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Rastegar-Pouyani N, Dongsar TS, Ataei M, Hassani S, Gumpricht E, Kesharwani P, Sahebkar A. An overview of the efficacy of inhaled curcumin: a new mode of administration for an old molecule. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024. [PMID: 38771504 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2358880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Curcumin is a polyphenol with a variety of pharmacological actions. Despite its therapeutic effects and well-known safety profile, the utility of curcumin has been limited due to its deprived physical, chemical, and pharmacokinetic profile resulting from limited solubility, durability, prompt deterioration and pitiable systemic availability. Employment of an amalgamated framework integrating the potential advantages of a nanoscaffold alongside the beneficial traits of inhalational drug delivery system beautifully bringing down the restricting attributes of intended curative interventions and further assures its clinical success. AREAS COVERED Current review discussed different application of inhalable nanocurcumin in different medical conditions. Lung diseases have been the prime field in which inhalable nanocurcumin had resulted in significant beneficial effects. Apart from this several lung protective potentials of the inhaled nanocurcumin have been discussed against severe pulmonary disorders such as pulmonary fibrosis, radiation pneumonitis and IUGR induced bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Also, application of the disclosed intervention in the clinical management of COVID-19 and Alzheimer's Disease has been discussed. EXPERT OPINION In this portion, the potential of inhalable nanocurcumin in addressing various medical conditions along with ongoing advancements in nanoencapsulation techniques and the existing challenges in transitioning from pre-clinical models to clinical practice has been summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Rastegar-Pouyani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Tenzin Sonam Dongsar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Mahshid Ataei
- Toxicology and Diseases Specialty Group, Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center (PSRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Shokoufeh Hassani
- Toxicology and Diseases Specialty Group, Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center (PSRC), The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Eric Gumpricht
- Department of Pharmacology, Isagenix International, LLC, Gilbert, Arizona, AZ, USA
| | - Prashant Kesharwani
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Sun Q, Gao J, An R, Wang M, Wang Y. Probing molecular pathways: Illuminating the connection between COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease through the endocannabinoid system dynamics. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29590. [PMID: 38619024 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29590] [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: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Our study investigates the molecular link between COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease (AD). We aim to elucidate the mechanisms by which COVID-19 may influence the onset or progression of AD. Using bioinformatic tools, we analyzed gene expression datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, including GSE147507, GSE12685, and GSE26927. Intersection analysis was utilized to identify common differentially expressed genes (CDEGs) and their shared biological pathways. Consensus clustering was conducted to group AD patients based on gene expression, followed by an analysis of the immune microenvironment and variations in shared pathway activities between clusters. Additionally, we identified transcription factor-binding sites shared by CDEGs and genes in the common pathway. The activity of the pathway and the expression levels of the CDEGs were validated using GSE164805 and GSE48350 datasets. Six CDEGs (MAL2, NECAB1, SH3GL2, EPB41L3, MEF2C, and NRGN) were identified, along with a downregulated pathway, the endocannabinoid (ECS) signaling pathway, common to both AD and COVID-19. These CDEGs showed a significant correlation with ECS activity (p < 0.05) and immune functions. The ECS pathway was enriched in healthy individuals' brains and downregulated in AD patients. Validation using GSE164805 and GSE48350 datasets confirmed the differential expression of these genes in COVID-19 and AD tissues. Our findings reveal a potential pathogenetic link between COVID-19 and AD, mediated by CDEGs and the ECS pathway. However, further research and multicenter evidence are needed to translate these findings into clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyuan Sun
- The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jinyang Gao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ran An
- The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Menggeer Wang
- The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yanqing Wang
- The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
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Cappelletti P, Gallo G, Marino R, Palaniappan S, Corbo M, Savoia C, Feligioni M. From cardiovascular system to brain, the potential protective role of Mas Receptors in COVID-19 infection. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 959:176061. [PMID: 37775018 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been declared a new pandemic in March 2020. Although most patients are asymptomatic, those with underlying cardiovascular comorbidities may develop a more severe systemic infection which is often associated with fatal pneumonia. Nonetheless, neurological and cardiovascular manifestations could be present even without respiratory symptoms. To date, no COVID-19-specific drugs are able for preventing or treating the infection and generally, the symptoms are relieved with general anti-inflammatory drugs. Angiotensin-converting-enzyme 2 (ACE2) may function as the receptor for virus entry within the cells favoring the progression of infection in the organism. On the other hand, ACE2 is a relevant enzyme in renin angiotensin system (RAS) cascade fostering Ang1-7/Mas receptor activation which promotes protective effects in neurological and cardiovascular systems. It is known that RAS is composed by two functional countervailing axes the ACE/AngII/AT1 receptor and the ACE/AngII/AT2 receptor which counteracts the actions mediated by AngII/AT1 receptor by inducing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-growth functions. Subsequently an "alternative" ACE2/Ang1-7/Mas receptor axis has been described with functions similar to the latter protective arm. Here, we discuss the neurological and cardiovascular effects of COVID-19 highlighting the role of the stimulation of the RAS "alternative" protective arm in attenuating pulmonary, cerebral and cardiovascular damages. In conclusion, only two clinical trials are running for Mas receptor agonists but few other molecules are in preclinical phase and if successful these drugs might represent a successful strategy for the treatment of the acute phase of COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Cappelletti
- Department of Neuro-Rehabilitation Sciences, Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Gallo
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rachele Marino
- European Brain Research Institute (EBRI) Rita Levi Montalcini Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Corbo
- Department of Neuro-Rehabilitation Sciences, Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy
| | - Carmine Savoia
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Feligioni
- Department of Neuro-Rehabilitation Sciences, Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy; European Brain Research Institute (EBRI) Rita Levi Montalcini Foundation, Rome, Italy.
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Jamil Al-Obaidi MM, Desa MNM. A review of the mechanisms of blood-brain barrier disruption during COVID-19 infection. J Neurosci Res 2023; 101:1687-1698. [PMID: 37462109 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Coronaviruses are prevalent in mammals and birds, including humans and bats, and they often spread through airborne droplets. In humans, these droplets then interact with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), which are the main receptors for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It can infect several organs, including the brain. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is designed to maintain the homeostatic neural microenvironment of the brain, which is necessary for healthy neuronal activity, function, and stability. It prevents viruses from entering the brain parenchyma and does not easily allow chemicals to pass into the brain while assisting numerous compounds in exiting the brain. The purpose of this review was to examine how COVID-19 influences the BBB along with the mechanisms that indicate the BBB's deterioration. In addition, the cellular mechanism through which SARS-CoV-2 causes BBB destruction by binding to ACE2 was evaluated and addressed. The mechanisms of the immunological reaction that occurs during COVID-19 infection that may contribute to the breakdown of the BBB were also reviewed. It was discovered that the integrity of the tight junction (TJs), basement membrane, and adhesion molecules was damaged during COVID-19 infection, which led to the breakdown of the BBB. Therefore, understanding how the BBB is disrupted by COVID-19 infection will provide an indication of how the SARS-CoV-2 virus is able to reach the central nervous system (CNS). The findings of this research may help in the identification of treatment options for COVID-19 that can control and manage the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazen M Jamil Al-Obaidi
- Biology Unit, Science Department, Rustaq College of Education, University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Al-Rustaq, Oman
| | - Mohd Nasir Mohd Desa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
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Sfera A, Rahman L, Zapata-Martín Del Campo CM, Kozlakidis Z. Long COVID as a Tauopathy: Of "Brain Fog" and "Fusogen Storms". Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12648. [PMID: 37628830 PMCID: PMC10454863 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612648] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Long COVID, also called post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2, is characterized by a multitude of lingering symptoms, including impaired cognition, that can last for many months. This symptom, often called "brain fog", affects the life quality of numerous individuals, increasing medical complications as well as healthcare expenditures. The etiopathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2-induced cognitive deficit is unclear, but the most likely cause is chronic inflammation maintained by a viral remnant thriving in select body reservoirs. These viral sanctuaries are likely comprised of fused, senescent cells, including microglia and astrocytes, that the pathogen can convert into neurotoxic phenotypes. Moreover, as the enteric nervous system contains neurons and glia, the virus likely lingers in the gastrointestinal tract as well, accounting for the intestinal symptoms of long COVID. Fusogens are proteins that can overcome the repulsive forces between cell membranes, allowing the virus to coalesce with host cells and enter the cytoplasm. In the intracellular compartment, the pathogen hijacks the actin cytoskeleton, fusing host cells with each other and engendering pathological syncytia. Cell-cell fusion enables the virus to infect the healthy neighboring cells. We surmise that syncytia formation drives cognitive impairment by facilitating the "seeding" of hyperphosphorylated Tau, documented in COVID-19. In our previous work, we hypothesized that the SARS-CoV-2 virus induces premature endothelial senescence, increasing the permeability of the intestinal and blood-brain barrier. This enables the migration of gastrointestinal tract microbes and/or their components into the host circulation, eventually reaching the brain where they may induce cognitive dysfunction. For example, translocated lipopolysaccharides or microbial DNA can induce Tau hyperphosphorylation, likely accounting for memory problems. In this perspective article, we examine the pathogenetic mechanisms and potential biomarkers of long COVID, including microbial cell-free DNA, interleukin 22, and phosphorylated Tau, as well as the beneficial effect of transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adonis Sfera
- Paton State Hospital, 3102 Highland Ave, Patton, CA 92369, USA
- School of Behavioral Health, Loma Linda University, 11139 Anderson St., Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Riverside 900 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Leah Rahman
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, 222 Huestis Hall, Eugene, OR 97401, USA
| | | | - Zisis Kozlakidis
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization, 69000 Lyon, France
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Ghotbi Z, Estakhr M, Hosseini M, Shahripour RB. Cerebral Vasomotor Reactivity in COVID-19: A Narrative Review. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1614. [PMID: 37511989 PMCID: PMC10381148 DOI: 10.3390/life13071614] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) primarily affects the respiratory system but can also lead to neurological complications. Among COVID-19 patients, the endothelium is considered the Achilles heel. A variety of endothelial dysfunctions may result from SARS-CoV-2 infection and subsequent endotheliitis, such as altered vascular tone, oxidative stress, and cytokine storms. The cerebral hemodynamic impairment that is caused is associated with a higher probability of severe disease and poor outcomes in patients with COVID-19. This review summarizes the most relevant literature on the role of vasomotor reactivity (VMR) in COVID-19 patients. An overview of the research articles is presented. Most of the studies have supported the hypothesis that endothelial dysfunction and cerebral VMR impairment occur in COVID-19 patients. Researchers believe these alterations may be due to direct viral invasion of the brain or indirect effects, such as inflammation and cytokines. Recently, researchers have concluded that viruses such as the Human Herpes Virus 8 and the Hantavirus predominantly affect endothelial cells and, therefore, affect cerebral hemodynamics. Especially in COVID-19 patients, impaired VMR is associated with a higher risk of severe disease and poor outcomes. Using VMR, one can gain valuable insight into a patient's disease progression and make more informed decisions regarding appropriate treatment options. A new pandemic may develop with the COVID-19 virus or other viruses, making it essential that healthcare providers and researchers remain focused on developing new strategies for improving survival in such patients, particularly those with cerebrovascular risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Ghotbi
- Clinical Neurology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz P.O. Box 71348-14336, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Estakhr
- Clinical Neurology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz P.O. Box 71348-14336, Iran
| | - Melika Hosseini
- Comprehensive Stroke Center, Department of Neurosciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | - Reza Bavarsad Shahripour
- Comprehensive Stroke Center, Department of Neurosciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
- UCSD Comprehensive Stroke Center, Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
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SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Induces Hemagglutination: Implications for COVID-19 Morbidities and Therapeutics and for Vaccine Adverse Effects. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415480. [PMID: 36555121 PMCID: PMC9779393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental findings for SARS-CoV-2 related to the glycan biochemistry of coronaviruses indicate that attachments from spike protein to glycoconjugates on the surfaces of red blood cells (RBCs), other blood cells and endothelial cells are key to the infectivity and morbidity of COVID-19. To provide further insight into these glycan attachments and their potential clinical relevance, the classic hemagglutination (HA) assay was applied using spike protein from the Wuhan, Alpha, Delta and Omicron B.1.1.529 lineages of SARS-CoV-2 mixed with human RBCs. The electrostatic potential of the central region of spike protein from these four lineages was studied through molecular modeling simulations. Inhibition of spike protein-induced HA was tested using the macrocyclic lactone ivermectin (IVM), which is indicated to bind strongly to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein glycan sites. The results of these experiments were, first, that spike protein from these four lineages of SARS-CoV-2 induced HA. Omicron induced HA at a significantly lower threshold concentration of spike protein than the three prior lineages and was much more electropositive on its central spike protein region. IVM blocked HA when added to RBCs prior to spike protein and reversed HA when added afterward. These results validate and extend prior findings on the role of glycan bindings of viral spike protein in COVID-19. They furthermore suggest therapeutic options using competitive glycan-binding agents such as IVM and may help elucidate rare serious adverse effects (AEs) associated with COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, which use spike protein as the generated antigen.
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Kumar S, Karuppanan K, Subramaniam G. Omicron (BA.1) and sub-variants (BA.1.1, BA.2, and BA.3) of SARS-CoV-2 spike infectivity and pathogenicity: A comparative sequence and structural-based computational assessment. J Med Virol 2022; 94:4780-4791. [PMID: 35680610 PMCID: PMC9347785 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.27927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The Omicron variant of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has now spread throughout the world. We used computational tools to assess the spike infectivity, transmission, and pathogenicity of Omicron (BA.1) and sub-variants (BA.1.1, BA.2, and BA.3) in this study. BA.1 has 39 mutations, BA.1.1 has 40 mutations, BA.2 has 31 mutations, and BA.3 has 34 mutations, with 21 shared mutations between all. We observed 11 common mutations in Omicron's receptor-binding domain (RBD) and sub-variants. In pathogenicity analysis, the Y505H, N786K, T95I, N211I, N856K, and V213R mutations in omicron and sub-variants are predicted to be deleterious. Due to the major effect of the mutations characterizing in the RBD, we found that Omicron and sub-variants had a higher positive electrostatic surface potential. This could increase interaction between RBD and negative electrostatic surface potential human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2). Omicron and sub-variants had a higher affinity for hACE2 and the potential for increased transmission when compared to the wild-type (WT). Negative electrostatic potential of N-terminal domain (NTD) of the spike protein value indicates that the Omicron variant binds receptors less efficiently than the WT. Given that at least one receptor is highly expressed in lung and bronchial cells, the electrostatic potential of NTD negative value could be one of the factors contributing to why the Omicron variant is thought to be less harmful to the lower respiratory tract. Among Omicron sub-lineages, BA.2 and BA.3 have a higher transmission potential than BA.1 and BA.1.1. We predicted that mutated residues in BA.1.1 (K478), BA.2 (R400, R490, and R495), and BA.3 (R397 and H499) formation of new salt bridges and hydrogen bonds. Omicron and sub-variant mutations at Receptor-binding Motif (RBM) residues such as Q493R, N501Y, Q498, T478K, and Y505H all contribute significantly to binding affinity with human ACE2. Interactions with Omicron variant mutations at residues 493, 496, 498, and 501 seem to restore ACE2 binding effectiveness lost due to other mutations like K417N.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Kumar
- Department of Diagnostic & Allied Health Science, Faculty of Health and Life SciencesManagement and Science UniversityShah AlamSelangorMalaysia
| | - Kalimuthu Karuppanan
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, Wellcome Centre for Human GeneticsUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
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Zoran MA, Savastru RS, Savastru DM, Tautan MN. Cumulative effects of air pollution and climate drivers on COVID-19 multiwaves in Bucharest, Romania. PROCESS SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION : TRANSACTIONS OF THE INSTITUTION OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERS, PART B 2022; 166:368-383. [PMID: 36034108 PMCID: PMC9391082 DOI: 10.1016/j.psep.2022.08.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Over more than two years of global health crisis due to ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Romania experienced a five-wave pattern. This study aims to assess the potential impact of environmental drivers on COVID-19 transmission in Bucharest, capital of Romania during the analyzed epidemic period. Through descriptive statistics and cross-correlation tests applied to time series of daily observational and geospatial data of major outdoor inhalable particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤ 2.5 µm (PM2.5) or ≤ 10 µm (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), Aerosol Optical Depth at 550 nm (AOD) and radon (222Rn), we investigated the COVID-19 waves patterns under different meteorological conditions. This study examined the contribution of individual climate variables on the ground level air pollutants concentrations and COVID-19 disease severity. As compared to the long-term average AOD over Bucharest from 2015 to 2019, for the same year periods, this study revealed major AOD level reduction by ~28 % during the spring lockdown of the first COVID-19 wave (15 March 2020-15 May 2020), and ~16 % during the third COVID-19 wave (1 February 2021-1 June 2021). This study found positive correlations between exposure to air pollutants PM2.5, PM10, NO2, SO2, CO and 222Rn, and significant negative correlations, especially for spring-summer periods between ground O3 levels, air temperature, Planetary Boundary Layer height, and surface solar irradiance with COVID-19 incidence and deaths. For the analyzed time period 1 January 2020-1 April 2022, before and during each COVID-19 wave were recorded stagnant synoptic anticyclonic conditions favorable for SARS-CoV-2 virus spreading, with positive Omega surface charts composite average (Pa/s) at 850 mb during fall- winter seasons, clearly evidenced for the second, the fourth and the fifth waves. These findings are relevant for viral infections controls and health safety strategies design in highly polluted urban environments.
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Key Words
- 222Rn
- 222Rn, Radon
- AOD, Total Aerosol Optical Depth at 550 nm
- Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD)
- CAMS, Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service
- CO, Carbon monoxide
- COVID, 19 Coronavirus Disease 2019
- COVID-19 disease
- Climate variables
- DNC, Daily New COVID-19 positive cases
- DND, Daily New COVID-19 Deaths
- MERS, CoV Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus
- NO2, Nitrogen dioxide
- NOAA, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration U.S.A.
- O3, Ozone
- Outdoor air pollutants
- PBL, Planetary Boundary Layer height
- PM, Particulate Matter: PM1(1 µm), PM2.5 (2.5 µm) and PM10(10.0 µm) diameter
- RH, Air relative humidity
- SARS, CoV Severe Outdoor Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus
- SARS, CoV-2 Severe Outdoor Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2
- SI, Surface solar global irradiance
- SO2, Sulfur dioxide
- Synoptic meteorological circulation
- T, Air temperature at 2 m height
- p, Air pressure
- w, Wind speed intensity
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Zoran
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele, Bucharest 077125, Romania
| | - Roxana S Savastru
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele, Bucharest 077125, Romania
| | - Dan M Savastru
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele, Bucharest 077125, Romania
| | - Marina N Tautan
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele, Bucharest 077125, Romania
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Zoran MA, Savastru RS, Savastru DM, Tautan MN. Impacts of exposure to air pollution, radon and climate drivers on the COVID-19 pandemic in Bucharest, Romania: A time series study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 212:113437. [PMID: 35594963 PMCID: PMC9113773 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
During the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic disease, like several countries, Romania experienced a multiwaves pattern over more than two years. The spreading pattern of SARS-CoV-2 pathogens in the Bucharest, capital of Romania is a multi-factorial process involving among other factors outdoor environmental variables and viral inactivation. Through descriptive statistics and cross-correlation analysis applied to daily time series of observational and geospatial data, this study aims to evaluate the synergy of COVID-19 incidence and lethality with air pollution and radon under different climate conditions, which may exacerbate the coronavirus' effect on human health. During the entire analyzed period 1 January 2020-21 December 2021, for each of the four COVID-19 waves were recorded different anomalous anticyclonic synoptic meteorological patterns in the mid-troposphere, and favorable stability conditions during fall-early winter seasons for COVID-19 disease fast-spreading, mostly during the second, and the fourth waves. As the temporal pattern of airborne SARS-CoV-2 and its mutagen variants is affected by seasonal variability of the main air pollutants and climate parameters, this paper found: 1) the daily outdoor exposures to air pollutants (particulate matter PM2.5 and PM10, nitrogen dioxide-NO2, sulfur dioxide-SO2, carbon monoxide-CO) and radon - 222Rn, are directly correlated with the daily COVID-19 incidence and mortality, and may contribute to the spread and the severity of the pandemic; 2) the daily ground ozone-O3 levels, air temperature, Planetary Boundary Layer height, and surface solar irradiance are anticorrelated with the daily new COVID-19 incidence and deaths, averageingful for spring-summer periods. Outdoor exposure to ambient air pollution associated with radon is a non-negligible driver of COVID-19 transmission in large metropolitan areas, and climate variables are risk factors in spreading the viral infection. The findings of this study provide useful information for public health authorities and decision-makers to develop future pandemic diseases strategies in high polluted metropolitan environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Zoran
- National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Bucharest, Magurele, Romania.
| | - Roxana S Savastru
- National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Bucharest, Magurele, Romania
| | - Dan M Savastru
- National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Bucharest, Magurele, Romania
| | - Marina N Tautan
- National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Bucharest, Magurele, Romania
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11
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Dutta S, Panthi B, Chandra A. All-Atom Simulations of Human ACE2-Spike Protein RBD Complexes for SARS-CoV-2 and Some of its Variants: Nature of Interactions and Free Energy Diagrams for Dissociation of the Protein Complexes. J Phys Chem B 2022; 126:5375-5389. [PMID: 35833966 PMCID: PMC9328126 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.2c00833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 is known to interact with the human ACE2 protein via its receptor binding domain (RBD). We have investigated the molecular nature of this interprotein interaction and the associated free energy diagrams for the unbinding of the two proteins for SARS-CoV-2 and some of its known variants through all-atom simulations. The present work involves generation and analysis of 2.5 μs of unbiased and 4.2 μs of biased molecular dynamics trajectories in total for five explicitly solvated RBD-ACE2 systems at full atomic level. First, we have made a comparative analysis of the details of residue-wise specific interactions of the spike protein with ACE2 for SARS-CoV-1 and SARS-CoV-2. It is found that the average numbers of both direct interprotein and water-bridged hydrogen bonds between the RBD and ACE2 are higher for SARS-CoV-2 than SARS-CoV-1. These higher hydrogen bonded interactions are further aided by enhanced nonspecific electrostatic attractions between the two protein surfaces for SARS-CoV-2. The free energy calculations reveal that there is an increase in the free energy barrier by ∼1.5 kcal/mol for the unbinding of RBD from ACE2 for SARS-CoV-2 compared to that for SARS-CoV-1. Subsequently, we considered the RBDs of three variants of SARS-CoV-2, namely N501Y, E484Q/L452R, and N440K. The free energy barrier of protein unbinding for the N501Y variant is found to be ∼4 kcal/mol higher than the wild type SARS-CoV-2 which can be attributed to additional specific interactions involving Tyr501 of RBD and Lys353 and Tyr42 of ACE2 and also enhanced nonspecific electrostatic interaction between the protein surfaces. For the other two mutant variants of E484Q/L452R and N440K, the free energy barrier for protein unbinding increases by ∼2 and ∼1 kcal/mol, respectively, compared with the wild type SARS-CoV-2, which can be attributed to an increase in the number of interprotein hydrogen bonds for the former and also to enhanced positive electrostatic potential on the RBD surfaces for both of the variants. The successive breaking of interprotein hydrogen bonds along the free energy pathway of the unbinding process is also found out for all five systems studied here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saheb Dutta
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016, India
| | - Bhavana Panthi
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016, India
| | - Amalendu Chandra
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016, India
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12
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Gao K, Wang R, Chen J, Cheng L, Frishcosy J, Huzumi Y, Qiu Y, Schluckbier T, Wei X, Wei GW. Methodology-Centered Review of Molecular Modeling, Simulation, and Prediction of SARS-CoV-2. Chem Rev 2022; 122:11287-11368. [PMID: 35594413 PMCID: PMC9159519 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite tremendous efforts in the past two years, our understanding of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), virus-host interactions, immune response, virulence, transmission, and evolution is still very limited. This limitation calls for further in-depth investigation. Computational studies have become an indispensable component in combating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to their low cost, their efficiency, and the fact that they are free from safety and ethical constraints. Additionally, the mechanism that governs the global evolution and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 cannot be revealed from individual experiments and was discovered by integrating genotyping of massive viral sequences, biophysical modeling of protein-protein interactions, deep mutational data, deep learning, and advanced mathematics. There exists a tsunami of literature on the molecular modeling, simulations, and predictions of SARS-CoV-2 and related developments of drugs, vaccines, antibodies, and diagnostics. To provide readers with a quick update about this literature, we present a comprehensive and systematic methodology-centered review. Aspects such as molecular biophysics, bioinformatics, cheminformatics, machine learning, and mathematics are discussed. This review will be beneficial to researchers who are looking for ways to contribute to SARS-CoV-2 studies and those who are interested in the status of the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaifu Gao
- Department
of Mathematics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Rui Wang
- Department
of Mathematics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Jiahui Chen
- Department
of Mathematics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Limei Cheng
- Clinical
Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, Bristol
Myers Squibb, Princeton, New Jersey 08536, United States
| | - Jaclyn Frishcosy
- Department
of Mathematics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Yuta Huzumi
- Department
of Mathematics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Yuchi Qiu
- Department
of Mathematics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Tom Schluckbier
- Department
of Mathematics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Xiaoqi Wei
- Department
of Mathematics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Guo-Wei Wei
- Department
of Mathematics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
- Department
of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
- Department
of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan
State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
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13
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Sodagar A, Javed R, Tahir H, Razak SIA, Shakir M, Naeem M, Yusof AHA, Sagadevan S, Hazafa A, Uddin J, Khan A, Al-Harrasi A. Pathological Features and Neuroinflammatory Mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 in the Brain and Potential Therapeutic Approaches. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12070971. [PMID: 35883527 PMCID: PMC9313047 DOI: 10.3390/biom12070971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of deaths has been increased due to COVID-19 infections and uncertain neurological complications associated with the central nervous system. Post-infections and neurological manifestations in neuronal tissues caused by COVID-19 are still unknown and there is a need to explore how brainstorming promoted congenital impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. SARS-CoV-2 neuro-invasion studies in vivo are still rare, despite the fact that other beta-coronaviruses have shown similar properties. Neural (olfactory or vagal) and hematogenous (crossing the blood–brain barrier) pathways have been hypothesized in light of new evidence showing the existence of SARS-CoV-2 host cell entry receptors into the specific components of human nerve and vascular tissue. Spike proteins are the primary key and structural component of the COVID-19 that promotes the infection into brain cells. Neurological manifestations and serious neurodegeneration occur through the binding of spike proteins to ACE2 receptor. The emerging evidence reported that, due to the high rate in the immediate wake of viral infection, the olfactory bulb, thalamus, and brain stem are intensely infected through a trans-synaptic transfer of the virus. It also instructs the release of chemokines, cytokines, and inflammatory signals immensely to the blood–brain barrier and infects the astrocytes, which causes neuroinflammation and neuron death; and this induction of excessive inflammation and immune response developed in more neurodegeneration complications. The present review revealed the pathophysiological effects, molecular, and cellular mechanisms of possible entry routes into the brain, pathogenicity of autoantibodies and emerging immunotherapies against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha Sodagar
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan;
| | - Rasab Javed
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan;
| | - Hira Tahir
- Department of Botany, Government College Women University Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan;
| | - Saiful Izwan Abd Razak
- Bioinspired Device and Tissue Engineering Research Group, School of Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor Bahru 81310, Johor, Malaysia;
- Sports Innovation & Technology Centre, Institute of Human Centred Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor Bahru 81310, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Shakir
- School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China;
| | - Muhammad Naeem
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, China;
| | - Abdul Halim Abdul Yusof
- School of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor Bahru 81310, Johor, Malaysia;
| | - Suresh Sagadevan
- Nanotechnology & Catalysis Research Centre, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia;
| | - Abu Hazafa
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan
- Correspondence: or (A.H.); (A.K.); (A.A.-H.)
| | - Jalal Uddin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ajmal Khan
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Birkat Al Mauz, Nizwa 616, Oman
- Correspondence: or (A.H.); (A.K.); (A.A.-H.)
| | - Ahmed Al-Harrasi
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Birkat Al Mauz, Nizwa 616, Oman
- Correspondence: or (A.H.); (A.K.); (A.A.-H.)
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14
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Yoshizato K, Taira T, Sato-Matsubara M, Sekiguchi S, Yabunaka Y, Kira Y, Ohashi T, Daikoku A, Ofusa K, Kadono C, Oikawa D, Matsubara T, Nakagama Y, Kido Y, Tokunaga F, Ikeda K, Kaneko A, Kawada N. Cloaking the ACE2 receptor with salivary cationic proteins inhibits SARS-CoV-2 entry. J Biochem 2022; 172:205-216. [PMID: 35792074 PMCID: PMC9278198 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvac054] [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: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Saliva contributes to the innate immune system, which suggests that it can prevent SARS-CoV-2 entry. We studied the ability of healthy salivary proteins to bind to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) using biolayer interferometry and pull-down assays. Their effects on binding between the receptor-binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein S1 (S1) and ACE2 were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Saliva bound to ACE2 and disrupted the binding of S1 to ACE2 and four ACE2-binding salivary proteins were identified, including cationic histone H2A and neutrophil elastase, which inhibited the S1-ACE2 interaction. Calf thymus histone (ct-histone) also inhibited binding as effectively as histone H2A. The results of a cell-based infection assay indicated that ct-histone suppressed SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviral invasion into ACE2-expressing host cells. Manufactured polypeptides, such as ε-poly-L-lysine, also disrupted S1-ACE2 binding, indicating the importance of the cationic properties of salivary proteins in ACE2 binding. Overall, we demonstrated that positively-charged salivary proteins are a barrier against SARS-CoV-2 entry by cloaking the negatively-charged surface of ACE2, and provided a view that the cationic polypeptides represent a preventative and therapeutic treatment against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsutoshi Yoshizato
- Osaka Metropolitan University Donated Laboratory for Synthetic Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
- Osaka Metropolitan University BioIntegrence Co., Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Toshio Taira
- Sapporo Division, Cosmo Bio Co., Ltd. , Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0261, Japan
| | - Misako Sato-Matsubara
- Osaka Metropolitan University Donated Laboratory for Synthetic Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
- Osaka Metropolitan University Department of Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Shizuko Sekiguchi
- Sapporo Division, Cosmo Bio Co., Ltd. , Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0261, Japan
| | - Yoriko Yabunaka
- Osaka Metropolitan University Department of Research Support Platform, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Yukimi Kira
- Osaka Metropolitan University Department of Research Support Platform, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Tetsu Ohashi
- Sapporo Division, Cosmo Bio Co., Ltd. , Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0261, Japan
| | - Atsuko Daikoku
- Osaka Metropolitan University Anatomy and Regenerative Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Ken Ofusa
- Osaka Metropolitan University Laboratory of Foods and Life Sciences, IDEA Consultants, Inc., Osaka, Osaka 559-8519, Japan; 8 Department of Pathobiochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Chiho Kadono
- Osaka Metropolitan University Donated Laboratory for Synthetic Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
- Osaka Metropolitan University Department of Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Daisuke Oikawa
- Osaka Metropolitan University Department of Parasitology and Research Center for Infectious Disease Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Matsubara
- Osaka Metropolitan University Anatomy and Regenerative Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Yu Nakagama
- Osaka Metropolitan University Department of Parasitology and Research Center for Infectious Disease Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Yasutoshi Kido
- Osaka Metropolitan University Department of Parasitology and Research Center for Infectious Disease Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Fuminori Tokunaga
- Osaka Metropolitan University Department of Parasitology and Research Center for Infectious Disease Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Kazuo Ikeda
- Osaka Metropolitan University Anatomy and Regenerative Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Akira Kaneko
- Osaka Metropolitan University Department of Parasitology and Research Center for Infectious Disease Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Norifumi Kawada
- Osaka Metropolitan University Department of Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, , Osaka, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
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15
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Pouremamali A, Babaei A, Malekshahi SS, Abbasi A, Rafiee N. Understanding the pivotal roles of ACE2 in SARS-CoV-2 infection: from structure/function to therapeutic implication. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL HUMAN GENETICS 2022; 23:103. [PMID: 37521846 PMCID: PMC9206724 DOI: 10.1186/s43042-022-00314-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In December 2019, a novel respiratory tract infection, from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was detected in China that rapidly spread around the world. This virus possesses spike (S) glycoproteins on the surface of mature virions, like other members of coronaviridae. The S glycoprotein is a crucial viral protein for binding, fusion, and entry into the target cells. Binding the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of S protein to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE 2), a cell-surface receptor, mediates virus entry into cells; thus, understanding the basics of ACE2 and S protein, their interactions, and ACE2 targeting could be a potent priority for inhibition of virus infection. This review presents current knowledge of the SARS-CoV-2 basics and entry mechanism, structure and organ distribution of ACE2, and also its function in SARS-CoV-2 entry and pathogenesis. Furthermore, it highlights ACE2 targeting by recombinant ACE2 (rACE2), ACE2 activators, ACE inhibitor, and angiotensin II (Ang II) receptor blocker to control the SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Pouremamali
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abouzar Babaei
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ardeshir Abbasi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nastaran Rafiee
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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16
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Pednekar DD, Liguori MA, Marques CNH, Zhang T, Zhang N, Zhou Z, Amoako K, Gu H. From Static to Dynamic: A Review on the Role of Mucus Heterogeneity in Particle and Microbial Transport. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2022; 8:2825-2848. [PMID: 35696291 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c00182] [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: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Mucus layers (McLs) are on the front line of the human defense system that protect us from foreign abiotic/biotic particles (e.g., airborne virus SARS-CoV-2) and lubricates our organs. Recently, the impact of McLs on human health (e.g., nutrient absorption and drug delivery) and diseases (e.g., infections and cancers) has been studied extensively, yet their mechanisms are still not fully understood due to their high variety among organs and individuals. We characterize these variances as the heterogeneity of McLs, which lies in the thickness, composition, and physiology, making the systematic research on the roles of McLs in human health and diseases very challenging. To advance mucosal organoids and develop effective drug delivery systems, a comprehensive understanding of McLs' heterogeneity and how it impacts mucus physiology is urgently needed. When the role of airway mucus in the penetration and transmission of coronavirus (CoV) is considered, this understanding may also enable a better explanation and prediction of the CoV's behavior. Hence, in this Review, we summarize the variances of McLs among organs, health conditions, and experimental settings as well as recent advances in experimental measurements, data analysis, and model development for simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipesh Dinanath Pednekar
- Department of Chemistry, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of New Haven, West Haven, Connecticut 06516, United States
| | - Madison A Liguori
- Department of Chemistry, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of New Haven, West Haven, Connecticut 06516, United States
| | | | - Teng Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13244, United States.,BioInspired Syracuse, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13244, United States
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, PR China
| | - Zejian Zhou
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Computer Science, University of New Haven, West Haven, Connecticut 06516, United States
| | - Kagya Amoako
- Department of Chemistry, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of New Haven, West Haven, Connecticut 06516, United States
| | - Huan Gu
- Department of Chemistry, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of New Haven, West Haven, Connecticut 06516, United States
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17
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Yu M, Zhang X, Zhang X, Zahra QUA, Huang Z, Chen Y, Song C, Song M, Jiang H, Luo Z, Lu Y. An electrochemical aptasensor with N protein binding aptamer-complementary oligonucleotide as probe for ultra-sensitive detection of COVID-19. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 213:114436. [PMID: 35716641 PMCID: PMC9176179 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of the COVID-19 epidemic has affected the lives of hundreds of millions of people globally. There is no doubt that the development of fast and sensitive detection methods is crucial while the worldwide effective vaccination programs are miles away from actualization. In this study, we have reported an electrochemical N protein aptamer sensor with complementary oligonucleotide as probe for the specific detection of COVID-19. The electrochemical aptasensor was prepared by fixing the double-stranded DNA hybrid obtained by the hybridization of N protein aptamer and its Fc-labeled complementary strand on the surface of a gold electrode. After incubation with the target, the aptamer dissociated from the labeled complementary DNA oligonucleotide hybrid to preferentially bind with N protein in the solution. The concentration of N protein was measured by detecting the changes in electrochemical current signals induced by the conformational transformation of the complementary DNA oligonucleotide left on the electrode surface. The sensor had a linear relationship between the logarithm of the N protein concentration from 10 fM to 100 nM (ΔIp = 0.098 log CN protein/fM - 0.08433, R2 = 0.99), and the detection limitation was 1 fM (S/N = 3). The electrochemical aptamer sensor was applied to test the spiked concentrations of throat swabs and blood samples from three volunteers, and the obtained results proved that the sensor has great potentials for the early detection of COVID-19 in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengdi Yu
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Sensors, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, PR China
| | - Xiaohui Zhang
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Sensors, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, PR China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Sensors, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, PR China
| | - Qurat Ul Ain Zahra
- Hefei National Lab for Physical Sciences at the Microscale and the Centers for Biomedical Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, PR China; Core Facility Center for Life Sciences, Department of Molecular Biology and Cell Biology, University of Sciences and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, PR China
| | - Zenghui Huang
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Sensors, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, PR China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Sensors, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, PR China
| | - Chunxia Song
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Sensors, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, PR China
| | - Min Song
- Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, PR China
| | - Hongjuan Jiang
- Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, PR China
| | - Zhaofeng Luo
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, PR China; The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Aptamer Selection Center, Institute of Basic Medicine and Cancer (IBMC), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, PR China
| | - Ying Lu
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Sensors, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, PR China.
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18
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Insertion-and-Deletion Mutations between the Genomes of SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2, and Bat Coronavirus RaTG13. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0071622. [PMID: 35658573 PMCID: PMC9241832 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00716-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolutional process of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) development remains inconclusive. This study compared the genome sequences of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), bat coronavirus RaTG13, and SARS-CoV-2. In total, the genomes of SARS-CoV-2 and RaTG13 were 77.9% and 77.7% identical to the genome of SARS-CoV, respectively. A total of 3.6% (1,068 bases) of the SARS-CoV-2 genome was derived from insertion and/or deletion (indel) mutations, and 18.6% (5,548 bases) was from point mutations from the genome of SARS-CoV. At least 35 indel sites were confirmed in the genome of SARS-CoV-2, in which 17 were with ≥10 consecutive bases long. Ten of these relatively long indels were located in the spike (S) gene, five in nonstructural protein 3 (Nsp3) gene of open reading frame (ORF) 1a, and one in ORF8 and noncoding region. Seventeen (48.6%) of the 35 indels were based on insertion-and-deletion mutations with exchanged gene sequences of 7–325 consecutive bases. Almost the complete ORF8 gene was replaced by a single 325 consecutive base-long indel. The distribution of these indels was roughly in accordance with the distribution of the rate of point mutation rate around the indels. The genome sequence of SARS-CoV-2 was 96.0% identical to that of RaTG13. There was no long insertion-and-deletion mutation between the genomes of RaTG13 and SARS-CoV-2. The findings of the uneven distribution of multiple indels and the presence of multiple long insertion-and-deletion mutations with exchanged consecutive base sequences in the viral genome may provide insights into SARS-CoV-2 development. IMPORTANCE The developmental mechanism of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) remains inconclusive. This study compared the base sequence one-by-one between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) or bat coronavirus RaTG13 and SARS-CoV-2. The genomes of SARS-CoV-2 and RaTG13 were 77.9% and 77.7% identical to the genome of SARS-CoV, respectively. Seventeen of the 35 sites with insertion and/or deletion mutations between SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV were based on insertion-and-deletion mutations with the replacement of 7–325 consecutive bases. Most of these long insertion-and-deletion sites were concentrated in the nonstructural protein 3 (Nsp3) gene of open reading frame (ORF) 1a, S1 domain of the spike protein, and ORF8 genes. Such long insertion-and-deletion mutations were not observed between the genomes of RaTG13 and SARS-CoV-2. The presence of multiple long insertion-and-deletion mutations in the genome of SARS-CoV-2 and their uneven distributions may provide further insights into the development of the virus.
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19
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Baazaoui N, Iqbal K. COVID-19 and Neurodegenerative Diseases: Prion-Like Spread and Long-Term Consequences. J Alzheimers Dis 2022; 88:399-416. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-220105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 emerged as a global pandemic starting from Wuhan in China and spread at a lightning speed to the rest of the world. One of the potential long-term outcomes that we speculate is the development of neurodegenerative diseases as a long-term consequence of SARS-CoV-2 especially in people that have developed severe neurological symptoms. Severe inflammatory reactions and aging are two very strong common links between neurodegenerative diseases and COVID-19. Thus, patients that have very high viral load may be at high risk of developing long-term adverse neurological consequences such as dementia. We hypothesize that people with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and aged people are at higher risk of getting the COVID-19 than normal adults. The basis of this hypothesis is the fact that SARS-CoV-2 uses as a receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 to enter the host cell and that this interaction is calcium-dependent. This could then suggest a direct relationship between neurodegenerative diseases, ACE-2 expression, and the susceptibility to COVID-19. The analysis of the available literature showed that COVID-19 virus is neurotropic and was found in the brains of patients infected with this virus. Furthermore, that the risk of having the infection increases with dementia and that infected people with severe symptoms could develop dementia as a long-term consequence. Dementia could be developed following the acceleration of the spread of prion-like proteins. In the present review we discuss current reports concerning the prevalence of COVID-19 in dementia patients, the individuals that are at high risk of suffering from dementia and the potential acceleration of prion-like proteins spread following SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Khalid Iqbal
- Department of Neurochemistry, Inge Grundke-Iqbal Research Floor, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, NY, USA
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20
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Wei Q, Fu G, Wang K, Yang Q, Zhao J, Wang Y, Ji K, Song S. Advances in Research on Antiviral Activities of Sulfated Polysaccharides from Seaweeds. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15050581. [PMID: 35631407 PMCID: PMC9147703 DOI: 10.3390/ph15050581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, various viral diseases have suddenly erupted, resulting in widespread infection and death. A variety of biological activities from marine natural products have gradually attracted the attention of people. Seaweeds have a wide range of sources, huge output, and high economic benefits. This is very promising in the pharmaceutical industry. In particular, sulfated polysaccharides derived from seaweeds, considered a potential source of bioactive compounds for drug development, have shown antiviral activity against a broad spectrum of viruses, mainly including common DNA viruses and RNA viruses. In addition, sulfated polysaccharides can also improve the body’s immunity. This review focuses on recent advances in antiviral research on the sulfated polysaccharides from seaweeds, including carrageenan, galactan, fucoidan, alginate, ulvan, p-KG03, naviculan, and calcium spirulan. We hope that this review will provide new ideas for the development of COVID-19 therapeutics and vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Wei
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai 264209, China; (Q.W.); (K.W.); (Q.Y.); (J.Z.); (Y.W.)
| | - Guoqiang Fu
- Weihaiwei People’s Hospital, Weihai 264200, China;
| | - Ke Wang
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai 264209, China; (Q.W.); (K.W.); (Q.Y.); (J.Z.); (Y.W.)
| | - Qiong Yang
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai 264209, China; (Q.W.); (K.W.); (Q.Y.); (J.Z.); (Y.W.)
| | - Jiarui Zhao
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai 264209, China; (Q.W.); (K.W.); (Q.Y.); (J.Z.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yuan Wang
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai 264209, China; (Q.W.); (K.W.); (Q.Y.); (J.Z.); (Y.W.)
| | - Kai Ji
- Department of Plastic Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, China
- Correspondence: (K.J.); (S.S.)
| | - Shuliang Song
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai 264209, China; (Q.W.); (K.W.); (Q.Y.); (J.Z.); (Y.W.)
- Correspondence: (K.J.); (S.S.)
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21
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Aydogdu MO, Rohn JL, Jafari NV, Brako F, Homer‐Vanniasinkam S, Edirisinghe M. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Type 2-Causing Coronavirus: Variants and Preventive Strategies. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2104495. [PMID: 35037418 PMCID: PMC9008798 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202104495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccines have constituted a substantial scientific leap in countering severe acute respiratory syndrome type 2-causing coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), and worldwide implementation of vaccination programs has significantly contributed to the global pandemic effort by saving many lives. However, the continuous evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 viral genome has resulted in different variants with a diverse range of mutations, some with enhanced virulence compared with previous lineages. Such variants are still a great concern as they have the potential to reduce vaccine efficacy and increase the viral transmission rate. This review summarizes the significant variants of SARS-CoV-2 encountered to date (December 2021) and discusses a spectrum of possible preventive strategies, with an emphasis on physical and materials science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Onur Aydogdu
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College London (UCL)Torrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
| | - Jennifer L. Rohn
- Department of Renal MedicineDivision of MedicineUniversity College LondonRowland Hill StreetLondonNW3 2PFUK
| | - Nazila V. Jafari
- Department of Renal MedicineDivision of MedicineUniversity College LondonRowland Hill StreetLondonNW3 2PFUK
| | - Francis Brako
- Medway School of PharmacyUniversities at MedwayChathamME4 4TBUK
| | | | - Mohan Edirisinghe
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College London (UCL)Torrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
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22
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Ebubeogu AF, Ozigbu CE, Maswadi K, Seixas A, Ofem P, Conserve DF. Predicting the number of COVID-19 infections and deaths in USA. Global Health 2022; 18:37. [PMID: 35346262 PMCID: PMC8959784 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-022-00827-3] [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: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Uncertainties surrounding the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) remain a major global health challenge and requires attention. Researchers and medical experts have made remarkable efforts to reduce the number of cases and prevent future outbreaks through vaccines and other measures. However, there is little evidence on how severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection entropy can be applied in predicting the possible number of infections and deaths. In addition, more studies on how the COVID-19 infection density contributes to the rise in infections are needed. This study demonstrates how the SARS-COV-2 daily infection entropy can be applied in predicting the number of infections within a given period. In addition, the infection density within a given population attributes to an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases and, consequently, the new variants. Results Using the COVID-19 initial data reported by Johns Hopkins University, World Health Organization (WHO) and Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID), the result shows that the original SAR-COV-2 strain has R0<1 with an initial infection growth rate entropy of 9.11 bits for the United States (U.S.). At close proximity, the average infection time for an infected individual to infect others within a susceptible population is approximately 7 minutes. Assuming no vaccines were available, in the U.S., the number of infections could range between 41,220,199 and 82,440,398 in late March 2022 with approximately, 1,211,036 deaths. However, with the available vaccines, nearly 48 Million COVID-19 cases and 706, 437 deaths have been prevented. Conclusion The proposed technique will contribute to the ongoing investigation of the COVID-19 pandemic and a blueprint to address the uncertainties surrounding the pandemic.
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23
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Sixto-López Y, Correa-Basurto J. HDAC inhibition as neuroprotection in COVID-19 infection. Curr Top Med Chem 2022; 22:1369-1378. [PMID: 35240959 DOI: 10.2174/1568026622666220303113445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 virus is responsible of COVID-19 affecting millions of humans around the world. COVID-19 shows diverse clinical symptoms (fever, cough, fatigue, diarrhea, body aches, headaches, anosmia and hyposmia). Approximately 30% of the patients with COVID-19 showed neurological symptoms, these going from mild to severe manifestations including headache, dizziness, impaired consciousness, encephalopathy, anosmia, hypogeusia, hyposmia, psychology and psychiatry among others. The neurotropism of SARS-CoV-2 virus explains its neuroinvasion provoking neurological damage as acute demyelination, neuroinflammation etc. At molecular level, the COVID-19 patients had higher levels of cytokines and chemokines known as cytokines storms which disrupt the blood brain barrier allowing the entrance of monocytes and lymphocytes causing neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration and demyelination. In addition, ischemic, hemorrhagic strokes, seizures and encephalopathy have been observed due to the proinflammatory cytokines. In this sense, to avoid or decrease neurological damage due to SARS-CoV-2 infection, an early neuroprotective management should be adopted. Several approaches can be used; one of them includes the use of HDAC inhibitors (HDACi) due to their neuroprotective effects. Also, the HDACi down regulates the pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF- decreasing the neurotoxicity. HDACi can also avoid and prevent the entrance of the virus into the Central nervous System (CNS) as well as decrease the virus replication by downregulating the virus receptors. Here we review the mechanisms that could explain how the SARS-CoV-2 virus could reach the CNS, induce the neurological damage and symptoms, as well as the possibility to use HDACi as neuroprotective therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudibeth Sixto-López
- Laboratorio de Diseño y Desarrollo de Nuevos Fármacos e Innovación Biotecnológica (Laboratory for the Design and Development of New Drugs and Biotechnological Innovation), Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México. Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón S/N, Casco de Santo Tomas, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - José Correa-Basurto
- Laboratorio de Diseño y Desarrollo de Nuevos Fármacos e Innovación Biotecnológica (Laboratory for the Design and Development of New Drugs and Biotechnological Innovation), Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México. Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón S/N, Casco de Santo Tomas, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City, Mexico
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24
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Bernard K, Davis A, Simpson IM, Hale VL, Lee J, Winston RJ. Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in urban stormwater: An environmental reservoir and potential interface between human and animal sources. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 807:151046. [PMID: 34673059 PMCID: PMC8522674 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
While wastewater has been found to harbor SARS-CoV-2, the persistence of SARSCoV-2 in stormwater and potential transmission is poorly understood. It is plausible that the virus is detectable in stormwater samples where human-originated fecal contamination may have occurred from sources like sanitary sewer overflows, leaky wastewater pipes, and non-human animal waste. Because of these potential contamination pathways, it is possible that stormwater could serve as an environmental reservoir and transmission pathway for SARS-CoV-2. The objectives of this study are: 1) determine whether the presence of SARS-CoV-2 could be detected in stormwater via RT-ddPCR (reverse transcription-digital droplet PCR); 2) quantify human-specific fecal contamination using microbial source tracking; and 3) examine whether rainfall characteristics influence virus concentrations. To accomplish these objectives, we investigated whether SARS-CoV-2 could be detected from 10 storm sewer outfalls each draining a single, dominant land use in Columbus, Xenia, and Springboro, Ohio. Of the 25 samples collected in 2020, at minimum one SARS-CoV-2 target gene (N2 [US-CDC and CN-CDC], and E) was detected in 22 samples (88%). A single significant correlation (p = 0.001), between antecedent dry period and the USCDC N2 gene, was found between target gene concentrations and rainfall characteristics. Grouped by city, two significant relationships emerged showing cities had different levels of the SARS-CoV-2 E gene. Given the differences in scale, the county-level COVID-19 confirmed cases COVID-19 rates were not significantly correlated with stormwater outfall-scale SARS-CoV-2 gene concentrations. Countywide COVID-19 data did not accurately portray neighborhood-scale confirmed COVID-19 case rates. Potential hazards may arise when human fecal contamination is present in stormwater and facilitates future investigation on the threat of viral outbreaks via surfaces waters where fecal contamination may have occurred. Future studies should investigate whether humans are able to contract SARS-CoV-2 from surface waters and the factors that may affect viral longevity and transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay Bernard
- Department of Food, Agricultural, and Biological Engineering, The Ohio State University, 590 Woody Hayes Dr., Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Angela Davis
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, 1841 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ian M Simpson
- Department of Food, Agricultural, and Biological Engineering, The Ohio State University, 590 Woody Hayes Dr., Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Vanessa L Hale
- Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, The Ohio State University, 1920 Coffey Rd, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jiyoung Lee
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, 1841 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Food Science and Technology, The Ohio State University, 2021 Fyffe Rd, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ryan J Winston
- Department of Food, Agricultural, and Biological Engineering, The Ohio State University, 590 Woody Hayes Dr., Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geodetic Engineering, The Ohio State University, 2070 Neil Ave., Columbus, OH, USA
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25
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Ahmad MA, Olule LJA, Meetani M, Sheikh FA, Blooshi RA, Panicker NG, Mustafa F, Rizvi TA. Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in COVID-19 Patient Nasal Swab Samples Using Signal Processing. IEEE JOURNAL OF SELECTED TOPICS IN SIGNAL PROCESSING 2022; 16:164-174. [PMID: 35582704 PMCID: PMC9088791 DOI: 10.1109/jstsp.2021.3134073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
This work presents an opto-electrical method that measures the viral nucleocapsid protein and anti-N antibody interactions to differentiate between SARS-CoV-2 negative and positive nasal swab samples. Upon light exposure of the patient nasal swab sample mixed with the anti-N antibody, charge transfer (CT) transitions within the altered protein folds are initiated between the charged amino acids side chain moieties and the peptide backbone that play the role of donor and acceptor groups. A Figure of Merit (FOM) was introduced to correlate the relative variations of the samples with and without antibody at two different voltages. Empirically, SARS-CoV-2 in patient nasal swab samples was detected within two minutes, if an extracted FOM threshold of >1 was achieved; otherwise, the sample wasconsidered negative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Al Ahmad
- Department of Electrical EngineeringUAE UniversityAl Ain15551UAE
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences (ZCHS)UAE UniversityAl Ain15551UAE
| | | | | | | | | | - Neena G. Panicker
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular BiologyCMHS UAE UniversityAl Ain17666UAE
| | - Farah Mustafa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyCMHS UAE UniversityAl Ain17666UAE
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences (ZCHS)UAE UniversityAl Ain15551UAE
| | - Tahir A. Rizvi
- Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyCMHS UAE UniversityAl Ain17666UAE
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences (ZCHS)UAE UniversityAl Ain15551UAE
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26
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Theoharides TC. Could SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Be Responsible for Long-COVID Syndrome? Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:1850-1861. [PMID: 35028901 PMCID: PMC8757925 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02696-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infects cells via its spike protein binding to its surface receptor on target cells and results in acute symptoms involving especially the lungs known as COVID-19. However, increasing evidence indicates that many patients develop a chronic condition characterized by fatigue and neuropsychiatric symptoms, termed long-COVID. Most of the vaccines produced so far for COVID-19 direct mammalian cells via either mRNA or an adenovirus vector to express the spike protein, or administer recombinant spike protein, which is recognized by the immune system leading to the production of neutralizing antibodies. Recent publications provide new findings that may help decipher the pathogenesis of long-COVID. One paper reported perivascular inflammation in brains of deceased patients with COVID-19, while others showed that the spike protein could damage the endothelium in an animal model, that it could disrupt an in vitro model of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and that it can cross the BBB resulting in perivascular inflammation. Moreover, the spike protein appears to share antigenic epitopes with human molecular chaperons resulting in autoimmunity and can activate toll-like receptors (TLRs), leading to release of inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, some antibodies produced against the spike protein may not be neutralizing, but may change its conformation rendering it more likely to bind to its receptor. As a result, one wonders whether the spike protein entering the brain or being expressed by brain cells could activate microglia, alone or together with inflammatory cytokines, since protective antibodies could not cross the BBB, leading to neuro-inflammation and contributing to long-COVID. Hence, there is urgent need to better understand the neurotoxic effects of the spike protein and to consider possible interventions to mitigate spike protein-related detrimental effects to the brain, possibly via use of small natural molecules, especially the flavonoids luteolin and quercetin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C Theoharides
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Suite 304, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
- School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
- Institute of Neuro-Immune Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Clearwater, FL, 33759, USA.
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27
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Gunathilake TMSU, Ching YC, Uyama H, Hai ND, Chuah CH. Enhanced curcumin loaded nanocellulose: a possible inhalable nanotherapeutic to treat COVID-19. CELLULOSE (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 29:1821-1840. [PMID: 35002106 PMCID: PMC8725427 DOI: 10.1007/s10570-021-04391-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Nanocellulose/polyvinyl alcohol/curcumin (CNC/PVA/curcumin) nanoparticles with enhanced drug loading properties were developed by the dispersion of nanocellulose in curcumin/polyvinyl alcohol aqueous medium. Due to the physical and chemical nature of sulphuric acid hydrolyzed nanocellulose and the antiviral properties of curcumin, the possibility of using these nanoparticles as an inhalable nanotherapeutic for the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is discussed. The adsorption of curcumin and PVA into nanocellulose, and the presence of anionic sulphate groups, which is important for the interaction with viral glycoproteins were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. FESEM images showed that the diameter of nanocellulose ranged from 50 to 100 nm, which is closer to the diameter (60-140 nm) of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The solubility of poorly water-soluble curcumin was increased from 40.58 ± 1.42 to 313.61 ± 1.05 mg/L with increasing the PVA concentration from 0.05 to 0.8% (w/v) in aqueous medium. This is a significant increase in the solubility compared to curcumin's solubility in carboxymethyl cellulose medium in our previous study. The drug loading capacity increased by 22-fold with the addition of 0.8% PVA to the nanocellulose dispersed curcumin solution. The highest drug release increased from 1.25 ± 0.15 mg/L to 17.11 ± 0.22 mg/L with increasing the PVA concentration from 0 to 0.8% in the drug-loaded medium. Future studies of this material will be based on the antiviral efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 and cell cytotoxicity studies. Due to the particulate nature, morphology and size of SARS-CoV-2, nanoparticle-based strategies offer a strong approach to tackling this virus. Hence, we believe that the enhanced loading of curcumin in nanocellulose will provide a promising nano-based solution for the treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thennakoon M. Sampath U. Gunathilake
- Centre of Advanced Materials (CAM), Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala, Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala, Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yern Chee Ching
- Centre of Advanced Materials (CAM), Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala, Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala, Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hiroshi Uyama
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Nguyen Dai Hai
- Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy Science and Technology, 01 TL29, District 12, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000 Vietnam
| | - Cheng Hock Chuah
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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28
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Aithal S, Mishriki S, Gupta R, Sahu RP, Botos G, Tanvir S, Hanson RW, Puri IK. SARS-CoV-2 detection with aptamer-functionalized gold nanoparticles. Talanta 2022; 236:122841. [PMID: 34635231 PMCID: PMC8409056 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2021.122841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
A rapid detection test for SARS-CoV-2 is urgently required to monitor virus spread and containment. Here, we describe a test that uses nanoprobes, which are gold nanoparticles functionalized with an aptamer specific to the spike membrane protein of SARS-CoV-2. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay confirms aptamer binding with the spike protein on gold surfaces. Protein recognition occurs by adding a coagulant, where nanoprobes with no bound protein agglomerate while those with sufficient bound protein do not. Using plasmon absorbance spectra, the nanoprobes detect 16 nM and higher concentrations of spike protein in phosphate-buffered saline. The time-varying light absorbance is examined at 540 nm to determine the critical coagulant concentration required to agglomerates the nanoprobes, which depends on the protein concentration. This approach detects 3540 genome copies/μl of inactivated SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srivatsa Aithal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarah Mishriki
- School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rohit Gupta
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rakesh P Sahu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - George Botos
- Genemis Laboratories, Cambridge, Ontario, Canada; Aptavid, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Ishwar K Puri
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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29
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Zoran MA, Savastru RS, Savastru DM, Tautan MN, Baschir LA, Tenciu DV. Assessing the impact of air pollution and climate seasonality on COVID-19 multiwaves in Madrid, Spain. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 203:111849. [PMID: 34370990 PMCID: PMC8343379 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
While the COVID-19 pandemic is still in progress, being under the fifth COVID-19 wave in Madrid, over more than one year, Spain experienced a four wave pattern. The transmission of SARS-CoV-2 pathogens in Madrid metropolitan region was investigated from an urban context associated with seasonal variability of climate and air pollution drivers. Based on descriptive statistics and regression methods of in-situ and geospatial daily time series data, this study provides a comparative analysis between COVID-19 waves incidence and mortality cases in Madrid under different air quality and climate conditions. During analyzed period 1 January 2020-1 July 2021, for each of the four COVID-19 waves in Madrid were recorded anomalous anticyclonic synoptic meteorological patterns in the mid-troposphere and favorable stability conditions for COVID-19 disease fast spreading. As airborne microbial temporal pattern is most affected by seasonal changes, this paper found: 1) a significant negative correlation of air temperature, Planetary Boundary Layer height, and surface solar irradiance with daily new COVID-19 incidence and deaths; 2) a similar mutual seasonality with climate variables of the first and the fourth COVID-waves from spring seasons of 2020 and 2021 years. Such information may help the health decision makers and public plan for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Zoran
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele-Bucharest, 077125, Romania.
| | - Roxana S Savastru
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele-Bucharest, 077125, Romania
| | - Dan M Savastru
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele-Bucharest, 077125, Romania
| | - Marina N Tautan
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele-Bucharest, 077125, Romania
| | - Laurentiu A Baschir
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele-Bucharest, 077125, Romania
| | - Daniel V Tenciu
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele-Bucharest, 077125, Romania
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30
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Abrego-Martinez JC, Jafari M, Chergui S, Pavel C, Che D, Siaj M. Aptamer-based electrochemical biosensor for rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2: Nanoscale electrode-aptamer-SARS-CoV-2 imaging by photo-induced force microscopy. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 195:113595. [PMID: 34571481 PMCID: PMC8405239 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.113595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Rapid, mass diagnosis of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is critical to stop the ongoing infection spread. The two standard screening methods to confirm the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are polymerase chain reaction (PCR), through the RNA of the virus, and serology by detecting antibodies produced as a response to the viral infection. However, given the detection complexity, cost and relatively long analysis times of these techniques, novel technologies are urgently needed. Here, we report an aptamer-based biosensor developed on a screen-printed carbon electrode platform for rapid, sensitive, and user-friendly detection of SARS-CoV-2. The aptasensor relies on an aptamer targeting the receptor-binding domain (RBD) in the spike protein (S-protein) of the SARS-CoV-2. The aptamer immobilization on gold nanoparticles, and the presence of S-protein in the aptamer-target complex, investigated for the first time by photo-induced force microscopy mapping between 770 and 1910 cm−1 of the electromagnetic spectrum, revealed abundant S-protein homogeneously distributed on the sensing probe. The detection of SARS-CoV-2 S-protein was achieved by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy after 40 min incubation with several analyte concentrations, yielding a limit of detection of 1.30 pM (66 pg/mL). Moreover, the aptasensor was successfully applied for the detection of a SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus, thus suggesting it is a promising tool for the diagnosis of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maziar Jafari
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Université Du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3C 3P8, Canada
| | - Siham Chergui
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Université Du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3C 3P8, Canada
| | - Catalin Pavel
- Azure Biosystems Canada, Montréal, QC, H4P 2N5, Canada
| | - Diping Che
- Azure Biosystems Canada, Montréal, QC, H4P 2N5, Canada
| | - Mohamed Siaj
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Université Du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3C 3P8, Canada.
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Beretta E, Romanò F, Sancini G, Grotberg JB, Nieman GF, Miserocchi G. Pulmonary Interstitial Matrix and Lung Fluid Balance From Normal to the Acutely Injured Lung. Front Physiol 2021; 12:781874. [PMID: 34987415 PMCID: PMC8720972 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.781874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
This review analyses the mechanisms by which lung fluid balance is strictly controlled in the air-blood barrier (ABB). Relatively large trans-endothelial and trans-epithelial Starling pressure gradients result in a minimal flow across the ABB thanks to low microvascular permeability aided by the macromolecular structure of the interstitial matrix. These edema safety factors are lost when the integrity of the interstitial matrix is damaged. The result is that small Starling pressure gradients, acting on a progressively expanding alveolar barrier with high permeability, generate a high transvascular flow that causes alveolar flooding in minutes. We modeled the trans-endothelial and trans-epithelial Starling pressure gradients under control conditions, as well as under increasing alveolar pressure (Palv) conditions of up to 25 cmH2O. We referred to the wet-to-dry weight (W/D) ratio, a specific index of lung water balance, to be correlated with the functional state of the interstitial structure. W/D averages ∼5 in control and might increase by up to ∼9 in severe edema, corresponding to ∼70% loss in the integrity of the native matrix. Factors buffering edemagenic conditions include: (i) an interstitial capacity for fluid accumulation located in the thick portion of ABB, (ii) the increase in interstitial pressure due to water binding by hyaluronan (the "safety factor" opposing the filtration gradient), and (iii) increased lymphatic flow. Inflammatory factors causing lung tissue damage include those of bacterial/viral and those of sterile nature. Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during hypoxia or hyperoxia, or excessive parenchymal stress/strain [lung overdistension caused by patient self-induced lung injury (P-SILI)] can all cause excessive inflammation. We discuss the heterogeneity of intrapulmonary distribution of W/D ratios. A W/D ∼6.5 has been identified as being critical for the transition to severe edema formation. Increasing Palv for W/D > 6.5, both trans-endothelial and trans-epithelial gradients favor filtration leading to alveolar flooding. Neither CT scan nor ultrasound can identify this initial level of lung fluid balance perturbation. A suggestion is put forward to identify a non-invasive tool to detect the earliest stages of perturbation of lung fluid balance before the condition becomes life-threatening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Egidio Beretta
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, School of Medicine and Surgery, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Francesco Romanò
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, ONERA, Arts et Métiers, Centrale Lille, FRE 2017-LMFL-Laboratoire de Mécanique des Fluides de Lille – Kampé de Fériet, Lille, France
| | - Giulio Sancini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, School of Medicine and Surgery, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - James B. Grotberg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Gary F. Nieman
- Department of Surgery, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Giuseppe Miserocchi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, School of Medicine and Surgery, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
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32
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Blaylock RL. Covid-19 pandemic: What is the truth? Surg Neurol Int 2021; 12:591. [PMID: 34992908 PMCID: PMC8720447 DOI: 10.25259/sni_1008_2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The ongoing “pandemic” involving the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus (SARS-CoV-2) has several characteristics that make it unique in the history of pandemics. This entails not only the draconian measures that some countries and individual states within the United States and initiated and made policy, most of which are without precedent or scientific support, but also the completely unscientific way the infection has been handled. For the 1st time in medical history, major experts in virology, epidemiology, infectious diseases, and vaccinology have not only been ignored, but are also demonized, marginalized and in some instances, become the victim of legal measures that can only be characterized as totalitarian. Discussions involving various scientific opinions have been eliminated, top scientists have been frightened into silence by threats to their careers, physicians have lost their licenses, and the concept of early treatment has been virtually eliminated. Hundreds of thousands of people have died needlessly as a result of, in my opinion and the opinion of others, poorly designed treatment protocols, mostly stemming from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, which have been rigidly enforced among all hospitals. The economic, psychological, and institutional damage caused by these unscientific policies is virtually unmeasurable. Whole generations of young people will suffer irreparable damage, both physical and psychological, possibly forever. The truth must be told.
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Gunathilake TMSU, Ching YC, Uyama H, Nguyen DH, Chuah CH. Investigations on the interactions of proteins with nanocellulose produced via sulphuric acid hydrolysis. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 193:1522-1531. [PMID: 34740692 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.10.215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The investigation of protein-nanoparticle interactions contributes to the understanding of nanoparticle bio-reactivity and creates a database of nanoparticles for use in nanomedicine, nanodiagnosis, and nanotherapy. In this study, hen's egg white was used as the protein source to study the interaction of proteins with sulphuric acid hydrolysed nanocellulose (CNC). Several techniques such as FTIR, zeta potential measurement, UV-vis spectroscopy, compressive strength, TGA, contact angle and FESEM provide valuable information in the protein-CNC interaction study. The presence of a broader peak in the 1600-1050 cm-1 range of CNC/egg white protein FTIR spectrum compared to the 1600-1050 cm-1 range of CNC sample indicated the binding of egg white protein to CNC surface. The contact angle with the glass surface decreased with the addition of CNC to egg white protein. The FESEM EDX spectra showed a higher amount of N and Na on the surface of CNC. It indicates the density of protein molecules higher around CNC. The zeta potential of CNC changed from -26.7 ± 0.46 to -21.7 ± 0.2 with the introduction of egg white protein due to the hydrogen bonding, polar bonds and electrostatic interaction between surface CNC and protein. The compressive strength of the egg white protein films increased from 0.064 ± 0.01 to 0.36 ± 0.02 MPa with increasing the CNC concentration from 0 to 4.73% (w/v). The thermal decomposition temperature of CNC/egg white protein decreased compared to egg white protein thermal decomposition temperature. According to UV-Vis spectroscopy, the far-UV light (207-222nm) absorption peak slightly changed in the CNC/egg white protein spectrum compared to the egg white protein spectrum. Based on the results, the observations of protein nanoparticle interactions provide an additional understanding, besides the theoretical simulations from previous studies. Also, the results indicate to aim CNC for the application of nanomedicine and nanotherapy. A new insight given by us in this research assumes a reasonable solution to these crucial applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thennakoon M Sampath U Gunathilake
- Centre of Advanced Materials (CAM), Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yern Chee Ching
- Centre of Advanced Materials (CAM), Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Hiroshi Uyama
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Dai Hai Nguyen
- Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy Science and Technology, 01 TL29 District 12, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Cheng Hock Chuah
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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34
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Kucherova A, Strango S, Sukenik S, Theillard M. Computational modeling of protein conformational changes - Application to the opening SARS-CoV-2 spike. JOURNAL OF COMPUTATIONAL PHYSICS 2021; 444:110591. [PMID: 36532662 PMCID: PMC9749448 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcp.2021.110591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
We present a new approach to compute and analyze the dynamical electro-geometric properties of proteins undergoing conformational changes. The molecular trajectory is obtained from Markov state models, and the electrostatic potential is calculated using the continuum Poisson-Boltzmann equation. The numerical electric potential is constructed using a parallel sharp numerical solver implemented on adaptive Octree grids. We introduce novel a posteriori error estimates to quantify the solution's accuracy on the molecular surface. To illustrate the approach, we consider the opening of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein using the recent molecular trajectory simulated through the Folding@home initiative. We analyze our results, focusing on the characteristics of the receptor-binding domain and its vicinity. This work lays the foundation for a new class of hybrid computational approaches, producing high-fidelity dynamical computational measurements serving as a basis for protein bio-mechanism investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kucherova
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of California, Merced, CA 95343, USA
| | - Selma Strango
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of California, Merced, CA 95343, USA
| | - Shahar Sukenik
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, University of California, Merced, CA 95343, USA
| | - Maxime Theillard
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of California, Merced, CA 95343, USA
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35
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Datta G, Miller NM, Halcrow PW, Khan N, Colwell T, Geiger JD, Chen X. SARS-CoV-2 S1 Protein Induces Endolysosome Dysfunction and Neuritic Dystrophy. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:777738. [PMID: 34776872 PMCID: PMC8579006 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.777738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is the viral cause of the COVID-19 pandemic. Increasingly, significant neurological disorders have been associated with COVID-19. However, the pathogenesis of these neurological disorders remains unclear especially because only low or undetectable levels of SARS-CoV-2 have been reported in human brain specimens. Because SARS-CoV-2 S1 protein can be released from viral membranes, can cross the blood-brain barrier, and is present in brain cells including neurons, we tested the hypothesis that SARS-CoV-2 S1 protein can directly induce neuronal injury. Incubation of primary human cortical neurons with SARS-CoV-2 S1 protein resulted in accumulation of the S1 protein in endolysosomes as well as endolysosome de-acidification. Further, SARS-CoV-2 S1 protein induced aberrant endolysosome morphology and neuritic varicosities. Our findings suggest that SARS-CoV-2 S1 protein directly induces neuritic dystrophy, which could contribute to the high incidence of neurological disorders associated with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xuesong Chen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, United States
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36
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Neurotropism of SARS-CoV-2 and neurological diseases of the central nervous system in COVID-19 patients. Exp Brain Res 2021; 240:9-25. [PMID: 34694467 PMCID: PMC8543422 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-021-06244-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The devastating COVID-19 pandemic is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It primarily affects the lung and induces acute respiratory distress leading to a decrease in oxygen supply to the cells. This lung insufficiency caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus contributes to hypoxia which can affect the brain and other organ systems. The heightened cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients leads to an immune reaction in the vascular endothelial cells that compromise the host defenses against the SARS-CoV-2 virus in various organs. The vascular endothelial cell membrane breach allows access for SARS-CoV-2 to infect multiple tissues and organs. The neurotropism of spike protein in SARS-CoV-2 rendered by furin site insertion may increase neuronal infections. These could result in encephalitis and encephalopathy. The COVID-19 patients suffered severe lung deficiency often showed effects in the brain and neural system. The early symptoms include headache, loss of smell, mental confusion, psychiatric disorders and strokes, and rarely encephalitis, which indicated the vulnerability of the nervous system to SARS-CoV-2. Infection of the brain and peripheral nervous system can lead to the dysfunction of other organs and result in multi-organ failure. This review focuses on discussing the vulnerability of the nervous system based on the pattern of expression of the receptors for the SARS-CoV-2 and the mechanisms of its cell invasion. The SARS-CoV-2 elicited immune response and host immune response evasion are further discussed. Then the effects on the nervous system and its consequences on neuro-sensory functions are discussed. Finally, the emerging information on the overall genetic susceptibility seen in COVID-19 patients and its implications for therapy outlook is discussed.
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37
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Zarei M, Rahimi K, Hassanzadeh K, Abdi M, Hosseini V, Fathi A, Kakaei K. From the environment to the cells: An overview on pivotal factors which affect spreading and infection in COVID-19 pandemic. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 201:111555. [PMID: 34197816 PMCID: PMC8236413 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Several factors ranging from environmental risks to the genetics of the virus and that of the hosts, affect the spread of COVID-19. The impact of physicochemical variables on virus vitality and spread should be taken into account in experimental and clinical studies. Another avenue to explore is the effect of diet and its interaction with the immune system on SARS-CoV-2 infection and mortality rate. Past year have witnessed extensive studies on virus and pathophysiology of the COVID-19 disease and the cellular mechanisms of virus spreading. However, our knowledge has not reached a level where we plan an efficient therapeutic approach to prevent the virus entry to the cells or decreasing the spreading and morbidity in severe cases of disease. The risk of infection directly correlates with the control of virus spreading via droplets and aerosol transmission, as well as patient immune system response. A key goal in virus restriction and transmission rate is to understand the physicochemical structure of aerosol and droplet formation, and the parameters that affect the droplet-borne and airborne in different environmental conditions. The lifetime of droplets on different surfaces is described based on the contact angle. Hereby, we recommend regular use of high-quality face masks in high temperature and low humidity conditions. However, in humid and cold weather conditions, wearing gloves and frequently hand washing, gain a higher priority. Additionally, social distancing rules should be respected in all aforementioned conditions. We will also discuss different routes of SARS-CoV-2 entry into the cells and how multiple genetic factors play a role in the spread of the virus. Given the role of environmental and nutritional factors, we discuss and recommend some strategies to prevent the disease and protect the population against COVID-19. Since an effective vaccine can prevent the transmission of communicable diseases and abolish pandemics, we added a brief review of candidate SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Zarei
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Industrial Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 40450, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Karim Rahimi
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Gene Expression and Gene Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kambiz Hassanzadeh
- Laboratory of Neuronal Cell Signaling, EBRI Rita Levi-Montalcini Foundation, Rome, 00161, Italy; Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Mohammad Abdi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Vahedeh Hosseini
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Ali Fathi
- FUJIFILM Cellular Dynamics, Inc., Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Karim Kakaei
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Maragheh, Maragheh, Iran.
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38
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Halaji M, Heiat M, Faraji N, Ranjbar R. Epidemiology of COVID-19: An updated review. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN MEDICAL SCIENCES : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF ISFAHAN UNIVERSITY OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2021; 26:82. [PMID: 34759999 PMCID: PMC8548902 DOI: 10.4103/jrms.jrms_506_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a zoonotic infection, is responsible for COVID-19 pandemic and also is known as a public health concern. However, so far, the origin of the causative virus and its intermediate hosts is yet to be fully determined. SARS-CoV-2 contains nearly 30,000 letters of RNA that allows the virus to infect cells and hijack them to make new viruses. On the other hand, among 14 detected mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 S protein that provide advantages to virus for transmission and evasion form treatment, the D614G mutation (substitution of aspartic acid [D] with glycine [G] in codon 614 was particular which could provide the facilitation of the transmission of the virus and virulence. To date, in contrary to the global effort to come up with various aspects of SARS-CoV-2, there are still great pitfalls in the knowledge of this disease and many angles remain unclear. That's why, the monitoring and periodical investigation of this emerging infection in an epidemiological study seems to be essential. The present study characterizes the current epidemiological status (i.e., possible transmission route, mortality and morbidity risk, emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, and clinical feature) of the SARS-CoV-2 in the world during these pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Halaji
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Mohammad Heiat
- Baqiyatallah Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Niloofar Faraji
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Reza Ranjbar
- Molecular Biology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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39
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Johnson AM, Barigye R, Saminathan H. Perspectives on the use and risk of adverse events associated with cytokine-storm targeting antibodies and challenges associated with development of novel monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of COVID-19 clinical cases. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2021; 17:2824-2840. [PMID: 33974497 PMCID: PMC8127167 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2021.1908060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic that lacks globally accessible effective antivirals or extensively available vaccines. Numerous clinical trials are exploring the applicability of repurposed monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting cytokines that cause adverse COVID-19-related pathologies, and novel mAbs directly targeting SARS-CoV-2. However, comorbidities and the incidence of cytokine storm (CS)-associated pathological complexities in some COVID-19 patients may limit the clinical use of these drugs. Additionally, CS-targeting mAbs have the potential to cause adverse events that restrict their applicability in patients with comorbidities. Novel mAbs targeting SARS-CoV-2 require pharmacological and toxicological characterization before a marketable product becomes available. The affordability of novel mAbs across the global economic spectrum may seriously limit their accessibility. This review presents a perspective on antibody-based research efforts and their limitations for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Mary Johnson
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Food and Agriculture, United Arab Emirates University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Robert Barigye
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Food and Agriculture, United Arab Emirates University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hariharan Saminathan
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Food and Agriculture, United Arab Emirates University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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40
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Idili A, Parolo C, Alvarez-Diduk R, Merkoçi A. Rapid and Efficient Detection of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Using an Electrochemical Aptamer-Based Sensor. ACS Sens 2021; 6:3093-3101. [PMID: 34375076 PMCID: PMC8370117 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.1c01222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
![]()
The
availability of sensors able to rapidly detect SARS-CoV-2 directly
in biological fluids in a single step would allow performing massive
diagnostic testing to track in real time and contain the spread of
COVID-19. Motivated by this, here, we developed an electrochemical
aptamer-based (EAB) sensor able to achieve the rapid, reagentless,
and quantitative measurement of the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein.
First, we demonstrated the ability of the selected aptamer to undergo
a binding-induced conformational change in the presence of its target
using fluorescence spectroscopy. Then, we engineered the aptamer to
work as a bioreceptor in the EAB platform and we demonstrated its
sensitivity and specificity. Finally, to demonstrate the clinical
potential of the sensor, we tested it directly in biological fluids
(serum and artificial saliva), achieving the rapid (minutes) and single-step
detection of the S protein in its clinical range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Idili
- Institut Català de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia (ICN2), Campus UAB, Bellaterra 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Claudio Parolo
- Institut Català de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia (ICN2), Campus UAB, Bellaterra 08193 Barcelona, Spain
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ruslán Alvarez-Diduk
- Institut Català de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia (ICN2), Campus UAB, Bellaterra 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Arben Merkoçi
- Institut Català de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia (ICN2), Campus UAB, Bellaterra 08193 Barcelona, Spain
- CSIC and the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Institucio′ Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain
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Kim H, Lee JH, Lee JH, Lee BY, Lee BD, Okada K, Ji S, Yoon J, Lee JH, Lee SW. M13 Virus Triboelectricity and Energy Harvesting. NANO LETTERS 2021; 21:6851-6858. [PMID: 34383494 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.1c01881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Triboelectrification is a phenomenon that generates electric potential upon contact. Here, we report a viral particle capable of generating triboelectric potential. M13 bacteriophage is exploited to fabricate precisely defined chemical and physical structures. By genetically engineering the charged structures, we observe that more negatively charged phages can generate higher triboelectric potentials and can diffuse the electric charges faster than less negatively charged phages can. The computational results show that the glutamate-engineered phages lower the LUMO energy level so that they can easily accept electrons from other materials upon contact. A phage-based triboelectric nanogenerator is fabricated and it could produce ∼76 V and ∼5.1 μA, enough to power 30 light-emitting diodes upon a mechanical force application. Our biotechnological approach will be useful to understand the electrical behavior of biomaterials, harvest mechanical energy, and provide a novel modality to detect desired viruses in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Kim
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Biological Systems and Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Ju-Hyuck Lee
- Biological Systems and Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Ju Hun Lee
- Biological Systems and Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Byung Yang Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Byoung Duk Lee
- Large Display Development Center, Samsung Display Co Ltd, Yongin-si 17113, Republic of Korea
| | - Kento Okada
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Seungwook Ji
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Biological Systems and Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Jihwan Yoon
- Large Display Development Center, Samsung Display Co Ltd, Yongin-si 17113, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Hyuk Lee
- Large Display Development Center, Samsung Display Co Ltd, Yongin-si 17113, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Wuk Lee
- Biological Systems and Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
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42
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Hernández VS, Zetter MA, Guerra EC, Hernández-Araiza I, Karuzin N, Hernández-Pérez OR, Eiden LE, Zhang L. ACE2 expression in rat brain: Implications for COVID-19 associated neurological manifestations. Exp Neurol 2021; 345:113837. [PMID: 34400158 PMCID: PMC8361001 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We examined cell type-specific expression and distribution of rat brain angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the receptor for SARS-CoV-2, in the rodent brain. ACE2 is ubiquitously present in brain vasculature, with the highest density of ACE2 expressing capillaries found in the olfactory bulb, the hypothalamic paraventricular, supraoptic, and mammillary nuclei, the midbrain substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area, and the hindbrain pontine nucleus, the pre-Bötzinger complex, and nucleus of tractus solitarius. ACE2 was expressed in astrocytes and astrocytic foot processes, pericytes and endothelial cells, key components of the blood-brain barrier. We found discrete neuronal groups immunopositive for ACE2 in brainstem respiratory rhythm generating centers, including the pontine nucleus, the parafascicular/retrotrapezoid nucleus, the parabrachial nucleus, the Bötzinger, and pre-Bötzinger complexes and the nucleus of tractus solitarius; in the arousal-related pontine reticular nucleus and gigantocellular reticular nuclei; in brainstem aminergic nuclei, including substantia nigra, ventral tegmental area, dorsal raphe, and locus coeruleus; in the epithalamic habenula, hypothalamic paraventricular and supramammillary nuclei; and in the hippocampus. Identification of ACE2-expressing neurons in rat brain within well-established functional circuits facilitates prediction of possible neurological manifestations of brain ACE2 dysregulation during and after COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vito S Hernández
- Dept. Physiology, Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico)
| | - Mario A Zetter
- Dept. Physiology, Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico)
| | - Enrique C Guerra
- Dept. Physiology, Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico)
| | - Ileana Hernández-Araiza
- Dept. Physiology, Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico); School of Medicine University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nikita Karuzin
- Dept. Physiology, Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico); School of Medicine, Pan-American University, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Oscar R Hernández-Pérez
- Dept. Physiology, Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico)
| | - Lee E Eiden
- Section on Molecular Neuroscience, NIMH-IRP, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Limei Zhang
- Dept. Physiology, Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico).
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Kumar R, Harilal S, Sabitha M, Pappachan LK, Roshni P R, Mathew B. Current perspective of COVID-19 on neurology: A mechanistic insight. Comb Chem High Throughput Screen 2021; 25:763-767. [PMID: 34353250 DOI: 10.2174/1386207324666210805121828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus and the causative organism of Covid-19 pandemic wreaked havoc worldwide producing asymptomatic to symptomatic cases leading to significant morbidity and mortality even after infection. Most of the countries reported a mortality rate of 2-3 % majorly due to cardiorespiratory failures. Recent studies highlighted the neurological involvement playing a key role in cardiorespiratory failures and other symptoms such as headache, anosmia, and ageusia observed in Covid-19 patients. Studies suggests SARS-CoV-2 entry via olfactory epithelium (OE) and the expression of type 2 transmembrane serine protease (TMPRSS2) in addition to angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) can facilitate SARS-CoV-2 neurotropism. The virus can either travel via peripheral blood vessel causing endothelial dysfunction, triggering coagulation cascade and multiple organ dysfunction or reach the systemic circulation and take a different route to the blood brain barrier (BBB), disrupting the BBB causing neuroinflammation or neuronal excitotoxicity resulting in the development of encephalitis, encephalopathy, seizures, and strokes. SARS-CoV-2 invasion on brain stem is believed to be responsible for the cardiorespiratory failures observed in Covid-19 patients. Apart from viral invasion via hematogenous route, SARS-CoV-2 neural invasion via PNS nerve terminal, resulting in viral replication and retrograde transportation to soma leading to invasion of the CNS including the brain producing neurological manifestations of the disease either in the initial stages or during the course of the disease and even in a long period post infection in many cases. The ACE2 receptors are expressed in the brain and glial cells and SARS-CoV-2 acts via neuronal as well as non-neuronal pathway. But the exact cell types involved and how they can trigger inflammatory pathways need further in-depth study for the development of targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh Kumar
- Department of Pharmacy, Kerala University of Health Sciences, Thrissur, Kerala. India
| | - Seetha Harilal
- Department of Pharmacy, Kerala University of Health Sciences, Thrissur, Kerala. India
| | - Sabitha M
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Sciences Campus, Kochi-682 041. India
| | - Leena K Pappachan
- Amrita School of Pharmacy,AIMS Health Science Campus, Kochi, Kerala-682041. India
| | - Roshni P R
- Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi, 682041, Kerala. India
| | - Bijo Mathew
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Palakkad, Kerala, India-678557. India
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Badhe RV, Nipate SS. The use of negative oxygen ion clusters [O 2-(H 2O) n] and bicarbonate ions [HCO 3-] as the supportive treatment of COVID-19 infections: A possibility. Med Hypotheses 2021; 154:110658. [PMID: 34390895 PMCID: PMC8339564 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2021.110658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 or novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is challenging worldwide healthcare system and severely affecting global economy. Furious efforts to end the pandemic including prevention of spread of SARS-CoV-2, use of antiviral drugs, symptomatic treatments and vaccination are underway. But there are no effective treatments available to save the dying patient in stage 2 (pulmonary) and stage 3 (hyperinflammation) of the infection. The detailed genetic and phenotypical analysis of SARS-CoV-2 revealed that the spike protein (S1) has increased positive charges (compared to SARS-CoV) on them and are responsible for attachment to human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor and infection by the virus. In addition, it was also reported that the inflammation in the tissue rendered the lung environment more acidic supporting the fusion of SARS-CoV-2 with the cells. We hypothesize that the intermittent use of the oxygen ionizer generating negative oxygen ion clusters [O2-(H2O)n] and sodium bicarbonate nebulizer (generating HCO3-); when connected to ventilator inlet or oxygen concentrator will neutralize the spike protein of the virus in respiratory tract and lungs and change the lung environment to neutral/alkaline condition respectively facilitating improved oxygen pressure in blood. These physical changes can effectively reduce the viral burden and help the patient recover from the infection faster.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sonali S Nipate
- SidIra Laboratories, Moshi, Pune, Maharashtra, India; Pharmacology Department, Modern College of Pharmacy, Nigdi, Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Zoran MA, Savastru RS, Savastru DM, Tautan MN, Baschir LA, Tenciu DV. Exploring the linkage between seasonality of environmental factors and COVID-19 waves in Madrid, Spain. PROCESS SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION : TRANSACTIONS OF THE INSTITUTION OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERS, PART B 2021; 152:583-600. [PMID: 36285289 PMCID: PMC9584827 DOI: 10.1016/j.psep.2021.06.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Like several countries, Spain experienced a multi wave pattern of COVID-19 pandemic over more than one year period, between spring 2020 and spring 2021. The transmission of SARS-CoV-2 pandemics is a multi-factorial process involving among other factors outdoor environmental variables and viral inactivation.This study aims to quantify the impact of climate and air pollution factors seasonality on incidence and severity of COVID-19 disease waves in Madrid metropolitan region in Spain. We employed descriptive statistics and Spearman rank correlation tests for analysis of daily in-situ and geospatial time-series of air quality and climate data to investigate the associations with COVID-19 incidence and lethality in Madrid under different synoptic meteorological patterns. During the analyzed period (1 January 2020-28 February 2021), with one month before each of three COVID-19 waves were recorded anomalous anticyclonic circulations in the mid-troposphere, with positive anomalies of geopotential heights at 500 mb and favorable stability conditions for SARS-CoV-2 fast diffusion. In addition, the results reveal that air temperature, Planetary Boundary Layer height, ground level ozone have a significant negative relationship with daily new COVID-19 confirmed cases and deaths. The findings of this study provide useful information to the public health authorities and policymakers for optimizing interventions during pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Zoran
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele-Bucharest, 077125, Romania
| | - Roxana S Savastru
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele-Bucharest, 077125, Romania
| | - Dan M Savastru
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele-Bucharest, 077125, Romania
| | - Marina N Tautan
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele-Bucharest, 077125, Romania
| | - Laurentiu A Baschir
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele-Bucharest, 077125, Romania
| | - Daniel V Tenciu
- IT Department, National Institute of R&D for Optoelectronics, Atomistilor Street 409, MG5, Magurele-Bucharest, 077125, Romania
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The antiviral activity of iota-, kappa-, and lambda-carrageenan against COVID-19: A critical review. CLINICAL EPIDEMIOLOGY AND GLOBAL HEALTH 2021; 12:100826. [PMID: 34222718 PMCID: PMC8240443 DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2021.100826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective There is no specific antiviral treatment available for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Among the possible natural constituents is carrageenan, a polymer derived from marine algae that possesses a variety of antiviral properties. The purpose of this review was to summarize the evidence supporting carrageenan subtypes' antiviral activity against the emerging severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of COVID-19. Methods PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar searches were conducted for publications using the terms 'carrageenan', 'iota carrageenan', 'kappa carrageenan', lambda-carrageenan', 'coronavirus', 'common cold', 'rhinovirus', and 'SARS-CoV-2' search was also done in grey literature to increase our understanding. A search for the word "carrageenan" was also carried out. Most of the publications were discussed in narrative. Results Carrageenan has been shown to have potent antiviral activity against both coronaviruses (coronavirus NL63, SARS-CoV-2) and non-coronaviruses such as dengue virus, herpes simplex virus, cytomegalovirus, vaccinia virus, vesicular stomatitis virus, sindbis virus, human immunodeficiency virus, influenza virus, human papillomavirus, rabies virus, junin virus, tacaribe virus, African swine fever, bovine herpes virus, suid herpes virus, and rhinovirus. No in vivo study has been conducted using carrageenan as an anti-SARS-CoV-2 agent. The majority of the in vivo research was done on influenza, a respiratory virus that causes common cold together with coronavirus. Thus, various clinical trials were conducted to determine the transferability of these in vitro data to clinical effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2. When combined with oral ivermectin, nasally administered iota-carrageenan improved outcome in COVID-19 patients. It is still being tested in clinics for single-dose administration. Conclusion Though the carrageenan exhibited potent antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 and was used to treat COVID-19 under emergency protocol in conjunction with oral medications such as ivermectin, there is no solid evidence from clinical trials to support its efficacy. Thus, clinical trials are required to assess its efficacy for COVID-19 treatment prior to broad application.
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Does the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Receptor Binding Domain Interact Effectively with the DPP4 (CD26) Receptor? A Molecular Docking Study. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22137001. [PMID: 34209788 PMCID: PMC8269389 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
ACE2 has been established as the main receptor for SARS-CoV-2. Since other human coronaviruses are known to use co-receptors for viral cell entry, it has been suggested that DPP4 (CD26) could be a potential additional binding target or co-receptor, supported by early molecular docking simulation studies. However, recent biophysical studies have shown this interaction to be very weak. We have conducted detailed molecular docking simulations to predict the potential binding interactions between the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 and DPP4 and compare them with the interactions observed in the experimentally determined structure of the complex of MERS-CoV with DPP4. Whilst the overall binding mode of the RBD of SARS-CoV-2 to DPP4 is predicted to be similar to that observed in the MERS-CoV-DPP4 complex, including a number of equivalent interactions, important differences in the amino acid sequences of SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV result in substantially weakened interactions with DPP4. This is shown to arise from differences in the predicted proximity, nature and secondary structure at the binding interface on the RBD of SARS-CoV-2. These findings do not support DPP4 being a significant receptor for SARS-CoV-2.
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Xu Y, Zhuang Y, Kang L. A Review of Neurological Involvement in Patients with SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Med Sci Monit 2021; 27:e932962. [PMID: 34145211 PMCID: PMC8221270 DOI: 10.12659/msm.932962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative pathogen of the recent pandemic of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). As the infection spreads, there is increasing evidence of neurological and psychiatric involvement in COVID-19. Headache, impaired consciousness, and olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions are common neurological manifestations described in the literature. Studies demonstrating more specific and more severe neurological involvement such as cerebrovascular insults, encephalitis and Guillain-Barre syndrome are also emerging. Respiratory failure, a significant condition that leads to mortality in COVID-19, is hypothesized to be partly due to brainstem impairment. Notably, some of these neurological complications seem to persist long after infection. This review aims to provide an update on what is currently known about neurological involvement in patients with COVID-19 due to SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this review, we demonstrate invasion routes of SARS-CoV-2, provide evidence to support the neurotropism hypothesis of the virus, and investigate the pathological mechanisms that underlie neurological complications associated with SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidan Xu
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Experimental Animals, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Queen Mary School, Medical Department, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
| | - Yu Zhuang
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Experimental Animals, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Queen Mary School, Medical Department, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
| | - Lumei Kang
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Experimental Animals, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
- Department of Animal Science, Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P.R. China
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Hachem M. SARS-CoV-2 journey to the brain with a focus on potential role of docosahexaenoic acid bioactive lipid mediators. Biochimie 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.02.012
expr 870642717 + 972675317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
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Hachem M. SARS-CoV-2 journey to the brain with a focus on potential role of docosahexaenoic acid bioactive lipid mediators. Biochimie 2021; 184:95-103. [PMID: 33639198 PMCID: PMC7904461 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus Disease 2019 or COVID-19 have infected till day 82,579,768 confirmed cases including 1,818,849 deaths, reported by World Health Organization WHO. COVID-19, originated by Severe Acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), contributes to respiratory distress in addition to neurological symptoms in some patients. In the current review, we focused on the neurological complications associated with COVID-19. We discussed different pathways followed by RNA-virus, especially Flaviviridae family in the brain and passage through the Blood-Brain-Barrier BBB. Then, we explored SARS-CoV-2 mechanisms responsible of neuroinvasion and BBB disruption as well as the immunopathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 in the central nervous system CNS. Since SARS-CoV-2 is an enveloped virus, enclosed in a lipid bilayer and that lipids are essential cell components playing numerous biological roles in viral infection and replication, we investigated the lipid metabolism remodeling upon coronavirus replication. We also highlighted the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective potential of an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid DHA, as well as several bioactive lipid mediators. Altogether, our data allow better understanding of SARS-CoV-2 neuroinvasion and could assist in drug targeting to decline the burden of short-term and long-term neurological manifestations of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayssa Hachem
- Khalifa University, Department of Chemistry, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
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