. The ACE2 gene showed a low level of polymorphism, and none variant was significantly associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. These variants have previously been detected in Italy. While TMPRSS2 is highly polymorphic, the variants found do not coincide with those described in other studies, with the exception of rs75603675, which may be associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The synonymous variants rs61735792 and rs61735794 showed a significant association with infection. Despite the limited number of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, some variants, especially in TMPRSS2, may be associated with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Torre‐Fuentes
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Jorge Matías‐Guiu
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Laura Hernández‐Lorenzo
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Paloma Montero‐Escribano
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Vanesa Pytel
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Jesús Porta‐Etessam
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Ulises Gómez‐Pinedo
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Jordi A. Matías‐Guiu
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
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