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Lin N, Erdos T, Louie C, Desai R, Lin N, Ayzenberg G, Venketaraman V. The Role of Glutathione in the Management of Cell-Mediated Immune Responses in Individuals with HIV. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2952. [PMID: 38474196 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a major cause of death worldwide. Without appropriate antiretroviral therapy, the infection can develop into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). AIDS leads to the dysregulation of cell-mediated immunity resulting in increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and excessive amounts of inflammatory cytokines. HIV-positive individuals also demonstrate diminished glutathione (GSH) levels which allows for increased viral replication and increased pro-inflammatory cytokine release, further contributing to the high rates of mortality seen in patients with HIV. Adequate GSH supplementation has reduced inflammation and slowed the decline of CD4+ T cell counts in HIV-positive individuals. We aim to review the current literature regarding the role of GSH in cell-mediated immune responses in individuals with HIV- and AIDS-defining illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Lin
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
| | - Thomas Erdos
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
| | - Carson Louie
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
| | - Raina Desai
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
| | - Naomi Lin
- Creighton University School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE 68178, USA
| | - Gregory Ayzenberg
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
| | - Vishwanath Venketaraman
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
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2
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Kesika P, Thangaleela S, Sisubalan N, Radha A, Sivamaruthi BS, Chaiyasut C. The Role of the Nuclear Factor-Kappa B (NF-κB) Pathway in SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Pathogens 2024; 13:164. [PMID: 38392902 PMCID: PMC10892479 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13020164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is a global health threat caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and is associated with a significant increase in morbidity and mortality. The present review discusses nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation and its potential therapeutical role in treating COVID-19. COVID-19 pathogenesis, the major NF-κB pathways, and the involvement of NF-κB in SARS-CoV-2 have been detailed. Specifically, NF-κB activation and its impact on managing COVID-19 has been discussed. As a central player in the immune and inflammatory responses, modulating NF-κB activation could offer a strategic avenue for managing SARS-CoV-2 infection. Understanding the NF-κB pathway's role could aid in developing treatments against SARS-CoV-2. Further investigations into the intricacies of NF-κB activation are required to reveal effective therapeutic strategies for managing and combating the SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Periyanaina Kesika
- Office of Research Administration, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (P.K.); (N.S.)
- Innovation Center for Holistic Health, Nutraceuticals, and Cosmeceuticals, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Subramanian Thangaleela
- Institute of Biotechnology, Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai 602105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Natarajan Sisubalan
- Office of Research Administration, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (P.K.); (N.S.)
- Innovation Center for Holistic Health, Nutraceuticals, and Cosmeceuticals, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Arumugam Radha
- Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Chaiyavat Chaiyasut
- Innovation Center for Holistic Health, Nutraceuticals, and Cosmeceuticals, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
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3
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Khramtsov YV, Ulasov AV, Lupanova TN, Slastnikova TA, Rosenkranz AA, Bunin ES, Georgiev GP, Sobolev AS. Intracellular Degradation of SARS-CoV-2 N-Protein Caused by Modular Nanotransporters Containing Anti-N-Protein Monobody and a Sequence That Recruits the Keap1 E3 Ligase. Pharmaceutics 2023; 16:4. [PMID: 38276482 PMCID: PMC10818351 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The proper viral assembly relies on both nucleic acids and structural viral proteins. Thus a biologically active agent that provides the degradation of one of these key proteins and/or destroys the viral factory could suppress viral replication efficiently. The nucleocapsid protein (N-protein) is a key protein for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. As a bioactive agent, we offer a modular nanotransporter (MNT) developed by us, which, in addition to an antibody mimetic to the N-protein, contains an amino acid sequence for the attraction of the Keap1 E3 ubiquitin ligase. This should lead to the subsequent degradation of the N-protein. We have shown that the functional properties of modules within the MNT permit its internalization into target cells, endosome escape into the cytosol, and binding to the N-protein. Using flow cytometry and western blotting, we demonstrated significant degradation of N-protein when A549 and A431 cells transfected with a plasmid coding for N-protein were incubated with the developed MNTs. The proposed MNTs open up a new approach for the treatment of viral diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri V. Khramtsov
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Alexey V. Ulasov
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Tatiana N. Lupanova
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Tatiana A. Slastnikova
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Andrey A. Rosenkranz
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 1-12 Leninskie Gory St., 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Egor S. Bunin
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 1-12 Leninskie Gory St., 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Georgii P. Georgiev
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
| | - Alexander S. Sobolev
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Intracellular Transport, Institute of Gene Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilov St., 119334 Moscow, Russia; (Y.V.K.); (A.V.U.); (T.N.L.); (T.A.S.); (A.A.R.); (E.S.B.); (G.P.G.)
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 1-12 Leninskie Gory St., 119234 Moscow, Russia
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4
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Hasan A, Rahim R, Nakayama EE, Uno K, Hasan N, Rahman M, Shioda T. Enhancement of IL-6 Production Induced by SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein and Bangladeshi COVID-19 Patients' Sera. Viruses 2023; 15:2018. [PMID: 37896795 PMCID: PMC10611338 DOI: 10.3390/v15102018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory tract infection caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 that can have detrimental effects on multiple organs and accelerate patient mortality. This study, which encompassed 130 confirmed COVID-19 patients who were assessed at three different time points (i.e., 3, 7, and 12 days) after the onset of symptoms, investigated interleukin-6 (IL-6) enhancement induced by a viral nucleocapsid (N) protein from a myeloid cell line. Disease severity was categorized as mild, moderate, or severe. The severe cases were characterized as having significant elevations in serum IL-6, C-reactive protein, D-dimer, ferritin, creatinine, leukocytes, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, and albumin levels compared with mild and moderate cases. To evaluate IL-6-inducing activity, heat-inactivated sera from these patients were incubated with and without the N protein. The findings showed a progressive increase in IL-6 production in severe cases upon N protein stimulation. There was a strong correlation between anti-N antibodies and levels of IL-6 secreted by myeloid cells in the presence of N protein and sera, indicating the crucial role that the anti-N antibody plays in inducing IL-6 production. Uncontrolled IL-6 production played a pivotal role in disease pathogenesis, exacerbating both disease severity and mortality. Efficiently targeting the N protein could potentially be employed as a therapeutic strategy for regulating the immune response and alleviating inflammation in severe cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abu Hasan
- Evercare Hospital Dhaka, Plot-81, Block-E, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh; (A.H.); (R.R.); (N.H.)
| | - Rummana Rahim
- Evercare Hospital Dhaka, Plot-81, Block-E, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh; (A.H.); (R.R.); (N.H.)
| | - Emi E. Nakayama
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita 565-0781, Japan;
| | - Kazuko Uno
- IFN & Host-Defense Research Laboratory, Louis Pasteur Center for Medical Research, Kyoto 606-8225, Japan;
| | - Nazmul Hasan
- Evercare Hospital Dhaka, Plot-81, Block-E, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh; (A.H.); (R.R.); (N.H.)
| | - Mizanur Rahman
- Evercare Hospital Dhaka, Plot-81, Block-E, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh; (A.H.); (R.R.); (N.H.)
| | - Tatsuo Shioda
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita 565-0781, Japan;
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5
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Wells EW, Parker MT. Regulating Select Agent Chimeras: Defining the Problem(s) Through the Lens of SARS-CoV-1/SARS-CoV-2 Chimeric Viruses. Health Secur 2023; 21:392-406. [PMID: 37703547 DOI: 10.1089/hs.2023.0008] [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: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In late 2021, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) posted an interim final rule (86 FR 64075) to the federal register regulating the possession, use, and transfer of SARS-CoV-1/SARS-CoV-2 chimeric viruses. In doing so, the CDC provided the reasoning that viral chimeras combining the transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 with the pathogenicity and lethality of SARS-CoV-1 pose a significant risk to public health and should thus be placed on the select agents and toxins list. However, 86 FR 64075 lacked clarity in its definitions and scope, some of which the CDC addressed in response to public comments in the final rule, 88 FR 13322, in early 2023. To evaluate these regulatory actions, we reviewed the existing select agent regulations to understand the landscape of chimeric virus regulation. Based on our findings, we first present clear definitions for the terms "chimeric virus," "viral chimera," and "virulence factor" and provide a list of SARS-CoV-1 virulence factors in an effort to aid researchers and federal rulemaking for these agents moving forward. We then provide suggestions for a combination of similarity and functional characteristic cutoffs that the government could use to enable researchers to distinguish between regulated and nonregulated chimeras. Finally, we discuss current select agent regulations and their overlaps with 86 FR 64075 and 88 FR 13322 and make suggestions for how to address chimera concerns within and/or without these regulations. Collectively, we believe that our findings fill important gaps in current federal regulations and provide forward-looking philosophical and practical analysis that can guide future decisionmaking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth W Wells
- Elizabeth W. Wells is a Student, Department of Biology, Georgetown College of Arts & Sciences, Georgetown University, Washington, DC
| | - Michael T Parker
- Michael T. Parker, PhD, is Assistant Dean, Georgetown College of Arts & Sciences, Georgetown University, Washington, DC
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6
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Gasparello J, Marzaro G, Papi C, Gentili V, Rizzo R, Zurlo M, Scapoli C, Finotti A, Gambari R. Effects of Sulforaphane on SARS‑CoV‑2 infection and NF‑κB dependent expression of genes involved in the COVID‑19 'cytokine storm'. Int J Mol Med 2023; 52:76. [PMID: 37477130 PMCID: PMC10555481 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2023.5279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Since its spread at the beginning of 2020, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) pandemic represents one of the major health problems. Despite the approval, testing, and worldwide distribution of anti‑severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) vaccines, the development of specific antiviral agents targeting the SARS‑CoV‑2 life cycle with high efficiency, and/or interfering with the associated 'cytokine storm', is highly required. A recent study, conducted by the authors' group indicated that sulforaphane (SFN) inhibits the expression of IL‑6 and IL‑8 genes induced by the treatment of IB3‑1 bronchial cells with a recombinant spike protein of SARS‑CoV‑2. In the present study, the ability of SFN to inhibit SARS‑CoV‑2 replication and the expression of pro‑inflammatory genes encoding proteins of the COVID‑19 'cytokine storm' was evaluated. SARS‑CoV‑2 replication was assessed in bronchial epithelial Calu‑3 cells. Moreover, SARS‑CoV‑2 replication and expression of pro‑inflammatory genes was evaluated by reverse transcription quantitative droplet digital PCR. The effects on the expression levels of NF‑κB were assessed by western blotting. Molecular dynamics simulations of NF‑kB/SFN interactions were conducted with Gromacs 2021.1 software under the Martini 2 CG force field. Computational studies indicated that i) SFN was stably bound with the NF‑κB monomer; ii) a ternary NF‑kB/SFN/DNA complex was formed; iii) the SFN interacted with both the protein and the nucleic acid molecules modifying the binding mode of the latter, and impairing the full interaction between the NF‑κB protein and the DNA molecule. This finally stabilized the inactive complex. Molecular studies demonstrated that SFN i) inhibits the SARS‑CoV‑2 replication in infected Calu‑3 cells, decreasing the production of the N‑protein coding RNA sequences, ii) decreased NF‑κB content in SARS‑CoV‑2 infected cells and inhibited the expression of NF‑kB‑dependent IL‑1β and IL‑8 gene expression. The data obtained in the present study demonstrated inhibitory effects of SFN on the SARS‑CoV‑2 life cycle and on the expression levels of the pro‑inflammatory genes, sustaining the possible use of SFN in the management of patients with COVID‑19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, I-44121 Ferrara
| | - Giovanni Marzaro
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, I-35131 Padova
| | - Chiara Papi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, I-44121 Ferrara
| | - Valentina Gentili
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, I-44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, I-44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Matteo Zurlo
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, I-44121 Ferrara
| | - Chiara Scapoli
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, I-44121 Ferrara
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, I-44121 Ferrara
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, I-44121 Ferrara
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Yang G, Yue Z, Pan P, Li Y. In Memory of the Virologist Jianguo Wu, 1957-2022. Viruses 2023; 15:1754. [PMID: 37632095 PMCID: PMC10457867 DOI: 10.3390/v15081754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
It is with deep sorrow that we mourn the passing of the virologist Professor Jianguo Wu [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Yang
- Foshan Institute of Medical Microbiology, Foshan 528315, China
| | - Zhaoyang Yue
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Laboratory of Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control (Jinan University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Pan Pan
- Laboratory of Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control (Jinan University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510632, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yongkui Li
- Foshan Institute of Medical Microbiology, Foshan 528315, China
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Laboratory of Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control (Jinan University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510632, China
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8
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Chen X. A Tribute to Professor Jianguo Wu. Viruses 2023; 15:1720. [PMID: 37632062 PMCID: PMC10457838 DOI: 10.3390/v15081720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been a couple of months since Professor Jianguo Wu left us [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Virology, Key Laboratory of Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control, Institute of Medical Microbiology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
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9
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Weiss CM, Liu H, Ball EE, Hoover AR, Wong TS, Wong CF, Lam S, Hode T, Keel MK, Levenson RM, Chen WR, Coffey LL. N-dihydrogalactochitosan reduces mortality in a lethal mouse model of SARS-CoV-2. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289139. [PMID: 37552656 PMCID: PMC10409267 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid emergence and global dissemination of SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19 continues to cause an unprecedented global health burden resulting in nearly 7 million deaths. While multiple vaccine countermeasures have been approved for emergency use, additional treatments are still needed due to sluggish vaccine rollout, vaccine hesitancy, and inefficient vaccine-mediated protection. Immunoadjuvant compounds delivered intranasally can guide non-specific innate immune responses during the critical early stages of viral replication, reducing morbidity and mortality. N-dihydrogalactochitosan (GC) is a novel mucoadhesive immunostimulatory polymer of β-0-4-linked N-acetylglucosamine that is solubilized by the conjugation of galactose glycans with current applications as a cancer immunotherapeutic. We tested GC as a potential countermeasure for COVID-19. GC was well-tolerated and did not produce histopathologic lesions in the mouse lung. GC administered intranasally before and after SARS-CoV-2 exposure diminished morbidity and mortality in humanized ACE2 receptor expressing mice by up to 75% and reduced infectious virus levels in the upper airway. Fluorescent labeling of GC shows that it is confined to the lumen or superficial mucosa of the nasal cavity, without involvement of adjacent or deeper tissues. Our findings demonstrate a new application for soluble immunoadjuvants such as GC for preventing disease associated with SARS-CoV-2 and may be particularly attractive to persons who are needle-averse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M. Weiss
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Hongwei Liu
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Erin E. Ball
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Ashley R. Hoover
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Talia S. Wong
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Chun Fung Wong
- Immunophotonics, Inc., Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Samuel Lam
- Immunophotonics, Inc., Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Tomas Hode
- Immunophotonics, Inc., Saint Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - M. Kevin Keel
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Richard M. Levenson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Wei R. Chen
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Lark L. Coffey
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
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10
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Zayabaatar E, Tang NMT, Pham MT. Electrogenic Staphylococcus epidermidis colonizes nasal cavities and alleviates IL-6 progression induced by the SARS2-CoV nucleocapsid protein. J Appl Microbiol 2023; 134:lxad179. [PMID: 37558389 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxad179] [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: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
AIM Certain probiotic bacteria have been shown to possess an immunomodulatory effect and a protective effect on influenza infections. Using the Staphylococcus epidermidis K1 colonized mice model, we assessed the effect of nasal administration of glycerol or flavin mononucleotide (FMN) on the production of interleukin (IL)-6 mediated by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS2-CoV) nucleocapsid protein (NPP). METHODS AND RESULTS FMN, one of the key electron donors for the generation of electricity facilitated by S. epidermidis ATCC 12228, was detected in the glycerol fermentation medium. Compared to the S. epidermidis ATCC 12228, the S. epidermidis K1 isolate showed significant expression of the electron transfer genes, including pyruvate dehydrogenase (pdh), riboflavin kinase (rk), 1,4-dihydroxy-2-naphthoate octaprenyltransferase (menA), and type II NADH quinone oxidoreductase (ndh2). Institute of cancer research (ICR) mice were intranasally administered with S. epidermidis K1 with or without pretreatment with riboflavin kinase inhibitors, then nasally treated with glycerol or FMN before inoculating the NPP. Furthermore, J774A.1 macrophages were exposed to NPP serum and then treated with NPP of SARS2-CoV. The IL-6 levels in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of mice and macrophages were quantified using a mouse IL-6 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. CONCLUSIONS Here, we report that nasal administration of NPP strongly elevates IL-6 levels in both BALF and J774A.1 macrophages. It is worth noting that NPP-neutralizing antibodies can decrease IL-6 levels in macrophages. The nasal administration of glycerol or FMN to S. epidermidis K1-colonized mice results in a reduction of NPP-induced IL-6 production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enkhbat Zayabaatar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan 320317, Taiwan
| | - Nguyen Mai Trinh Tang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan 320317, Taiwan
| | - Minh Tan Pham
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
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11
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Salehi Z, Motlagh Ghoochani BFN, Hasani Nourian Y, Jamalkandi SA, Ghanei M. The controversial effect of smoking and nicotine in SARS-CoV-2 infection. ALLERGY, ASTHMA, AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CANADIAN SOCIETY OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 19:49. [PMID: 37264452 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-023-00797-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The effects of nicotine and cigarette smoke in many diseases, notably COVID-19 infection, are being debated more frequently. The current basic data for COVID-19 is increasing and indicating the higher risk of COVID-19 infections in smokers due to the overexpression of corresponding host receptors to viral entry. However, current multi-national epidemiological reports indicate a lower incidence of COVID-19 disease in smokers. Current data indicates that smokers are more susceptible to some diseases and more protective of some other. Interestingly, nicotine is also reported to play a dual role, being both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory. In the present study, we tried to investigate the effect of pure nicotine on various cells involved in COVID-19 infection. We followed an organ-based systematic approach to decipher the effect of nicotine in damaged organs corresponding to COVID-19 pathogenesis (12 related diseases). Considering that the effects of nicotine and cigarette smoke are different from each other, it is necessary to be careful in generalizing the effects of nicotine and cigarette to each other in the conducted researches. The generalization and the undifferentiation of nicotine from smoke is a significant bias. Moreover, different doses of nicotine stimulate different effects (dose-dependent response). In addition to further assessing the role of nicotine in COVID-19 infection and any other cases, a clever assessment of underlying diseases should also be considered to achieve a guideline for health providers and a personalized approach to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Salehi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Chemical Injuries Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Yazdan Hasani Nourian
- Chemical Injuries Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sadegh Azimzadeh Jamalkandi
- Chemical Injuries Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mostafa Ghanei
- Chemical Injuries Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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12
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Aktar S, Amin S. SARS-CoV-2 mediated dysregulation in cell signaling events drives the severity of COVID-19. Virus Res 2023; 323:198962. [PMID: 36209917 PMCID: PMC9536871 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2022.198962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
A balance in immune response against an unfamiliar pathogen is crucial to eliminate the infection. A cascade of cell signaling events is immediately activated upon sensing the presence of SARS-CoV-2 by cellular toll like receptors in a natural host response manner against the invading virus. The ultimate aim of such innate immune signaling pathways is to provide a required level of protection to our bodies by interfering with the invader. However, if there is any loss in such balance, an impairment in immune system emerge that fails to control the regulated transcription and translation of signaling components. Consequently, excessive level of proinflammatory mediators release into the circulatory systems that ultimately cause "cytokine storm" and COVID-19 pathological syndromes. The limited production of interferons (IFNs), while excessive yield of pro-inflammatory cytokines followed by SARS-CoV-2 infection suggests an abnormal cell signaling event and explains the reasons of increased immunopathology and severity in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Aktar
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali 3814, Bangladesh.
| | - Saiful Amin
- Chittagong Medical University, Chattogram, Bangladesh
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13
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Lodi G, Gentili V, Casciano F, Romani A, Zauli G, Secchiero P, Zauli E, Simioni C, Beltrami S, Fernandez M, Rizzo R, Voltan R. Cell cycle block by p53 activation reduces SARS-CoV-2 release in infected alveolar basal epithelial A549-hACE2 cells. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1018761. [PMID: 36582523 PMCID: PMC9792496 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1018761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV viruses have been shown to downregulate cellular events that control antiviral defenses. They adopt several strategies to silence p53, key molecule for cell homeostasis and immune control, indicating that p53 has a central role in controlling their proliferation in the host. Specific actions are the stabilization of its inhibitor, MDM2, and the interference with its transcriptional activity. The aim of our work was to evaluate a new approach against SARS-CoV-2 by using MDM2 inhibitors to raise p53 levels and activate p53-dependent pathways, therefore leading to cell cycle inhibition. Experimental setting was performed in the alveolar basal epithelial cell line A549-hACE2, expressing high level of ACE2 receptor, to allow virus entry, as well as p53 wild-type. Cells were treated with several concentrations of Nutlin-3 or RG-7112, two known MDM2 inhibitors, for the instauration of a cell cycle block steady-state condition before and during SARS-CoV-2 infection, and for the evaluation of p53 activation and impact on virus release and related innate immune events. The results indicated an efficient cell cycle block with inhibition of the virion release and a significant inhibition of IL-6, NF-kB and IFN-λ expression. These data suggest that p53 is an efficient target for new therapies against the virus and that MDM2 inhibitors deserve to be further investigated in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Lodi
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Gentili
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabio Casciano
- Department of Translational Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy,Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Arianna Romani
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giorgio Zauli
- Research Department, King Khaled Eye Specialistic Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Paola Secchiero
- Department of Translational Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Zauli
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carolina Simioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Beltrami
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mercedes Fernandez
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy,*Correspondence: Roberta Rizzo, ; Rebecca Voltan,
| | - Rebecca Voltan
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy,*Correspondence: Roberta Rizzo, ; Rebecca Voltan,
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14
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Malekinejad Z, Baghbanzadeh A, Nakhlband A, Baradaran B, Jafari S, Bagheri Y, Raei F, Montazersaheb S, Farahzadi R. Recent clinical findings on the role of kinase inhibitors in COVID-19 management. Life Sci 2022; 306:120809. [PMID: 35841979 PMCID: PMC9278000 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120809] [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: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The highly pathogenic, novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak has emerged as a once-in-a-century pandemic with poor consequences, urgently calling for new therapeutics, cures, and supportive interventions. It has already affected over 250 million people worldwide; thereby, there is a need for novel therapies to alleviate the related complications. There is a paradigm shift in developing drugs and clinical practices to combat COVID-19. Several clinical trials have been performed or are testing diverse pharmacological interventions to alleviate viral load and complications such as cytokine release storm (CRS). Kinase-inhibitors have appeared as potential antiviral agents for COVID-19 patients due to their efficacy against CRS. Combination of kinase inhibitors with other therapies can achieve more efficacy against COVID-19. Based on the pre-clinical trials, kinase inhibitors such as Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) inhibitors, Brutton's tyrosin kinase (BTK) inhibitors, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38 MAPK) inhibitors, Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3) inhibitors can be a promising strategy against COVID-19. Kinase inhibitors possess crucial pharmacological properties for a successful re-purposing in terms of dual anti-inflammatory and anti-viral effects. This review will address the current clinical evidence and the newest discovery regarding the application of kinase inhibitors in COVID-19. An outlook on ongoing clinical trials (clinicaltrials.gov) and unpublished data is also presented here. Besides, Kinase inhibitors' function on COVID-19-mediated CRS is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Malekinejad
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Baghbanzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ailar Nakhlband
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sevda Jafari
- Tuberculosis and Lung Disease Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yasin Bagheri
- Kidney Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Faezeh Raei
- Departement of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soheila Montazersaheb
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Raheleh Farahzadi
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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15
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Hafez W, Abdelrahman A. Factors Influencing Disease Stability and Response to Tocilizumab Therapy in Severe COVID-19: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11081078. [PMID: 36009949 PMCID: PMC9405062 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11081078] [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: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The efficacy of tocilizumab in COVID-19 has been doubted. The study aimed to investigate factors affecting disease stability and response to tocilizumab among severe COVID-19 patients. (2) Methods: This was a cohort study of 70 severe COVID-19 patients at NMC Royal Hospital, UAE, from April to June 2020. (3) Results: Elderly patients and those with cardiovascular comorbidities had a higher risk of unstable COVID-19 (p = 0.025). Regarding tocilizumab therapy timing, compared to the critical group receiving tocilizumab, the unstable severe patients receiving tocilizumab had a significantly higher rate of improvement (86%). In contrast, the late critical subgroup showed a significantly increased mortality rate (52.9%). The risk for secondary infection and adverse events following tocilizumab was higher in the late critical group than in the unstable severe and early critical groups (p = 0.024 and p = 0.006, respectively). Therapeutic doses of anticoagulation and high-dose vitamin D were correlated with better outcomes than the prophylactic dose and the treatment dose of vitamin D (p < 0.001 and p = 0.07, respectively). (4) Conclusions: elderly patients and those with cardiovascular disease developed unstable COVID-19. Tocilizumab is a potentially effective choice against severe and critical COVID-19. Early tocilizumab administration combined with therapeutic dose anticoagulation and high vitamin D doses could improve the patients’ outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wael Hafez
- NMC Royal Hospital, Abu Dhabi P.O. BOX 764659, United Arab Emirates
- The Medical Research Division, Department of Internal Medicine, The National Research Centre, Cairo 12622, Egypt
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +971-2203-5000
| | - Ahmed Abdelrahman
- NMC Royal Hospital, Abu Dhabi P.O. BOX 764659, United Arab Emirates
- Internal Medicine Department, Zagazig School of Medicine, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
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16
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Chen L, Guan WJ, Qiu ZE, Xu JB, Bai X, Hou XC, Sun J, Qu S, Huang ZX, Lei TL, Huang ZY, Zhao J, Zhu YX, Ye KN, Lun ZR, Zhou WL, Zhong NS, Zhang YL. SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein triggers hyperinflammation via protein-protein interaction-mediated intracellular Cl - accumulation in respiratory epithelium. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:255. [PMID: 35896532 PMCID: PMC9328007 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01048-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the culprit pathogen of COVID-19, elicits prominent immune responses and cytokine storms. Intracellular Cl− is a crucial regulator of host defense, whereas the role of Cl− signaling pathway in modulating pulmonary inflammation associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection remains unclear. By using human respiratory epithelial cell lines, primary cultured human airway epithelial cells, and murine models of viral structural protein stimulation and SARS-CoV-2 direct challenge, we demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N) protein could interact with Smad3, which downregulated cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) expression via microRNA-145. The intracellular Cl− concentration ([Cl−]i) was raised, resulting in phosphorylation of serum glucocorticoid regulated kinase 1 (SGK1) and robust inflammatory responses. Inhibition or knockout of SGK1 abrogated the N protein-elicited airway inflammation. Moreover, N protein promoted a sustained elevation of [Cl−]i by depleting intracellular cAMP via upregulation of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4). Rolipram, a selective PDE4 inhibitor, countered airway inflammation by reducing [Cl−]i. Our findings suggested that Cl− acted as the crucial pathological second messenger mediating the inflammatory responses after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Targeting the Cl− signaling pathway might be a novel therapeutic strategy for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Jie Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Thoracic Surgery, Guangzhou Institute for Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuo-Er Qiu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Bang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xu Bai
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Chun Hou
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Su Qu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ze-Xin Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tian-Lun Lei
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zi-Yang Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jincun Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun-Xin Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ke-Nan Ye
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhao-Rong Lun
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Liang Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Nan-Shan Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China. .,Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yi-Lin Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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17
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Lim S. Association between obesity and COVID-19. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 2022. [DOI: 10.5124/jkma.2022.65.7.423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Since December 2019, most countries have struggled with the novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). During the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, weight gain became prevalent because the preventive measures against the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection resulted in decreased physical activity and increased consumption of unhealthy food among the general public.Current Concepts: Several mechanisms have been proposed for the association between obesity and COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 infection aggravates inflammation and hypoxia in obese people, which can lead to severe COVID-19 disease. COVID-19 affects the immune system, resulting in various complications. Several cytokines, including interleukin-6, are integral to the progression of COVID-19. Thus, COVID-19-associated inflammation and immune dysfunction predispose patients to the complications of obesity, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus.Discussion and Conclusion: Obese patients are commonly prescribed antidiabetic agents, blood pressure lowering medications, and lipid-lowering medications such as statins. The routine intake of these drugs is a protective factor against all-cause mortality. During the COVID-19 pandemic, preventive measures, such as minimizing team sports and closing public exercise facilities, might have contributed to the weight gain in obese individuals. Thus, an active lifestyle with regular home exercise and a healthy diet should be advised for obese patients.
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18
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Chlorpromazine, a Clinically Approved Drug, Inhibits SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid-Mediated Induction of IL-6 in Human Monocytes. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27123651. [PMID: 35744777 PMCID: PMC9228867 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27123651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the rapidly spreading SARS-CoV-2 virus, led to the unprecedented mobilization of scientists, resulting in the rapid development of vaccines and potential pharmaceuticals. Although COVID-19 symptoms are moderately severe in most people, in some cases the disease can result in pneumonia and acute respiratory failure as well as can be fatal. The severe course of COVID-19 is associated with a hyperinflammatory state called a cytokine storm. One of the key cytokines creating a proinflammatory environment is IL-6, which is secreted mainly by monocytes and macrophages. Therefore, this cytokine has become a target for some therapies that inhibit its biological action; however, these therapies are expensive, and their availability is limited in poorer countries. Thus, new cheaper drugs that can overcome the severe infections of COVID-19 are needed. Here, we show that chlorpromazine inhibits the expression and secretion of IL-6 by monocytes activated by SARS-CoV-2 virus nucleocapsid protein and affects the activity of NF-κB and MEK/ERK signaling. Our results, including others, indicate that chlorpromazine, which has been used for several decades as a neuroleptic, exerts antiviral and immunomodulatory activity, is safe and inexpensive, and might be a desirable drug to support the therapy of patients with COVID-19.
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19
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Milani D, Caruso L, Zauli E, Al Owaifeer AM, Secchiero P, Zauli G, Gemmati D, Tisato V. p53/NF-kB Balance in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: From OMICs, Genomics and Pharmacogenomics Insights to Tailored Therapeutic Perspectives (COVIDomics). Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:871583. [PMID: 35721196 PMCID: PMC9201997 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.871583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infection affects different organs and tissues, including the upper and lower airways, the lung, the gut, the olfactory system and the eye, which may represent one of the gates to the central nervous system. Key transcriptional factors, such as p53 and NF-kB and their reciprocal balance, are altered upon SARS-CoV-2 infection, as well as other key molecules such as the virus host cell entry mediator ACE2, member of the RAS-pathway. These changes are thought to play a central role in the impaired immune response, as well as in the massive cytokine release, the so-called cytokine storm that represents a hallmark of the most severe form of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Host genetics susceptibility is an additional key side to consider in a complex disease as COVID-19 characterized by such a wide range of clinical phenotypes. In this review, we underline some molecular mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 modulates p53 and NF-kB expression and activity in order to maximize viral replication into the host cells. We also face the RAS-pathway unbalance triggered by virus-ACE2 interaction to discuss potential pharmacological and pharmacogenomics approaches aimed at restoring p53/NF-kB and ACE1/ACE2 balance to counteract the most severe forms of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Milani
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Caruso
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Zauli
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Adi Mohammed Al Owaifeer
- Department of Research, King Khaled Eye Specialistic Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Paola Secchiero
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giorgio Zauli
- Department of Research, King Khaled Eye Specialistic Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Donato Gemmati
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Centre Haemostasis and Thrombosis, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- *Correspondence: Donato Gemmati, ; Veronica Tisato,
| | - Veronica Tisato
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- *Correspondence: Donato Gemmati, ; Veronica Tisato,
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20
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Nakayama EE, Kubota-Koketsu R, Sasaki T, Suzuki K, Uno K, Shimizu J, Okamoto T, Matsumoto H, Matsuura H, Hashimoto S, Tanaka T, Harada H, Tomita M, Kaneko M, Yoshizaki K, Shioda T. Anti-nucleocapsid antibodies enhance the production of IL-6 induced by SARS-CoV-2 N protein. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8108. [PMID: 35577892 PMCID: PMC9109953 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12252-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A cytokine storm induces acute respiratory distress syndrome, the main cause of death in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. However, the detailed mechanisms of cytokine induction due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) remain unclear. To examine the cytokine production in COVID-19, we mimicked the disease in SARS-CoV-2-infected alveoli by adding the lysate of SARS-CoV-2-infected cells to cultured macrophages or induced pluripotent stem cell-derived myeloid cells. The cells secreted interleukin (IL)-6 after the addition of SARS-CoV-2-infected cell lysate. Screening of 25 SARS-CoV-2 protein-expressing plasmids revealed that the N protein-coding plasmid alone induced IL-6 production. The addition of anti-N antibody further enhanced IL-6 production, but the F(ab')2 fragment did not. Sera from COVID-19 patients also enhanced IL-6 production, and sera from patients with severer disease induced higher levels of IL-6. These results suggest that anti-N antibody promotes IL-6 production in SARS-CoV-2-infected alveoli, leading to the cytokine storm of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emi E Nakayama
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases and Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Ritsuko Kubota-Koketsu
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases and Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tadahiro Sasaki
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases and Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Keita Suzuki
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases and Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa, 254-0076, Japan
| | - Kazuko Uno
- Division of Basic Research, Louis Pasteur Center for Medical Research, Kyoto, 606-8225, Japan
| | - Jun Shimizu
- MiCAN Technologies Inc., Kyoto, 615-8245, Japan
| | - Toru Okamoto
- Institute for Advanced Co-Creation Studies, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0781, Japan
| | - Hisatake Matsumoto
- Trauma and Acute Critical Care Center, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Matsuura
- Osaka Prefectural Nakakawachi Emergency and Critical Care Center, Higashiosaka, Osaka, 678-0947, Japan
| | - Shoji Hashimoto
- Osaka Prefectural Hospital Organization Osaka Habikino Medical Center, Habikino, Osaka, 583-8588, Japan
| | - Toshio Tanaka
- Osaka Prefectural Hospital Organization Osaka Habikino Medical Center, Habikino, Osaka, 583-8588, Japan
| | - Hiromasa Harada
- Yao Tokushukai General Hospital, Yao, Osaka, 581-0011, Japan
| | | | | | - Kazuyuki Yoshizaki
- Institute of Scientific and Industry Research, Osaka University, Ibaraki, Osaka, 567-0047, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Shioda
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases and Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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21
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Zhang B, Tian J, Zhang Q, Xie Y, Wang K, Qiu S, Lu K, Liu Y. Comparing the Nucleocapsid Proteins of Human Coronaviruses: Structure, Immunoregulation, Vaccine, and Targeted Drug. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:761173. [PMID: 35573742 PMCID: PMC9099148 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.761173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The seven pathogenic human coronaviruses (HCoVs) include HCoV-229E, HCoV-OC43, HCoV-NL63, and HCoV-HKU1, which usually cause mild upper respiratory tract diseases, and SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2, which cause a severe acute respiratory syndrome. The nucleocapsid (N) protein, as the dominant structural protein from coronaviruses that bind to the genomic RNA, participates in various vital activities after virus invasion and will probably become a promising target of antiviral drug design. Therefore, a comprehensive literature review of human coronavirus’ pathogenic mechanism and therapeutic strategies is necessary for the control of the pandemic. Here, we give a systematic summary of the structures, immunoregulation, and potential vaccines and targeted drugs of the HCoVs N protein. First, we provide a general introduction to the fundamental structures and molecular function of N protein. Next, we outline the N protein mediated immune regulation and pathogenesis mechanism. Finally, we comprehensively summarize the development of potential N protein-targeted drugs and candidate vaccines to treat coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We believe this review provides insight into the virulence and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 as well as support for further study on epidemic control of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Zhang
- College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Liu, ; Keyu Lu, ; Bo Zhang,
| | - Junjie Tian
- College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Qintao Zhang
- College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Yan Xie
- School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Kejia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Plant Resource Conservation and Germplasm Innovation in Mountainous Region (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences/Institute of Agro-bioengineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Shuyi Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Resource Conservation and Germplasm Innovation in Mountainous Region (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences/Institute of Agro-bioengineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Keyu Lu
- College of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Liu, ; Keyu Lu, ; Bo Zhang,
| | - Yang Liu
- School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- Key Laboratory of Plant Resource Conservation and Germplasm Innovation in Mountainous Region (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences/Institute of Agro-bioengineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Liu, ; Keyu Lu, ; Bo Zhang,
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22
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MacDougall M, El-Hajj Sleiman J, Beauchemin P, Rangachari M. SARS-CoV-2 and Multiple Sclerosis: Potential for Disease Exacerbation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:871276. [PMID: 35572514 PMCID: PMC9102605 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.871276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
While the respiratory tract is the primary route of entry for SARS-CoV-2, evidence shows that the virus also impacts the central nervous system. Intriguingly, case reports have documented SARS-CoV-2 patients presenting with demyelinating lesions in the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve, suggesting possible implications in neuroimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and other related neuroimmune disorders. However, the cellular mechanisms underpinning these observations remain poorly defined. The goal of this paper was to review the literature to date regarding possible links between SARS-CoV-2 infection and neuroimmune demyelinating diseases such as MS and its related disorders, with the aim of positing a hypothesis for disease exacerbation. The literature suggests that SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2, and orthologous murine coronaviruses invade the CNS via the olfactory bulb, spreading to connected structures via retrograde transport. We hypothesize that a glial inflammatory response may contribute to damaged oligodendrocytes and blood brain barrier (BBB) breakdown, allowing a second route for CNS invasion and lymphocyte infiltration. Potential for molecular mimicry and the stimulation of autoreactive T cells against myelin is also described. It is imperative that further studies on SARS-CoV-2 neuroinvasion address the adverse effects of the virus on myelin and exacerbation of MS symptoms, as nearly 3 million people suffer from MS worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison MacDougall
- Department of Biological Sciences, Salisbury University, Salisbury, MD, United States
- Department of Psychology, Salisbury University, Salisbury, MD, United States
| | - Jad El-Hajj Sleiman
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, CHU de Québec – Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Philippe Beauchemin
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, CHU de Québec – Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Manu Rangachari
- Axe Neurosciences, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec – Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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Kao M, Yang J, Balasubramaniam A, Traisaeng S, Jackson Yang A, Yang JJ, Salamon BP, Herr DR, Huang C. Colonization of nasal cavities by
Staphylococcus epidermidis
mitigates SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleocapsid phosphoprotein‐induced interleukin (IL)‐6 in the lung. Microb Biotechnol 2022; 15:1984-1994. [PMID: 35426250 PMCID: PMC9111282 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.13994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) can trigger excessive interleukin (IL)‐6 signalling, leading to a myriad of biological effects including a cytokine storm that contributes to multiple organ failure in severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). Using a mouse model, we demonstrated that nasal inoculation of nucleocapsid phosphoprotein (NPP) of SARS‐CoV‐2 increased IL‐6 content in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Nasal administration of liquid coco‐caprylate/caprate (LCC) onto Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis)‐colonized mice significantly attenuated NPP‐induced IL‐6. Furthermore, S. epidermidis‐mediated LCC fermentation to generate electricity and butyric acid that promoted bacterial colonization and activated free fatty acid receptor 2 (Ffar2) respectively. Inhibition of Ffar2 impeded the effect of S. epidermidis plus LCC on the reduction of NPP‐induced IL‐6. Collectively, these results suggest that nasal S. epidermidis is part of the first line of defence in ameliorating a cytokine storm induced by airway infection of SARS‐CoV‐2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming‐Shan Kao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering National Central University Taoyuan 32001 Taiwan
| | - Jen‐Ho Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering National Central University Taoyuan 32001 Taiwan
| | - Arun Balasubramaniam
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering National Central University Taoyuan 32001 Taiwan
| | | | - Albert Jackson Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering National Central University Taoyuan 32001 Taiwan
| | - John Jackson Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering National Central University Taoyuan 32001 Taiwan
| | | | - Deron R. Herr
- Department of Biology San Diego State University San Diego CA 92182 USA
| | - Chun‐Ming Huang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering National Central University Taoyuan 32001 Taiwan
- Department of Biomedical Science and Environment Biology Kaohsiung Medical University Kaohsiung 80708 Taiwan
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24
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In Vitro SARS-CoV-2 Infection of Microvascular Endothelial Cells: Effect on Pro-Inflammatory Cytokine and Chemokine Release. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23074063. [PMID: 35409421 PMCID: PMC8999888 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23074063] [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: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the novel pandemic of Coronavirus Disease 2019, high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines lead to endothelial activation and dysfunction, promoting a pro-coagulative state, thrombotic events, and microvasculature injuries. The aim of the present work was to investigate the effect of SARS-CoV-2 on pro-inflammatory cytokines, tissue factor, and chemokine release, with Human Microvascular Endothelial Cells (HMEC-1). ACE2 receptor expression was evaluated by western blot analysis. SARS-CoV-2 infection was assessed by one-step RT-PCR until 7 days post-infection (p.i.), and by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). IL-6, TNF-α, IL-8, IFN-α, and hTF mRNA expression levels were detected by RT-PCR, while cytokine release was evaluated by ELISA. HMEC-1 expressed ACE2 receptor and SARS-CoV-2 infection showed a constant viral load. TEM analysis showed virions localized in the cytoplasm. Expression of IL-6 at 24 h and IFN-α mRNA at 24 h and 48 h p.i. was higher in infected than uninfected HMEC-1 (p < 0.05). IL-6 levels were significantly higher in supernatants from infected HMEC-1 (p < 0.001) at 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h p.i., while IL-8 levels were significantly lower at 24 h p.i. (p < 0.001). These data indicate that in vitro microvascular endothelial cells are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection but slightly contribute to viral amplification. However, SARS-CoV-2 infection might trigger the increase of pro-inflammatory mediators.
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25
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Evaluation of the Potential Risk of Mortality from SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Hospitalized Patients According to the Charlson Comorbidity Index. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10020362. [PMID: 35206976 PMCID: PMC8872141 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10020362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The pandemic of COVID-19 has represented a major threat to global public health in the last century and therefore to identify predictors of mortality among COVID-19 hospitalized patients is widely justified. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible usefulness of Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) as mortality predictor in patients hospitalized because COVID-19. Methods: This study was carried out in Zacatecas, Mexico, and it included 705 hospitalized patients with suspected of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Clinical data were collected, and the CCI score was calculated online using the calculator from the Sociedad Andaluza de Medicina Intensiva y Unidades Coronarias; the result was evaluated as mortality predictor among the patients with COVID-19. Results: 377 patients were positive for SARS-COV-2. Obesity increased the risk of intubation among the study population (odds ratio (OR) = 2.59; 95 CI: 1.36–4.92; p = 0.003). The CCI values were higher in patients who died because of COVID-19 complications than those observed in patients who survived (p < 0.001). Considering a CCI cutoff > 31.69, the area under the ROC curve was 0.75, with a sensitivity and a specificity of 63.6% and 87.7%, respectively. Having a CCI value > 31.69 increased the odds of death by 12.5 times among the study population (95% CI: 7.3–21.4; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The CCI is a suitable tool for the prediction of mortality in patients hospitalized for COVID-19. The presence of comorbidities in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 reflected as CCI > 31.69 increased the risk of death among the study population, so it is important to take precautionary measures in patients due to their condition and their increased vulnerability to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Gholami M, Adibipour F, Valipour SM, Ulloa L, Motaghinejad M. Potential Regulation of NF-κB by Curcumin in Coronavirus-Induced Cytokine Storm and Lung Injury. Int J Prev Med 2022; 13:156. [PMID: 36911003 PMCID: PMC9999103 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_565_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The current pandemic coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is still a global medical and economic emergency with over 244 million confirmed infections and over 4.95 million deaths by October 2021, in less than 2 years. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS), and COVID-19 are three recent coronavirus pandemics with major medical and economic implications. Currently, there is no effective treatment for these infections. One major pathological hallmark of these infections is the so-called 'cytokine storm,' which depicts an unregulated production of inflammatory cytokines inducing detrimental inflammation leading to organ injury and multiple organ failure including severe pulmonary, cardiovascular, and kidney failure in COVID-19. Several studies have suggested the potential of curcumin to inhibit the replication of some viruses similar to coronaviruses. Multiple experimental and clinical studies also reported the anti-inflammatory potential of curcumin in multiple infectious and inflammatory disorders. Thus, we hypothesized that curcumin may provide antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects for treating COVID-19. Although these studies suggest that curcumin could serve as an adjuvant treatment for COVID-19, its molecular mechanisms are still debated, especially its potential to modulate the toll-like receptors/TIR-domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon-β/nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (TLR/TRIF/NF-κB) pathway. The preliminary results showed that curcumin modulates the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) pathway, a common pathway controlling cytokine production in multiple infectious and inflammatory disorders. Here, we hypothesize and discuss whether curcumin treatment may provide antiviral and anti-inflammatory clinical advantages for treating COVID-19 by modulating the TLR/TRIF/NF-κB pathway. We also review the current data on curcumin and discuss potential experimental and clinical studies that require defining its potential clinical implications in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Gholami
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Adibipour
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sanaz M Valipour
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Luis Ulloa
- Center for Perioperative Organ Protection, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Majid Motaghinejad
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Pourgholaminejad A, Pahlavanneshan S, Basiri M. COVID-19 immunopathology with emphasis on Th17 response and cell-based immunomodulation therapy: Potential targets and challenges. Scand J Immunol 2021; 95:e13131. [PMID: 34936112 DOI: 10.1111/sji.13131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The role of the immune system against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is unknown in many aspects, and the protective or pathologic mechanisms of the immune response are poorly understood. Pro-inflammatory cytokine release and a consequent cytokine storm can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and result in multi-organ failure. There are many T cell subsets during anti-viral immunity. The Th17-associated response, as a pro-inflammatory pathway, and its consequent outcomes in many autoimmune disorders play a fundamental role in progression of systemic hyper-inflammation during COVID-19. Therapeutic strategies based on immunomodulation therapy could be helpful for targeting hyper-inflammatory immune responses in COVID-19, especially Th17-related inflammation and hyper-cytokinemia. Cell-based immunotherapeutic approaches including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), tolerogenic dendritic cells (tolDCs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) seem to be promising strategies as orchestrators of the immune response against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this review, we highlight Th17-related immunopathology of SARS-CoV-2 infection and discuss cell-based immunomodulatory strategies and their mechanisms for regulation of the hyper-inflammation during COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Pourgholaminejad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Saghar Pahlavanneshan
- Medical Nanotechnology and Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Basiri
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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Kaffash Farkhad N, Reihani H, sedaghat A, Moghadam AA, Moghadam AB, Tavakol-Afshari J. Are mesenchymal stem cells able to manage cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients? A review of recent studies. Regen Ther 2021; 18:152-160. [PMID: 34124322 PMCID: PMC8185247 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2021.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The Covid-19 disease has recently become one of the biggest challenges globally, and there is still no specific medication. Findings showed the immune system in severe Covid-19 patients loses regulatory control of pro-inflammatory cytokines, especially IL-6 production, called the "Cytokine storm" process. This process can cause injury to vital organs, including lungs, kidneys, liver, and ultimately death if not inhibited. While many treatments have been proposed to reduce cytokine storm, but the safety and effectiveness of each of them are still in doubt. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells with self-renewal potential capable of suppressing overactive immune responses and leading to tissue restoration and repair. These immuno-modulatory properties of MSCs and their derivatives (like exosomes) can improve the condition of Covid-19 patients with serious infectious symptoms caused by adaptive immune system dysfunction. Many clinical trials have been conducted in this field using various MSCs around the world. Some of these have been published and summarized in the present article, while many have not yet been completed. Based on these available data, MSCs can reduce inflammatory cytokines, increase oxygen saturation, regenerate lung tissue and improve clinical symptoms in Covid-19 patients. The review article aims to collect available clinical data in more detail and investigate the role of MSCs in reducing cytokine storms as well as improving clinical parameters of Covid-19 patients for use in future clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najmeh Kaffash Farkhad
- Immunology Research Center, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
- Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Reihani
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alireza sedaghat
- Fellowship of Critical Care Medicine (FCCM), Lung Disease Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Adhami Moghadam
- Specialty of Internal Medicine and Critical Care, Head of Army Hospital ICU and Intensivist, Iran
| | - Ahmad Bagheri Moghadam
- Internal Medicine and Critical Care, Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Jalil Tavakol-Afshari
- Immunology Research Center, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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29
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Emadi-Baygi M, Ehsanifard M, Afrashtehpour N, Norouzi M, Joz-Abbasalian Z. Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a System-Level Infectious Disease With Distinct Sex Disparities. Front Immunol 2021; 12:778913. [PMID: 34912345 PMCID: PMC8667725 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.778913] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The current global pandemic of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causing COVID-19, has infected millions of people and continues to pose a threat to many more. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) is an important player of the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) expressed on the surface of the lung, heart, kidney, neurons, and endothelial cells, which mediates SARS-CoV-2 entry into the host cells. The cytokine storms of COVID-19 arise from the large recruitment of immune cells because of the dis-synchronized hyperactive immune system, lead to many abnormalities including hyper-inflammation, endotheliopathy, and hypercoagulability that produce multi-organ dysfunction and increased the risk of arterial and venous thrombosis resulting in more severe illness and mortality. We discuss the aberrated interconnectedness and forthcoming crosstalks between immunity, the endothelium, and coagulation, as well as how sex disparities affect the severity and outcome of COVID-19 and harm men especially. Further, our conceptual framework may help to explain why persistent symptoms, such as reduced physical fitness and fatigue during long COVID, may be rooted in the clotting system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Modjtaba Emadi-Baygi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mahsa Ehsanifard
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Najmeh Afrashtehpour
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Norouzi
- Department of Research and Development, Erythrogen Medical Genetics Lab, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Zahra Joz-Abbasalian
- Clinical Laboratory, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Categorizing sequences of concern by function to better assess mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis. Infect Immun 2021; 90:e0033421. [PMID: 34780277 PMCID: PMC9119117 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00334-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
To identify sequences with a role in microbial pathogenesis, we assessed the adequacy of their annotation by existing controlled vocabularies and sequence databases. Our goal was to regularize descriptions of microbial pathogenesis for improved integration with bioinformatic applications. Here, we review the challenges of annotating sequences for pathogenic activity. We relate the categorization of more than 2,750 sequences of pathogenic microbes through a controlled vocabulary called Functions of Sequences of Concern (FunSoCs). These allow for an ease of description by both humans and machines. We provide a subset of 220 fully annotated sequences in the supplemental material as examples. The use of this compact (∼30 terms), controlled vocabulary has potential benefits for research in microbial genomics, public health, biosecurity, biosurveillance, and the characterization of new and emerging pathogens.
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31
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Murdaca G, Paladin F, Tonacci A, Isola S, Allegra A, Gangemi S. The Potential Role of Cytokine Storm Pathway in the Clinical Course of Viral Respiratory Pandemic. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111688. [PMID: 34829918 PMCID: PMC8615478 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111688] [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: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The "cytokine storm" (CS) consists of a spectrum of different immune dysregulation disorders characterized by constitutional symptoms, systemic inflammation and multiorgan dysfunction triggered by an uncontrolled immune response. Particularly in respiratory virus infections, the cytokine storm plays a primary role in the pathogenesis of respiratory disease and the clinical outcome of respiratory diseases, leading to complications such as alveolar edema and hypoxia. In this review, we wanted to analyze the different pathogenetic mechanisms involved in the various respiratory viral pandemics (COVID-19; SARS; MERS; H1N1 influenza A and Spanish flu) which have affected humans in this and last century, with particular attention to the phenomenon of the "cytokine storm" which determines the clinical severity of the respiratory disease and consequently its lethality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Murdaca
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0103537924; Fax: +39-0105556950
| | - Francesca Paladin
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Tonacci
- Clinical Physiology Institute, National Research Council of Italy (IFC-CNR), 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Stefania Isola
- School and Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (S.I.); (S.G.)
| | - Alessandro Allegra
- Division of Hematology, Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood “Gaetano Barresi”, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Sebastiano Gangemi
- School and Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (S.I.); (S.G.)
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Singh S, Pandey R, Tomar S, Varshney R, Sharma D, Gangenahalli G. A brief molecular insight of COVID-19: epidemiology, clinical manifestation, molecular mechanism, cellular tropism and immuno-pathogenesis. Mol Cell Biochem 2021; 476:3987-4002. [PMID: 34195882 PMCID: PMC8244678 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-021-04217-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In December 2019, the emergence and expansion of novel and infectious respiratory virus SARS-CoV-2 originated from Wuhan, China caused an unprecedented threat to the public health and became a global pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 is an enveloped, positive sense and single stranded RNA virus belonging to genera betacoronavirus, of Coronaviridae family. The viral genome sequencing studies revealed 75-80% similarity with SARS-CoV. SARS-CoV-2 mainly affects the lower respiratory system and may progress to pneumonia and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Apart from life-threatening situations and burden on the global healthcare system, the COVID-19 pandemic has imposed several challenges on the worldwide economics and livelihood. The novel pathogen is highly virulent, rapidly mutating and has a tendency to cross the species boundaries such as from bats to humans through the evolution and natural selection from intermediate host. In this review we tried to summarize the overall picture of SARS-CoV-2 including origin/ emergence, epidemiology, pathogenesis, genome organization, comparative analysis with other CoVs, infection and replication mechanism along with cellular tropism and immunopathogenesis which will provide a brief panoramic view about the virus and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sweta Singh
- Division of Stem Cell and Gene Therapy, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences, Brig. S. K. Mazumdar Road, Delhi, 110054, India
| | - Rakesh Pandey
- Division of Stem Cell and Gene Therapy, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences, Brig. S. K. Mazumdar Road, Delhi, 110054, India
| | - Sarika Tomar
- Division of Stem Cell and Gene Therapy, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences, Brig. S. K. Mazumdar Road, Delhi, 110054, India
| | - Raunak Varshney
- Division of Cyclotron and Radiopharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences, Brig. S. K. Mazumdar Road, Delhi, 110054, India
| | - Darshika Sharma
- Division of Stem Cell and Gene Therapy, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences, Brig. S. K. Mazumdar Road, Delhi, 110054, India
- Meerut Institute of Engineering and Technology, Meerut, India
| | - Gurudutta Gangenahalli
- Division of Stem Cell and Gene Therapy, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences, Brig. S. K. Mazumdar Road, Delhi, 110054, India.
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Amini-Farsani Z, Yadollahi-Farsani M, Arab S, Forouzanfar F, Yadollahi M, Asgharzade S. Prediction and analysis of microRNAs involved in COVID-19 inflammatory processes associated with the NF-kB and JAK/STAT signaling pathways. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 100:108071. [PMID: 34482267 PMCID: PMC8378592 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 is the cause of a pandemic associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. As yet, there is no available approved drug to eradicate the virus. In this review article, we present an alternative study area that may contribute to the development of therapeutic targets for COVID-19. Growing evidence is revealing further pathophysiological mechanisms of COVID-19 related to the disregulation of inflammation pathways that seem to play a critical role toward COVID-19 complications. The NF-kB and JAK/STAT signaling pathways are highly activated in acute inflammation, and the excessive activity of these pathways in COVID-19 patients likely exacerbates the inflammatory responses of the host. A group of non-coding RNAs (miRNAs) manage certain features of the inflammatory process. In this study, we discuss recent advances in our understanding of miRNAs and their connection to inflammatory responses. Additionally, we consider the link between perturbations in miRNA levels and the onset of COVID-19 disease. Furthermore, previous studies published in the online databases, namely web of science, MEDLINE (PubMed), and Scopus, were reviewed for the potential role of miRNAs in the inflammatory manifestations of COVID-19. Moreover, we disclosed the interactions of inflammatory genes using STRING DB and designed interactions between miRNAs and target genes using Cityscape software. Several miRNAs, particularly miR-9, miR-98, miR-223, and miR-214, play crucial roles in the regulation of NF-kB and JAK-STAT signaling pathways as inflammatory regulators. Therefore, this group of miRNAs that mitigate inflammatory pathways can be further regarded as potential targets for far-reaching-therapeutic strategies in COVID-19 diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Amini-Farsani
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran; Department of Biology, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Mahtab Yadollahi-Farsani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Samaneh Arab
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran; Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Forouzanfar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mitra Yadollahi
- Department of Operative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Samira Asgharzade
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
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Fiorino S, Tateo F, Biase DD, Gallo CG, Orlandi PE, Corazza I, Budriesi R, Micucci M, Visani M, Loggi E, Hong W, Pica R, Lari F, Zippi M. SARS-CoV-2: lessons from both the history of medicine and from the biological behavior of other well-known viruses. Future Microbiol 2021; 16:1105-1133. [PMID: 34468163 PMCID: PMC8412036 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2021-0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is the etiological agent of the current pandemic worldwide and its associated disease COVID-19. In this review, we have analyzed SARS-CoV-2 characteristics and those ones of other well-known RNA viruses viz. HIV, HCV and Influenza viruses, collecting their historical data, clinical manifestations and pathogenetic mechanisms. The aim of the work is obtaining useful insights and lessons for a better understanding of SARS-CoV-2. These pathogens present a distinct mode of transmission, as SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza viruses are airborne, whereas HIV and HCV are bloodborne. However, these viruses exhibit some potential similar clinical manifestations and pathogenetic mechanisms and their understanding may contribute to establishing preventive measures and new therapies against SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Budrio (Bologna), Azienda USL, Bologna, 40054, Italy
| | - Fabio Tateo
- Institute of Geosciences & Earth Resources, CNR, c/o Department of Geosciences, Padova University, 35127, Italy
| | - Dario De Biase
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Claudio G Gallo
- Fisiolaserterapico Emiliano, Castel San Pietro Terme, Bologna, 40024, Italy
| | | | - Ivan Corazza
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic & Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Roberta Budriesi
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Matteo Micucci
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Michela Visani
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Loggi
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical & Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Wandong Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou City, Zhejiang, 325035, PR China
| | - Roberta Pica
- Unit of Gastroenterology & Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, 00157, Italy
| | - Federico Lari
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Budrio (Bologna), Azienda USL, Bologna, 40054, Italy
| | - Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology & Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, 00157, Italy
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Soni B, Kabra R, Singh S. Quantitative Insight into Immunopathology of SARS-CoV-2 Infection. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2021; 41:244-257. [PMID: 34280026 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2020.0156] [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: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), which initiated as an endemic from China, converted into a pandemic disease worldwide within a couple of months' time. This has led researchers from all over the world to come together to find and develop possible curative or preventive strategies, including vaccine development, drug repurposing, plasma therapy, drug discovery, and cytokine-based therapies. Herein, we are providing, a summarized overview of immunopathology of the SARS-CoV-2 along with various therapeutic strategies undertaken to COVID-19 with a vision for their possible outcome. High levels of proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-7, G-CSF, IP-10, TNF-α, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and IL-2 in severe cases of COVID-19 have been observed. Immune responses play significant roles in the determination of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis. Thus, exploring the underlying mechanism of the immune system response to SARS-CoV-2 infection would help in the prediction of disease course and selection of intensive care and therapeutic strategy. As an effort toward developing possible therapeutics for COVID-19, we highlighted different types of vaccines, which are under clinical trials, and also discussed the impact of genome variability on efficacy of vaccine under development.
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Shalash AO, Hussein WM, Skwarczynski M, Toth I. Key Considerations for the Development of Safe and Effective SARS-CoV-2 Subunit Vaccine: A Peptide-Based Vaccine Alternative. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:e2100985. [PMID: 34176237 PMCID: PMC8373118 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202100985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 is disastrous to global health and the economy. SARS-CoV-2 infection exhibits similar clinical symptoms and immunopathological sequelae to SARS-CoV infection. Therefore, much of the developmental progress on SARS-CoV vaccines can be utilized for the development of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Careful antigen selection during development is always of utmost importance for the production of effective vaccines that do not compromise recipient safety. This holds especially true for SARS-CoV vaccines, as several immunopathological disorders are associated with the activity of structural and nonstructural proteins encoded in the virus's genetic material. Whole viral protein and RNA-encoding full-length proteins contain both protective and "dangerous" sequences, unless pathological fragments are deleted. In light of recent advances, peptide vaccines may present a very safe and effective alternative. Peptide vaccines can avoid immunopathological pro-inflammatory sequences, focus immune responses on neutralizing immunogenic epitopes, avoid off-target antigen loss, combine antigens with different protective roles or mechanisms, even from different viral proteins, and avoid mutant escape by employing highly conserved cryptic epitopes. In this review, an attempt is made to exploit the similarities between SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 in vaccine antigen screening, with particular attention to the pathological and immunogenic properties of SARS proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed O. Shalash
- School of Chemistry and Molecular BiosciencesThe University of QueenslandSt. LuciaQLD4072Australia
| | - Waleed M. Hussein
- School of Chemistry and Molecular BiosciencesThe University of QueenslandSt. LuciaQLD4072Australia
| | - Mariusz Skwarczynski
- School of Chemistry and Molecular BiosciencesThe University of QueenslandSt. LuciaQLD4072Australia
| | - Istvan Toth
- School of Chemistry and Molecular BiosciencesThe University of QueenslandSt. LuciaQLD4072Australia
- Institute for Molecular BioscienceThe University of QueenslandSt. LuciaQLD4072Australia
- School of PharmacyThe University of QueenslandWoolloongabbaQLD4102Australia
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Kali SK, Dröge P, Murugan P. Interferon β, an enhancer of the innate immune response against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Microb Pathog 2021; 158:105105. [PMID: 34311016 PMCID: PMC8302486 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.105105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 exhibits a global health threat among the elderly and the population with underlying health conditions. During infection, the host's innate immune response acts as a frontline of defense by releasing cytokines such as type I interferon (IFN α and β) thereby initiating antiviral activity. However, this particular interferon response is interrupted by factors such as SARS-CoV-2 non-structural proteins, aging, diabetes, and germ-line errors eventually making the host more susceptible to illness. Therefore, enhancing the host's innate immune response by administering type I IFN could be an effective treatment against COVID-19. Here, we highlight the importance of innate immune response and the role of IFN β monotherapy against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Dröge
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
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Kuperberg SJ, Navetta-Modrov B. The Role of Obesity in the Immunopathogenesis of COVID-19 Respiratory Disease and Critical Illness. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2021; 65:13-21. [PMID: 33797351 PMCID: PMC8320126 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2020-0236tr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the clinical syndrome caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is currently a global health pandemic with substantial morbidity and mortality. COVID-19 has cast a shadow on nearly every aspect of society, straining health systems and economies across the world. Although it is widely accepted that a close relationship exists between obesity, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders on infection, we are only beginning to understand ways in which the immunological sequelae of obesity functions as a predisposing factor related to poor clinical outcomes in COVID-19. As both the innate and adaptive immune systems are each primed by obesity, the alteration of key pathways results in both an immunosuppressed and hyperinflammatory state. The present review will discuss the cellular and molecular immunology of obesity in the context of its role as a risk factor for severe COVID-19, discuss the role of cytokine storm, and draw parallels to prior viral epidemics such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), and 2009 H1N1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Kuperberg
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Brianne Navetta-Modrov
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Stony Brook University Hospital/Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York
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Pham MT, Yang AJ, Kao MS, Gankhuyag U, Zayabaatar E, Jin SLC, Huang CM. Gut probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus attenuates PDE4B-mediated interleukin-6 induced by SARS-CoV-2 membrane glycoprotein. J Nutr Biochem 2021; 98:108821. [PMID: 34271099 PMCID: PMC8277543 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2021.108821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Membrane glycoprotein is the most abundant protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), but its role in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has not been fully characterized. Mice intranasally inoculated with membrane glycoprotein substantially increased the interleukin (IL)-6, a hallmark of the cytokine storm, in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), compared to mice inoculated with green fluorescent protein (GFP). The high level of IL-6 induced by membrane glycoprotein was significantly diminished in phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4B) knockout mice, demonstrating the essential role of PDE4B in IL-6 signaling. Mycelium fermentation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus) EH8 strain yielded butyric acid, which can down-regulate the PDE4B expression and IL-6 secretion in macrophages. Feeding mice with mycelia increased the relative abundance of commensal L. rhamnosus. Two-week supplementation of mice with L. rhamnosus plus mycelia considerably decreased membrane glycoprotein-induced PDE4B expression and IL-6 secretion. The probiotic activity of L. rhamnosus plus mycelia against membrane glycoprotein was abolished in mice treated with GLPG-0974, an antagonist of free fatty acid receptor 2 (Ffar2). Activation of Ffar2 in the gut-lung axis for down-regulation of the PDE4B-IL-6 signalling may provide targets for development of modalities including probiotics for treatment of the cytokine storm in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh Tan Pham
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan, 32001, Taiwan
| | - Albert Jackson Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan, 32001, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Shan Kao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan, 32001, Taiwan
| | - Uuganbayar Gankhuyag
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan, 32001, Taiwan
| | - Enkhbat Zayabaatar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan, 32001, Taiwan
| | | | - Chun-Ming Huang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan, 32001, Taiwan; Department of Biomedical Science and Environmental Biology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 80708, Taiwan.
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Beaudoin CA, Jamasb AR, Alsulami AF, Copoiu L, van Tonder AJ, Hala S, Bannerman BP, Thomas SE, Vedithi SC, Torres PH, Blundell TL. Predicted structural mimicry of spike receptor-binding motifs from highly pathogenic human coronaviruses. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2021; 19:3938-3953. [PMID: 34234921 PMCID: PMC8249111 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2021.06.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Potential coronavirus spike protein mimicry revealed by structural comparison. Human and non-human protein potential interactions with virus identified. Predicted structural mimicry corroborated by protein–protein docking. Epitope-based alignments may help guide vaccine efforts.
Viruses often encode proteins that mimic host proteins in order to facilitate infection. Little work has been done to understand the potential mimicry of the SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV spike proteins, particularly the receptor-binding motifs, which could be important in determining tropism and druggability of the virus. Peptide and epitope motifs have been detected on coronavirus spike proteins using sequence homology approaches; however, comparing the three-dimensional shape of the protein has been shown as more informative in predicting mimicry than sequence-based comparisons. Here, we use structural bioinformatics software to characterize potential mimicry of the three coronavirus spike protein receptor-binding motifs. We utilize sequence-independent alignment tools to compare structurally known protein models with the receptor-binding motifs and verify potential mimicked interactions with protein docking simulations. Both human and non-human proteins were returned for all three receptor-binding motifs. For example, all three were similar to several proteins containing EGF-like domains: some of which are endogenous to humans, such as thrombomodulin, and others exogenous, such as Plasmodium falciparum MSP-1. Similarity to human proteins may reveal which pathways the spike protein is co-opting, while analogous non-human proteins may indicate shared host interaction partners and overlapping antibody cross-reactivity. These findings can help guide experimental efforts to further understand potential interactions between human and coronavirus proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A. Beaudoin
- Department of Biochemistry, Sanger Building, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Rd, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
- Corresponding authors.
| | - Arian R. Jamasb
- Department of Biochemistry, Sanger Building, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Rd, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
- Department of Computer Science & Technology, University of Cambridge, JJ Thomson Ave, Cambridge CB3 0FD, United Kingdom
| | - Ali F. Alsulami
- Department of Biochemistry, Sanger Building, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Rd, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
| | - Liviu Copoiu
- Department of Biochemistry, Sanger Building, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Rd, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
| | - Andries J. van Tonder
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Rd, Cambridge CB3 0ES, United Kingdom
| | - Sharif Hala
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre – Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bridget P. Bannerman
- Department of Biochemistry, Sanger Building, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Rd, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
| | - Sherine E. Thomas
- Department of Biochemistry, Sanger Building, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Rd, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
| | - Sundeep Chaitanya Vedithi
- Department of Biochemistry, Sanger Building, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Rd, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
| | - Pedro H.M. Torres
- Laboratório de Modelagem e Dinâmica Molecular, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Tom L. Blundell
- Department of Biochemistry, Sanger Building, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Rd, Cambridge CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
- Corresponding authors.
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Su CM, Wang L, Yoo D. Activation of NF-κB and induction of proinflammatory cytokine expressions mediated by ORF7a protein of SARS-CoV-2. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13464. [PMID: 34188167 PMCID: PMC8242070 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92941-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) that emerged in human populations recently. Severely ill COVID-19 patients exhibit the elevation of proinflammatory cytokines, and such an unbalanced production of proinflammatory cytokines is linked to acute respiratory distress syndrome with high mortality in COVID-19 patients. Our study provides evidence that the ORF3a, M, ORF7a, and N proteins of SARS-CoV-2 were NF-κB activators. The viral sequence from infected zoo lions belonged to clade V, and a single mutation of G251V is found for ORF3a gene compared to all other clades. No significant functional difference was found for clade V ORF3a, indicating the NF-κB activation is conserved among COVID-19 variants. Of the four viral proteins, the ORF7a protein induced the NF-κB dictated proinflammatory cytokines including IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α, and IFNβ. The ORF7a protein also induced IL-3, IL-4, IL-7, IL-23. Of 15 different chemokines examined in the study, CCL11, CCL17, CCL19, CCL20, CCL21, CCL22, CCL25, CCL26, CCL27, and CXCL9 were significantly upregulated by ORF7. These cytokines and chemokines were frequently elevated in severely ill COVID-19 patients. Our data provide an insight into how SARS-CoV-2 modulates NF-κB signaling and inflammatory cytokine expressions. The ORF7a protein may be a desirable target for strategic developments to minimize uncontrolled inflammation in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Ming Su
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 Lincoln Ave, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA
| | - Leyi Wang
- Department of Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Dongwan Yoo
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 Lincoln Ave, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA.
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Jamalkhah M, Asaadi Y, Azangou-Khyavy M, Khanali J, Soleimani M, Kiani J, Arefian E. MSC-derived exosomes carrying a cocktail of exogenous interfering RNAs an unprecedented therapy in era of COVID-19 outbreak. J Transl Med 2021; 19:164. [PMID: 33888147 PMCID: PMC8061879 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-02840-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The onset of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has resulted in ever-increasing casualties worldwide, and after 15 months, standard therapeutic regimens are yet to be discovered. MAIN BODY Due to the regenerative and immunomodulatory function of MSCs, they can serve as a suitable therapeutic option in alleviating major COVID-19 complications like acute respiratory distress syndrome. However, the superior properties of their cognate exosomes as a cell-free product make them preferable in the clinic. Herein, we discuss the current clinical status of these novel therapeutic strategies in COVID-19 treatment. We then delve into the potential of interfering RNAs incorporation as COVID-19 gene therapy and introduce targets involved in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis. Further, we present miRNAs and siRNAs candidates with promising results in targeting the mentioned targets. CONCLUSION Finally, we present a therapeutic platform of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes equipped with exogenous iRNAs, that can be employed as a novel therapeutic modality in COVID-19 management aiming to prevent further viral spread within the lung, hinder the virus life cycle and pathogenesis such as immune suppression, and ultimately, enhance the antiviral immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monire Jamalkhah
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasaman Asaadi
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Javad Khanali
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoud Soleimani
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jafar Kiani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Ehsan Arefian
- Department of Microbiology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
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Vallée A, Lecarpentier Y, Vallée JN. Interplay of Opposing Effects of the WNT/β-Catenin Pathway and PPARγ and Implications for SARS-CoV2 Treatment. Front Immunol 2021; 12:666693. [PMID: 33927728 PMCID: PMC8076593 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.666693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), has quickly reached pandemic proportions. Cytokine profiles observed in COVID-19 patients have revealed increased levels of IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-α and increased NF-κB pathway activity. Recent evidence has shown that the upregulation of the WNT/β-catenin pathway is associated with inflammation, resulting in a cytokine storm in ARDS (acute respire distress syndrome) and especially in COVID-19 patients. Several studies have shown that the WNT/β-catenin pathway interacts with PPARγ in an opposing interplay in numerous diseases. Furthermore, recent studies have highlighted the interesting role of PPARγ agonists as modulators of inflammatory and immunomodulatory drugs through the targeting of the cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients. SARS-CoV2 infection presents a decrease in the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) associated with the upregulation of the WNT/β-catenin pathway. SARS-Cov2 may invade human organs besides the lungs through the expression of ACE2. Evidence has highlighted the fact that PPARγ agonists can increase ACE2 expression, suggesting a possible role for PPARγ agonists in the treatment of COVID-19. This review therefore focuses on the opposing interplay between the canonical WNT/β-catenin pathway and PPARγ in SARS-CoV2 infection and the potential beneficial role of PPARγ agonists in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Vallée
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Foch Hospital, Suresnes, France
| | - Yves Lecarpentier
- Centre de Recherche Clinique, Grand Hôpital de l'Est Francilien (GHEF), Meaux, France
| | - Jean-Noël Vallée
- University Hospital Center (CHU) Amiens Picardie, University of Picardie Jules Verne (UPJV), Amiens, France.,Laboratory of Mathematics and Applications (LMA), Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) 7348, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France
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Wang Z, Li K, Maskey AR, Huang W, Toutov AA, Yang N, Srivastava K, Geliebter J, Tiwari R, Miao M, Li X. A small molecule compound berberine as an orally active therapeutic candidate against COVID-19 and SARS: A computational and mechanistic study. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21360. [PMID: 33749932 PMCID: PMC8250068 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001792r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease, COVID-19, has grown into a global pandemic and a major public health threat since its breakout in December 2019. To date, no specific therapeutic drug or vaccine for treating COVID-19 and SARS has been FDA approved. Previous studies suggest that berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid, has shown various biological activities that may help against COVID-19 and SARS, including antiviral, anti-allergy and inflammation, hepatoprotection against drug- and infection-induced liver injury, as well as reducing oxidative stress. In particular, berberine has a wide range of antiviral activities such as anti-influenza, anti-hepatitis C, anti-cytomegalovirus, and anti-alphavirus. As an ingredient recommended in guidelines issued by the China National Health Commission for COVID-19 to be combined with other therapy, berberine is a promising orally administered therapeutic candidate against SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. The current study comprehensively evaluates the potential therapeutic mechanisms of berberine in preventing and treating COVID-19 and SARS using computational modeling, including target mining, gene ontology enrichment, pathway analyses, protein-protein interaction analysis, and in silico molecular docking. An orally available immunotherapeutic-berberine nanomedicine, named NIT-X, has been developed by our group and has shown significantly increased oral bioavailability of berberine, increased IFN-γ production by CD8+ T cells, and inhibition of mast cell histamine release in vivo, suggesting a protective immune response. We further validated the inhibition of replication of SARS-CoV-2 in lung epithelial cells line in vitro (Calu3 cells) by berberine. Moreover, the expression of targets including ACE2, TMPRSS2, IL-1α, IL-8, IL-6, and CCL-2 in SARS-CoV-2 infected Calu3 cells were significantly suppressed by NIT-X. By supporting protective immunity while inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines; inhibiting viral infection and replication; inducing apoptosis; and protecting against tissue damage, berberine is a promising candidate in preventing and treating COVID-19 and SARS. Given the high oral bioavailability and safety of berberine nanomedicine, the current study may lead to the development of berberine as an orally, active therapeutic against COVID-19 and SARS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen‐Zhen Wang
- Academy of Chinese Medical ScienceHenan University of Chinese MedicineZhengzhouChina
- Department of Microbiology & ImmunologyNew York Medical CollegeValhallaNYUSA
| | - Kun Li
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of IowaIowa CityIAUSA
| | - Anish R. Maskey
- Department of Microbiology & ImmunologyNew York Medical CollegeValhallaNYUSA
| | - Weihua Huang
- Department of PathologyNew York Medical CollegeValhallaNYUSA
| | | | - Nan Yang
- Department of Microbiology & ImmunologyNew York Medical CollegeValhallaNYUSA
- General Nutraceutical TechnologyElmsfordNYUSA
| | - Kamal Srivastava
- Department of Microbiology & ImmunologyNew York Medical CollegeValhallaNYUSA
- General Nutraceutical TechnologyElmsfordNYUSA
| | - Jan Geliebter
- Department of Microbiology & ImmunologyNew York Medical CollegeValhallaNYUSA
- Department of OtolaryngologySchool of MedicineNew York Medical CollegeValhallaNYUSA
| | - Raj Tiwari
- Department of Microbiology & ImmunologyNew York Medical CollegeValhallaNYUSA
- Department of OtolaryngologySchool of MedicineNew York Medical CollegeValhallaNYUSA
| | - Mingsan Miao
- Academy of Chinese Medical ScienceHenan University of Chinese MedicineZhengzhouChina
| | - Xiu‐Min Li
- Department of Microbiology & ImmunologyNew York Medical CollegeValhallaNYUSA
- Department of OtolaryngologySchool of MedicineNew York Medical CollegeValhallaNYUSA
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Abstract
IL-6 is involved both in immune responses and in inflammation, hematopoiesis, bone metabolism and embryonic development. IL-6 plays roles in chronic inflammation (closely related to chronic inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases and cancer) and even in the cytokine storm of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Acute inflammation during the immune response and wound healing is a well-controlled response, whereas chronic inflammation and the cytokine storm are uncontrolled inflammatory responses. Non-immune and immune cells, cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and transcription factors nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) play central roles in inflammation. Synergistic interactions between NF-κB and STAT3 induce the hyper-activation of NF-κB followed by the production of various inflammatory cytokines. Because IL-6 is an NF-κB target, simultaneous activation of NF-κB and STAT3 in non-immune cells triggers a positive feedback loop of NF-κB activation by the IL-6-STAT3 axis. This positive feedback loop is called the IL-6 amplifier (IL-6 Amp) and is a key player in the local initiation model, which states that local initiators, such as senescence, obesity, stressors, infection, injury and smoking, trigger diseases by promoting interactions between non-immune cells and immune cells. This model counters dogma that holds that autoimmunity and oncogenesis are triggered by the breakdown of tissue-specific immune tolerance and oncogenic mutations, respectively. The IL-6 Amp is activated by a variety of local initiators, demonstrating that the IL-6-STAT3 axis is a critical target for treating diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshio Hirano
- National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba, Japan
- Division of Molecular Psychoimmunology, Institute for Genetic Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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46
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A Randomized, Double-Blind, Multicenter Clinical Study Comparing the Efficacy and Safety of a Drug Combination of Lopinavir/Ritonavir-Azithromycin, Lopinavir/Ritonavir-Doxycycline, and Azithromycin-Hydroxychloroquine for Patients Diagnosed with Mild to Moderate COVID-19 Infections. Biochem Res Int 2021; 2021:6685921. [PMID: 33628506 PMCID: PMC7881739 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6685921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background At the present time, COVID-19 vaccines are at the testing stage, and an effective treatment for COVID-19 incorporating appropriate safety measures remains the most significant obstacle to be overcome. A strategic countermeasure is, therefore, urgently required. Aim This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a combination of lopinavir/ritonavir-azithromycin, lopinavir/ritonavir-doxycycline, and azithromycin-hydroxychloroquine used to treat patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 infections. Setting and Design. This study was conducted at four different clinical study sites in Indonesia. The subjects gave informed consent for their participation and were confirmed as being COVID-19-positive by means of an RT-PCR test. The present study constituted a randomized, double-blind, and multicenter clinical study of patients diagnosed with mild to moderate COVID-19 infection. Materials and Methods Six treatment groups participated in this study: a Control group administered with a 500 mg dose of azithromycin; Group A which received a 200/50 mg dose of lopinavir/ritonavir and 500 mg of azithromycin; Group B treated with a 200/50 mg dose of lopinavir/ritonavir and 200 mg of doxycycline; Group C administered with 200 mg of hydroxychloroquine and 500 mg of azithromycin; Group D which received a 400/100 mg dose of lopinavir/ritonavir and 500 mg of azithromycin; and Group E treated with a 400/100 mg dose of lopinavir/ritonavir and 200 mg of doxycycline. Results 754 subjects participated in this study: 694 patients (92.4%) who presented mild symptoms and 57 patients (7.6%) classified as suffering from a moderate case of COVID-19. On the third day after treatment, 91.7%–99.2% of the subjects in Groups A–E were confirmed negative by a PCR swab test compared to 26.9% in the Control group. Observation of all groups which experienced a significant decrease in virus load between day 1 and day 7 was undertaken. Other markers, such as CRP and IL-6, were significantly lower in all treatment groups (p < 0.05 and p < 0.0001) than in the Control group. Furthermore, IL-10 and TNF-α levels were significantly elevated in all treatment groups (p < 0.0001). The administration of azithromycin to the Control group increased CRP and IL-6 levels, while reduced IL-10 and TNF-α on day 7 (p < 0.0001) compared with day 1. Decreases in ALT and AST levels were observed in all groups (p < 0.0001). There was an increase in creatinine in the serum level of the Control, C, D, and E groups (p < 0.05), whereas the BUN level was elevated in all groups (p < 0.0001). Conclusions The study findings suggest that the administration of lopinavir/ritonavir-doxycycline, lopinavir/ritonavir-azithromycin, and azithromycin-hydroxychloroquine as a dual drug combination produced a significantly rapid PCR conversion rate to negative in three-day treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 cases. Further studies should involve observation of older patients with severe clinical symptoms in order to collate significant amounts of demographic data.
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Que Y, Hu C, Wan K, Hu P, Wang R, Luo J, Li T, Ping R, Hu Q, Sun Y, Wu X, Tu L, Du Y, Chang C, Xu G. Cytokine release syndrome in COVID-19: a major mechanism of morbidity and mortality. Int Rev Immunol 2021; 41:217-230. [PMID: 33616462 PMCID: PMC7919105 DOI: 10.1080/08830185.2021.1884248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) triggered by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) erupted in Hubei Province of China in December 2019 and has become a pandemic. Severe COVID-19 patients who suffer from acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and multi-organ dysfunction have high mortality. Several studies have shown that this is closely related to the cytokine release syndrome (CRS), often loosely referred to as cytokine storm. IL-6 is one of the key factors and its level is positively correlated with the severity of the disease. The molecular mechanisms for CRS in COVID-19 are related to the effects of the S-protein and N-protein of the virus and its ability to trigger NF-κB activation by disabling the inhibitory component IκB. This leads to activation of immune cells and the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α. Other mechanisms related to IL-6 include its interaction with GM-CSF and interferon responses. The pivotal role of IL-6 makes it a target for therapeutic agents and studies on tocilizumab are already ongoing. Other possible targets of treating CRS in COVID-19 include IL-1β and TNF-α. Recently, reports of a CRS like illness called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) in children have surfaced, with a variable presentation which in some cases resembles Kawasaki disease. It is likely that the immunological derangement and cytokine release occurring in COVID-19 cases is variable, or on a spectrum, that can potentially be governed by genetic factors. Currently, there are no approved biological modulators for the treatment of COVID-19, but the urgency of the pandemic has led to numerous clinical trials worldwide. Ultimately, there is great promise that an anti-inflammatory modulator targeting a cytokine storm effect may prove to be very beneficial in reducing morbidity and mortality in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Que
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Hu
- The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Kun Wan
- Medical Supplies Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Hu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Runsheng Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Jiang Luo
- The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Tianzhi Li
- The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Rongyu Ping
- Department of Neurology, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Qinyong Hu
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xudong Wu
- Department of Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lei Tu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Wuhan Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yingzhen Du
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Christopher Chang
- Division of Pediatric Immunology, Allergy and Rheumatology, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, Hollywood, Florida, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Guogang Xu
- The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
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48
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Darif D, Hammi I, Kihel A, El Idrissi Saik I, Guessous F, Akarid K. The pro-inflammatory cytokines in COVID-19 pathogenesis: What goes wrong? Microb Pathog 2021; 153:104799. [PMID: 33609650 PMCID: PMC7889464 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.104799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, has emerged in China in December 2019 and rapidly spread to more than 196 countries worldwide. The physiopathology of human SARS-CoV-2 has not been completely understood, but its pathogenesis has been linked to a disproportionate response of the immune system. Just as described for SARS and MERS, an uncontrolled systemic inflammatory response, known as cytokine release syndrome (CRS) was observed in severe COVID-19 patients. It results from the release by immune and non-immune effector cells of substantial amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines and appears to contribute to SARS-CoV-2 pulmonary inflammation and extensive lung damage. In addition, hyper-coagulation and thrombosis resulted from the important release of pro-inflammatory cytokines contribute to the lethality of subjects severely infected with SARS-CoV-2. It is therefore essential to have a deep understanding of the various cytokines involved in this exacerbated immune response, and that could be targeted by potential immunological treatments. The aim of this review was to gather the current knowledge about the role of pro-inflammatory cytokines, namely IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17 and TNFα in SARS-CoV-2 CRS, the probable causes and clinical outcomes of this phenomenon in severe cases of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dounia Darif
- Molecular Genetics and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Health and Environment Laboratory, Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C), Morocco
| | - Ikram Hammi
- Molecular Genetics and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Health and Environment Laboratory, Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C), Morocco
| | - Ayyoub Kihel
- Molecular Genetics and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Health and Environment Laboratory, Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C), Morocco
| | - Imane El Idrissi Saik
- Immunopathology of Infectious and Systemic Diseases, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, UH2C, Morocco
| | - Fadila Guessous
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences, Casablanca, Morocco; Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Khadija Akarid
- Molecular Genetics and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Health and Environment Laboratory, Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C), Morocco.
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Fiorino S, Zippi M, Gallo C, Sifo D, Sabbatani S, Manfredi R, Rasciti E, Rasciti L, Giampieri E, Corazza I, Leandri P, de Biase D. The rationale for a multi-step therapeutic approach based on antivirals, drugs and nutrients with immunomodulatory activity in patients with coronavirus-SARS2-induced disease of different severities. Br J Nutr 2021; 125:275-293. [PMID: 32703328 PMCID: PMC7431858 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114520002913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In December 2019, a novel human-infecting coronavirus, named Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was recognised to cause a pneumonia epidemic outbreak with different degrees of severity in Wuhan, Hubei Province in China. Since then, this epidemic has spread worldwide; in Europe, Italy has been involved. Effective preventive and therapeutic strategies are absolutely required to block this serious public health concern. Unfortunately, few studies about SARS-CoV-2 concerning its immunopathogenesis and treatment are available. On the basis of the assumption that the SARS-CoV-2 is genetically related to SARS-CoV (about 82 % of genome homology) and that its characteristics, like the modality of transmission or the type of the immune response it may stimulate, are still poorly known, a literature search was performed to identify the reports assessing these elements in patients with SARS-CoV-induced infection. Therefore, we have analysed: (1) the structure of SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV; (2) the clinical signs and symptoms and pathogenic mechanisms observed during the development of acute respiratory syndrome and the cytokine release syndrome; (3) the modification of the cell microRNome and of the immune response in patients with SARS infection; and (4) the possible role of some fat-soluble compounds (such as vitamins A, D and E) in modulating directly or indirectly the replication ability of SARS-CoV-2 and host immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Medicine Department, Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Budrio, 40054 Bologna, Italy
- Medicine Department, Internal Medicine Unit C, Maggiore Hospital Azienda USL, 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Maddalena Zippi
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, 00100 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Gallo
- Medicine Department, Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Budrio, 40054 Bologna, Italy
| | - Debora Sifo
- Medicine Department, Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Budrio, 40054 Bologna, Italy
| | - Sergio Sabbatani
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Infective Disease Unit, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, University of Bologna, 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Manfredi
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Infective Disease Unit, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, University of Bologna, 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Edoardo Rasciti
- Unit of Radiodiagnostics, Ospedale degli Infermi, 48018 Faenza, AUSL Romagna, Italy
| | - Leonardo Rasciti
- Medicine Department, Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Budrio, 40054 Bologna, Italy
| | - Enrico Giampieri
- Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department, University of Bologna, 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Ivan Corazza
- Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department, University of Bologna, 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Leandri
- Medicine Department, Internal Medicine Unit C, Maggiore Hospital Azienda USL, 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40100 Bologna, Italy
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50
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Karwaciak I, Sałkowska A, Karaś K, Dastych J, Ratajewski M. Nucleocapsid and Spike Proteins of the Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 Induce IL6 in Monocytes and Macrophages-Potential Implications for Cytokine Storm Syndrome. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:54. [PMID: 33467724 PMCID: PMC7830532 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9010054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The pandemic of the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) has led to the deaths of more than 1.5 million people worldwide. SARS-CoV-2 causes COVID-19, which exhibits wide variation in the course of disease in different people, ranging from asymptomatic and mild courses to very severe courses that can result in respiratory failure and death. Despite the rapid progression of knowledge, we still do not know how individual cells of the immune system interact with the virus or its components, or how immune homeostasis becomes disrupted, leading to the rapid deterioration of a patient's condition. In the present work, we show that SARS-CoV-2 proteins induce the expression and secretion of IL-6 by human monocytes and macrophages, the first line cells of antiviral immune responses. IL-6 may play a negative role in the course of COVID-19 by inhibiting Th1-dependent immunity and stimulating Th17 lymphocytes, thus leading to an increased probability of a cytokine storm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Karwaciak
- Laboratory of Transcriptional Regulation, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 93-232 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Anna Sałkowska
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 93-232 Lodz, Poland; (A.S.); (K.K.)
| | - Kaja Karaś
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 93-232 Lodz, Poland; (A.S.); (K.K.)
| | - Jarosław Dastych
- Laboratory of Cellular Immunology, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 93-232 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Marcin Ratajewski
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 93-232 Lodz, Poland; (A.S.); (K.K.)
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