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Pearson BG, Walker DH, Lea AS, Khalife W, Kislingbury KK, Lick SD, Boor PJ. Early, rapidly progressive vasculopathy in a transplanted heart: A possible complication of COVID-19. Cardiovasc Pathol 2024; 72:107661. [PMID: 38801983 DOI: 10.1016/j.carpath.2024.107661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The epidemic caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has had a significant global impact, especially on immunosuppressed populations such as heart transplant recipients. While SARS-CoV-2 initially infects the respiratory system, cardiovascular complications induced by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) include cardiac arrest, myocardial infarction, heart failure, myocarditis, arrhythmia, acute myocyte injury, thrombotic events, and cardiogenic shock. Here, we present a case of a 45-year-old African American male who tested positive for COVID-19 infection six months after receiving a heart transplant. The patient was asymptomatic initially, but two weeks later he developed dyspnea, early satiety, and abdominal bloating. The patient was admitted to the hospital for acute renal failure and subsequently diagnosed with moderate acute T cell-mediated allograft rejection (Grade 2R) by endomyocardial biopsy. Three months after testing positive for COVID-19, the patient suffered a sudden cardiac death. At autopsy, the epicardium was diffusely edematous and showed vascular congestion. The coronary arteries showed a striking concentric narrowing of lumens and diffusely thickened arterial walls of all major extramural arteries deemed consistent with a rapidly progressive form of cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV). SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein was localized by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in endothelial cells of venules and capillaries within the epicardium. Our localization of SARS-CoV-2 in coronary vessel endothelial cells by IHC suggests that endothelial cell infection, endotheliitis, and immune-related inflammation may be a primary mechanism of vascular injury. The present case represents an early onset rapidly progressive form of CAV. This case may be the first case of post-transplant arteriopathy occurring in such a short time that includes corresponding autopsy, surgical pathology, and IHC data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan G Pearson
- John Sealy School of Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, USA.
| | - David H Walker
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Alfred S Lea
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Wissam Khalife
- Department of Cardiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Karen K Kislingbury
- Department of Cardiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Scott D Lick
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Paul J Boor
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, USA
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Kurbel S. Reinventing the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system based on experience from the COVID-19 pandemic. J Physiol 2024. [PMID: 39197087 DOI: 10.1113/jp287202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/30/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sven Kurbel
- Medical Faculty, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
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Tawengi M, Al-Dali Y, Tawengi A, Benter IF, Akhtar S. Targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR/ErbB) for the potential treatment of renal pathologies. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1394997. [PMID: 39234105 PMCID: PMC11373609 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1394997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is referred to as ErbB1/HER1, is the prototype of the EGFR family of receptor tyrosine kinases which also comprises ErbB2 (Neu, HER2), ErbB3 (HER3), and ErbB4 (HER4). EGFR, along with other ErbBs, is expressed in the kidney tubules and is physiologically involved in nephrogenesis and tissue repair, mainly following acute kidney injury. However, its sustained activation is linked to several kidney pathologies, including diabetic nephropathy, hypertensive nephropathy, glomerulonephritis, chronic kidney disease, and renal fibrosis. This review aims to provide a summary of the recent findings regarding the consequences of EGFR activation in several key renal pathologies. We also discuss the potential interplay between EGFR and the reno-protective angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7), a heptapeptide member of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system that counter-regulates the actions of angiotensin II. Ang-(1-7)-mediated inhibition of EGFR transactivation might represent a potential mechanism of action for its renoprotection. Our review suggests that there is a significant body of evidence supporting the potential inhibition of EGFR/ErbB, and/or administration of Ang-(1-7), as potential novel therapeutic strategies in the treatment of renal pathologies. Thus, EGFR inhibitors such as Gefitinib and Erlinotib that have an acceptable safety profile and have been clinically used in cancer chemotherapy since their FDA approval in the early 2000s, might be considered for repurposing in the treatment of renal pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Tawengi
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Yazan Al-Dali
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Ibrahim F Benter
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Final International University, Kyrenia, Cyprus
| | - Saghir Akhtar
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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Habib YH, Sheta E, Khattab M, Gowayed MA. Diminazene aceturate or losartan ameliorates the functional, radiological and histopathological alterations in knee osteoarthritis rodent model: repurposing of the ACE2/Ang1-7/MasR cascade. J Exp Orthop 2023; 10:107. [PMID: 37878123 PMCID: PMC10600085 DOI: 10.1186/s40634-023-00673-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Current therapies for osteoarthritis (OA) are limited to analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Considering the importance of oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators in OA etiology, we tested the hypothesis that targeting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) can improve OA anomalies. Diminazene (DIZE), an activator of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and the angiotensin 2 type-1 receptor blocker losartan (LOS) were used for this purpose. METHODS OA was induced by a single intra-articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate. The effects of exposure to DIZE or LOS for 21 days on OA anomalies in rats' knees were investigated. Evaluation of motor function, nociception, and inflammatory response was done using rotarod, knee bend and knee swelling tests. Markers of knee joint inflammation, and cellular oxidation in addition to the RAAS biomarkers, were assessed in knee tissues, along with radiological and histopathological investigations. RESULTS Elevations in inflammatory and oxidative markers in knee tissues of OA rats were mostly improved by the two therapeutic drugs. Such effect was also reflected in the rotarod, knee bend and knee swelling tests. Treatment with DIZE has shown a more prominent effect than LOS in controlling OA-associated inflammation and cellular oxidation. Markers of RAAS have also shown better responsiveness to DIZE over LOS. CONCLUSIONS DIZE has shown a prominent increase in the angiotensin 1-7 amount, highlighting the involvement of the signaling pathway in the immunomodulatory effect. The radiological and histopathology examination came to confirm the outcome of biochemical markers, nominating diminazene aceturate as a possible therapeutic option for OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasser H Habib
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman Sheta
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Khattab
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mennatallah A Gowayed
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharos University in Alexandria, Canal El- Mahmoudia Str., Smouha, Alexandria, Egypt.
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Kurdi A, Mueller T, Weir N. An umbrella review and meta-analysis of renin-angiotensin system drugs use and COVID-19 outcomes. Eur J Clin Invest 2023; 53:e13888. [PMID: 36205627 PMCID: PMC9874890 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the availability of extensive literature on the effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs)/angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs) on COVID-19 outcomes, the evidence is still controversial. We aimed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the effect of ACEIs/ARBs on COVID-19-related outcomes by summarising the currently available evidence. METHODS An umbrella review was conducted using Medline (OVID), Embase, Scopus, Cochrane library and medRxiv from inception to 1 February 2021. Systematic reviews with meta-analysis that evaluated the effect of ACEIs/ARBs on COVID-19-related clinical outcomes were eligible. Studies' quality was appraised using the AMSTAR 2 Critical Appraisal Tool. Data were analysed using the random-effects modelling including several subgroup analyses. Heterogenicity was assessed using I2 statistic. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021233398) and reported using PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS Overall, 47 reviews were eligible for inclusion. Out of the nine COVID-19 outcomes evaluated, there was significant associations between ACEIs/ARBs use and each of death (OR = 0.80, 95%CI = 0.75-0.86; I2 = 51.9%), death/ICU admission as composite outcome (OR = 0.86, 95%CI = 0.80-0.92; I2 = 43.9%), severe COVID-19 (OR = 0.86, 95%CI = 0.78-0.95; I2 = 68%) and hospitalisation (OR = 1.23, 95%CI = 1.04-1.46; I2 = 76.4%). The significant reduction in death/ICU admission, however, was higher among studies which presented adjusted measure of effects (OR = 0.63, 95%CI = 0.47-0.84) and were of moderate quality (OR = 0.74, 95%CI = 0.63-0.85). CONCLUSIONS Collective evidence from observational studies indicate a good quality evidence on the significant association between ACEIs/ARBs use and reduction in death and death/ICU admission, but poor-quality evidence on both reducing severe COVID-19 and increasing hospitalisation. Our findings further support the current recommendations of not discontinuing ACEIs/ARBs therapy in patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanj Kurdi
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, University of StrathclydeGlasgowScotlandUK
- Department of Pharmacology and ToxicologyCollege of Pharmacy, Kurdistan Region Government, Hawler Medical UniversityErbilIraq
- Division of Public Health Pharmacy and ManagementSchool of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences UniversityPretoriaSouth Africa
| | - Tanja Mueller
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, University of StrathclydeGlasgowScotlandUK
| | - Natalie Weir
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, University of StrathclydeGlasgowScotlandUK
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Akhtar S, Babiker F, Akhtar UA, Benter IF. Mitigating Cardiotoxicity of Dendrimers: Angiotensin-(1-7) via Its Mas Receptor Ameliorates PAMAM-Induced Cardiac Dysfunction in the Isolated Mammalian Heart. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122673. [PMID: 36559167 PMCID: PMC9781033 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM The influence of the physiochemical properties of dendrimer nanoparticles on cardiac contractility and hemodynamics are not known. Herein, we investigated (a) the effect of polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer generation (G7, G6, G5, G4 and G3) and surface chemistry (-NH2, -COOH and -OH) on cardiac function in mammalian hearts following ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, and (b) determined if any PAMAM-induced cardiotoxicity could be mitigated by Angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7), a cardioprotective agent. METHODS Hearts isolated from male Wistar rats underwent regional I/R and/or treatment with different PAMAM dendrimers, Ang-(1-7) or its MAS receptors antagonists. Thirty minutes of regional ischemia through ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery was followed by 30 min of reperfusion. All treatments were initiated 5 min prior to reperfusion and maintained during the first 10 min of reperfusion. Cardiac function parameters for left ventricular contractility, hemodynamics and vascular dynamics data were acquired digitally, whereas cardiac enzymes and infarct size were used as measures of cardiac injury. RESULTS Treatment of isolated hearts with increasing doses of G7 PAMAM dendrimer progressively exacerbated recovery of cardiac contractility and hemodynamic parameters post-I/R injury. Impairment of cardiac function was progressively less on decreasing dendrimer generation with G3 exhibiting little or no cardiotoxicity. Cationic PAMAMs (-NH2) were more toxic than anionic (-COOH), with neutral PAMAMs (-OH) exhibiting the least cardiotoxicity. Cationic G7 PAMAM-induced cardiac dysfunction was significantly reversed by Ang-(1-7) administration. These cardioprotective effects of Ang-(1-7) were significantly revoked by administration of the MAS receptor antagonists, A779 and D-Pro7-Ang-(1-7). CONCLUSIONS PAMAM dendrimers can impair the recovery of hearts from I/R injury in a dose-, dendrimer-generation-(size) and surface-charge dependent manner. Importantly, PAMAM-induced cardiotoxicity could be mitigated by Ang-(1-7) acting through its MAS receptor. Thus, this study highlights the activation of Ang-(1-7)/Mas receptor axis as a novel strategy to overcome dendrimer-induced cardiotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saghir Akhtar
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
- Correspondence: (S.A.); (F.B.)
| | - Fawzi Babiker
- Departments of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Health Science Center, Kuwait University, Safat P.O. Box 24923, Kuwait
- Correspondence: (S.A.); (F.B.)
| | - Usman A. Akhtar
- Department of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
| | - Ibrahim F. Benter
- Faculty of Medicine, Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta 99628, North Cyprus, Turkey
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Maranduca MA, Tanase DM, Cozma CT, Dima N, Clim A, Pinzariu AC, Serban DN, Serban IL. The Impact of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme-2/Angiotensin 1-7 Axis in Establishing Severe COVID-19 Consequences. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14091906. [PMID: 36145655 PMCID: PMC9505151 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14091906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has put a tremendous stress on the medical community over the last two years. Managing the infection proved a lot more difficult after several research communities started to recognize the long-term effects of this disease. The cellular receptor for the virus was identified as angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2), a molecule responsible for a wide array of processes, broadly variable amongst different organs. Angiotensin (Ang) 1-7 is the product of Ang II, a decaying reaction catalysed by ACE2. The effects observed after altering the level of ACE2 are essentially related to the variation of Ang 1-7. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is comprised of two main branches, with ACE2 representing a crucial component of the protective part of the complex. The ACE2/Ang (1-7) axis is well represented in the testis, heart, brain, kidney, and intestine. Infection with the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus determines downregulation of ACE2 and interrupts the equilibrium between ACE and ACE2 in these organs. In this review, we highlight the link between the local effects of RAAS and the consequences of COVID-19 infection as they arise from observational studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minela Aida Maranduca
- Internal Medicine Clinic, “St. Spiridon” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Daniela Maria Tanase
- Internal Medicine Clinic, “St. Spiridon” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Cristian Tudor Cozma
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Nicoleta Dima
- Internal Medicine Clinic, “St. Spiridon” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Andreea Clim
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Alin Constantin Pinzariu
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Dragomir Nicolae Serban
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ionela Lacramioara Serban
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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Sen R, Sengupta D, Mukherjee A. Mechanical dependency of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone (RAAS) axis: a possible new threat. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:62235-62247. [PMID: 34859345 PMCID: PMC8638800 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-16356-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Pathogens in our environment can act as agents capable of inflicting severe human diseases. Among them, the SARS-CoV-2 virus has recently plagued the globe and paralyzed the functioning of ordinary human life. The virus enters the cell through the angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) receptor, an integral part of the renin-angiotensin system (RAAS). Reports on hypertension and its relation to the modulation of the RAAS are generating interest in the scientific community. This short review focuses on the SARS-CoV-2 infection's direct and indirect effects on our body through modulation of the RAAS axis. A patient having severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, which causes COVID-19 relates to hypertension as a pre-existing disease or develops it in a post-COVID scenario. Several studies on how SARS-CoV-2 modulates the RAAS axis indicate that it alters our body's physiological balance. This review seeks to establish a hypothesis on the mechanical dependency of SARS-CoV-2 and RAAS modulation in the human body. This study intends to impart ideas on drug development and designing by targeting the modulation of the RAAS axis to inactivate the pathogenicity of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. A systematic hypothesis can severely attenuate the pathogenicity of the dreadful viruses of the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Sen
- Department of Zoology, Charuchandra College, University of Calcutta, 22, Lake Road, Kolkata, 700029 India
| | | | - Avinaba Mukherjee
- Department of Zoology, Charuchandra College, University of Calcutta, 22, Lake Road, Kolkata, 700029 India
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Arefin S, Hernandez L, Ward LJ, Schwarz A, Barany P, Stenvinkel P, Kublickiene K. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and transmembrane protease serine 2 in female and male patients with end-stage kidney disease. Eur J Clin Invest 2022; 52:e13786. [PMID: 35366343 PMCID: PMC9541326 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with chronic kidney disease are affected by acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) due to multiple comorbidities and altered immune system. The first step of the infection process is the binding of SARS-CoV-2 with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, followed by its priming by transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2). We hypothesized that circulating soluble ACE2 levels, as well as the expressions of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in the microvasculature, are increased in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). METHODS A total of 210 participants were enrolled, representing 80 ESKD patients and 73 non-CKD controls for soluble ACE2, and 31 ESKD and 26 non-CKD controls for vasculature and fat tissue bioassays. We have assessed ACE2 expression in blood using ELISA and in tissue using immunofluorescence. RESULTS Soluble ACE2 levels were higher in ESKD patients compared to controls; however, there is no sex difference observed. In ESKD and controls, soluble ACE2 positively correlated with Interleukin 6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP), respectively. Similarly, ACE2 tissue expression in the vasculature was higher in ESKD patients; moreover, this higher ACE2 expression was observed only in male ESKD patients. In addition, TMPRSS2 expression was observed in vessels from males and females but showed no sex difference. The expression of ACE2 receptor was higher in ESKD patients on ACE-inhibitor/angiotensin blocker treatment. CONCLUSION ESKD is associated with increased ACE2 levels in the circulation and pronounced in male vasculature; however, further studies are warranted to assess possible sex differences on specific treatment regime(s) for different comorbidities present in ESKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samsul Arefin
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention & Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Leah Hernandez
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention & Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Liam J Ward
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention & Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Angelina Schwarz
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention & Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Peter Barany
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention & Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Stenvinkel
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention & Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karolina Kublickiene
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention & Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Zhou Y, Li J, Wang L, Zhu X, Zhang M, Zheng J. Acute Kidney Injury and Drugs Prescribed for COVID-19 in Diabetes Patients: A Real-World Disproportionality Analysis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:833679. [PMID: 35370750 PMCID: PMC8968134 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.833679] [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: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The information is relatively scarce regarding the occurrence of drug-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) when anti-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) drugs are prescribed for patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate a pharmacovigilance signal for AKI upon the use of common drugs prescribed for COVID-19 treatment, especially in patients with DM. Methods: The FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database were used, and data from the first quarter of 2020 to the third quarter of 2021 were retrieved. A disproportionality analysis was performed to determine whether AKI was more frequently reported with anti-COVID-19 drugs compared to that with other drugs in different populations. Further, reporting odds ratios (RORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to calculate disproportionality. Results: We identified 33,488 COVID-19 patients and 2397 COVID-19 patients with DM. AKI was the most frequent adverse drug reaction (ADR) reported in this patient population. The primary suspected drugs related to AKI in more than half of the reports (75.60%, 127/168) were four common anti-COVID-19 drugs (remdesivir, tocilizumab, hydroxychloroquine, and lopinavir/ritonavir). Compared with other drugs in the same time window, remdesivir and lopinavir/ritonavir were associated with an increased risk of AKI in all COVID-19 patients (ROR: 3.97, 95% CI: 3.51–4.50; ROR: 4.02, 95% CI: 3.11–5.19, respectively). In COVID-19 patients with DM, remdesivir was significantly associated with AKI (ROR: 5.65, 95% CI: 4.06–7.87); meanwhile, there was a new AKI signal associated with tocilizumab (ROR: 2.37, 95% CI: 1.19–4.72). After sensitivity analyses in COVID-19 patients with DM, consistent results for remdesivir were observed; however, the AKI signals for tocilizumab were unstable. Conclusion: Our study confirmed the association of AKI with the usage of common anti-COVID-19 drugs (especially remdesivir and tocilizumab) in DM patients. These safety signals suggested more individualized treatments for COVID-19 patients with comorbidities. Cross-disciplinary collaborative is needed to improve current strategy of clinical treatment and develop new approaches to management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Administration, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jianbin Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Administration, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Linyao Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Administration, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xinyan Zhu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Administration, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Meilian Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Fujian Provincial Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jiaping Zheng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
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11
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Advances in Targeting ACE2 for Developing COVID-19 Therapeutics. Ann Biomed Eng 2022; 50:1734-1749. [PMID: 36261668 PMCID: PMC9581451 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-022-03094-w] [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] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic in December 2019, the SARS-CoV-2 virus has accounted for over 6.3 million lives resulting in the demand to develop novel therapeutic approaches to target and treat SARS-CoV-2. Improved understanding of viral entry and infection mechanisms has led to identifying different target receptors to mitigate infection in the host. Researchers have been working on identifying and targeting potential therapeutic target receptors utilizing different candidate drugs. Angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) has been known to perform critical functions in maintaining healthy cardiorespiratory function. However, ACE2 also functions as the binding site for the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, allowing the virus to enter the cells and ensue infection. Therefore, drugs targeting ACE2 receptors can be considered as therapeutic candidates. Strategies targeting the level of ACE2 expression have been investigated and compared to other potential therapeutic targets, such as TMPRSS2, RdRp, and DPP4. This mini review discusses the key therapeutic approaches that target the ACE2 receptor, which is critical to the cellular entry and propagation of the novel SARS-CoV-2. In addition, we summarize the main advantages of ACE2 targeting against alternative approaches for the treatment of COVID-19.
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Nyland JE, Raja-Khan NT, Bettermann K, Haouzi PA, Leslie DL, Kraschnewski JL, Parent LJ, Grigson PS. Diabetes, Drug Treatment, and Mortality in COVID-19: A Multinational Retrospective Cohort Study. Diabetes 2021; 70:2903-2916. [PMID: 34580086 PMCID: PMC8660979 DOI: 10.2337/db21-0385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are at increased risk of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outcomes possibly because of dysregulated inflammatory responses. Glucose-regulating medications, such as glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists, dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, and pioglitazone, are known to have anti-inflammatory effects that may improve outcomes in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. In a multinational retrospective cohort study, we used the TriNetX COVID-19 Research Network of 56 large health care organizations to examine these medications in relation to the incidence of hospital admissions, respiratory complications, and mortality within 28 days after a COVID-19 diagnosis. After matching for age, sex, race, ethnicity, BMI, and significant comorbidities, use of GLP-1R agonists and/or pioglitazone was associated with significant reductions in hospital admissions (GLP-1R: 15.7% vs. 23.5%, risk ratio [RR] 0.67 [95% CI 0.57-0.79; P < 0.001]; pioglitazone: 20.0% vs. 28.2%; RR 0.71 [95% CI 0.54-0.93; P = 0.01]). Use of GLP-1R agonists was also associated with reductions in respiratory complications (15.3% vs. 24.9%, RR 0.62 [95% CI 0.52-0.73]; P < 0.001) and incidence of mortality (1.9% vs. 3.3%, RR 0.58 [95% CI 0.35-0.97]; P = 0.04). Use of DPP-4 inhibitors was associated with a reduction in respiratory complications (24.0% vs. 29.2%, RR 0.82 [95% CI 0.74-0.90]; P < 0.001), and continued use of DPP-4 inhibitors after hospitalization was associated with a decrease in mortality compared with those who discontinued use (9% vs. 19%, RR 0.45 [95% CI 0.28-0.72]; P < 0.001). In conclusion, use of glucose-regulating medications, such as GLP-1R agonists, DPP-4 inhibitors, or pioglitazone, may improve COVID-19 outcomes for patients with T2DM; randomized clinical trials are needed to further investigate this possibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E Nyland
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA
| | - Nazia T Raja-Khan
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA
| | - Kerstin Bettermann
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA
| | - Philippe A Haouzi
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA
| | - Douglas L Leslie
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA
| | | | - Leslie J Parent
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA
| | - Patricia Sue Grigson
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA
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13
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Babajani F, Kakavand A, Mohammadi H, Sharifi A, Zakeri S, Asadi S, Afshar ZM, Rahimi Z, Sayad B. COVID-19 and renin angiotensin aldosterone system: Pathogenesis and therapy. Health Sci Rep 2021; 4:e440. [PMID: 34869917 PMCID: PMC8596942 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) binds to the ACE2 component of the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) and infects the human cells. The aims of the present review were to look at the role and alteration of the RAAS components in SARS-CoV-2 infection, therapeutic approaches, and clinical trials in this field. METHODS We surveyed the literature (PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) till August 18, 2021, and 59 published papers regarding the components of the RAAS and their role and alterations in SARS-CoV-2 infection along with various COVID-19 therapies based on the RASS components were included in the study. RESULTS ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, and mineralocorticoid receptor inhibitors are agents that significantly enhance the ACE2 and Ang-(1-7) levels, which can be suggestive for their role as therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Beta-adrenergic blockers, which negatively regulate renin release from juxtaglomerular cells, and vitamin D, as a regulator of the RAAS and renin expression, are proposed therapeutics in the treatment of COVID-19. Some antihyperglycemic agents could be potentially protective against COVID-19-induced lung injury. Also, the inhibition of the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of the transcription pathway as a potential treatment for COVID-19 has been suggested. Finally, resveratrol, an antioxidant that can suppress Ang II, has been suggested as an adjunct to other therapies. CONCLUSION Regarding the suggested potential therapies for COVID-19, there are many clinical trials whose results might change the treatment strategies of SARS-CoV-2 infection. So, the results of well-organized clinical trials on the efficacy and safety of the mentioned agents in the treatment of COVID-19 will be useful in the management and therapy of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Babajani
- Students Research CommitteeKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
| | - Atefeh Kakavand
- Students Research CommitteeKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
| | - Hossien Mohammadi
- Students Research CommitteeKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
| | - Armin Sharifi
- Students Research CommitteeKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
| | - Saba Zakeri
- Students Research CommitteeKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
| | - Soheila Asadi
- Department of Clinical BiochemistryKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
| | - Zeinab Mohseni Afshar
- Infectious Diseases Research CenterKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
| | - Zohreh Rahimi
- Department of Clinical BiochemistryKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
- Behavioral Research CenterKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
| | - Babak Sayad
- Infectious Diseases Research CenterKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
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14
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Kheraldine H, Rachid O, Habib AM, Al Moustafa AE, Benter IF, Akhtar S. Emerging innate biological properties of nano-drug delivery systems: A focus on PAMAM dendrimers and their clinical potential. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 178:113908. [PMID: 34390777 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Drug delivery systems or vectors are usually needed to improve the bioavailability and effectiveness of a drug through improving its pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics at an organ, tissue or cellular level. However, emerging technologies with sensitive readouts as well as a greater understanding of physiological/biological systems have revealed that polymeric drug delivery systems are not biologically inert but can have innate or intrinsic biological actions. In this article, we review the emerging multiple innate biological/toxicological properties of naked polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer delivery systems in the absence of any drug cargo and discuss their correlation with the defined physicochemical properties of PAMAMs in terms of molecular size (generation), architecture, surface charge and chemistry. Further, we assess whether any of the reported intrinsic biological actions of PAMAMs such as their antimicrobial activity or their ability to sequester glucose and modulate key protein interactions or cell signaling pathways, can be exploited clinically such as in the treatment of diabetes and its complications.
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15
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da Silva da Costa FA, Soares MR, Malagutti-Ferreira MJ, da Silva GR, Lívero FADR, Ribeiro-Paes JT. Three-Dimensional Cell Cultures as a Research Platform in Lung Diseases and COVID-19. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2021; 18:735-745. [PMID: 34080133 PMCID: PMC8172328 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-021-00348-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic respiratory diseases (CRD) are a major public health problem worldwide. In the current epidemiological context, CRD have received much interest when considering their correlation with greater susceptibility to SARS-Cov-2 and severe disease (COVID-19). Increasingly more studies have investigated pathophysiological interactions between CRD and COVID-19. AREA COVERED Animal experimentation has decisively contributed to advancing our knowledge of CRD. Considering the increase in ethical restrictions in animal experimentation, researchers must focus on new experimental alternatives. Two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures have complemented animal models and significantly contributed to advancing research in the life sciences. However, 2D cell cultures have several limitations in studies of cellular interactions. Three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures represent a new and robust platform for studying complex biological processes and are a promising alternative in regenerative and translational medicine. EXPERT OPINION Three-dimensional cell cultures are obtained by combining several types of cells in integrated and self-organized systems in a 3D structure. These 3D cell culture systems represent an efficient methodological approach in studies of pathophysiology and lung therapy. More recently, complex 3D culture systems, such as lung-on-a-chip, seek to mimic the physiology of a lung in vivo through a microsystem that simulates alveolar-capillary interactions and exposure to air. The present review introduces and discusses 3D lung cultures as robust platforms for studies of the pathophysiology of CRD and COVID-19 and the mechanisms that underlie interactions between CRD and COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Allan da Silva da Costa
- Department of Bioprocesses and Biotechnology, School of Agricultural Sciences, São Paulo State University - UNESP, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Murilo Racy Soares
- Human Reproduction Division, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo - USP, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Gustavo Ratti da Silva
- Laboratory of Preclinical Research of Natural Products, Paranaense University - UNIPAR, Umuarama, Parana, Brazil
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16
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Specific Risk Factors for Fatal Outcome in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients: Results from a European Multicenter Study. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10173855. [PMID: 34501301 PMCID: PMC8432209 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10173855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The aim of our study was to identify specific risk factors for fatal outcome in critically ill COVID-19 patients. (2) Methods: Our data set consisted of 840 patients enclosed in the LEOSS registry. Using lasso regression for variable selection, a multifactorial logistic regression model was fitted to the response variable survival. Specific risk factors and their odds ratios were derived. A nomogram was developed as a graphical representation of the model. (3) Results: 14 variables were identified as independent factors contributing to the risk of death for critically ill COVID-19 patients: age (OR 1.08, CI 1.06–1.10), cardiovascular disease (OR 1.64, CI 1.06–2.55), pulmonary disease (OR 1.87, CI 1.16–3.03), baseline Statin treatment (0.54, CI 0.33–0.87), oxygen saturation (unit = 1%, OR 0.94, CI 0.92–0.96), leukocytes (unit 1000/μL, OR 1.04, CI 1.01–1.07), lymphocytes (unit 100/μL, OR 0.96, CI 0.94–0.99), platelets (unit 100,000/μL, OR 0.70, CI 0.62–0.80), procalcitonin (unit ng/mL, OR 1.11, CI 1.05–1.18), kidney failure (OR 1.68, CI 1.05–2.70), congestive heart failure (OR 2.62, CI 1.11–6.21), severe liver failure (OR 4.93, CI 1.94–12.52), and a quick SOFA score of 3 (OR 1.78, CI 1.14–2.78). The nomogram graphically displays the importance of these 14 factors for mortality. (4) Conclusions: There are risk factors that are specific to the subpopulation of critically ill COVID-19 patients.
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17
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Alshanwani A, Kashour T, Badr A. Anti-Diabetic Drugs GLP-1 Agonists and DPP-4 Inhibitors may Represent Potential Therapeutic Approaches for COVID-19. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2021; 22:571-578. [PMID: 34370655 DOI: 10.2174/1871530321666210809153558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The fast spread of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) calls for immediate action to counter the associated significant loss of human life and deep economic impact. Certain patient populations like those with obesity and diabetes are at higher risk for acquiring severe COVID-19 disease and have a higher risk of COVID-19 associated mortality. In the absence of an effective and safe vaccine, the only immediate promising approach is to repurpose an existing approved drug. Several drugs have been proposed and tested as adjunctive therapy for COVID-19. Among these drugs are the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) 2 agonists and the dipeptidylpeptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. Beyond their glucose-lowering effects, these drugs have several pleiotropic protective properties, which include cardioprotective effects, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities, antifibrotic effects, antithrombotic effects, and vascular endothelial protective properties. This narrative review discusses these protective properties and addresses their scientific plausibility for their potential use as adjunctive therapy for COVID-19 disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliah Alshanwani
- College of Medicine, Physiology Department, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tarek Kashour
- King Fahd Cardiac Centre, King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amira Badr
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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18
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Shraim BA, Moursi MO, Benter IF, Habib AM, Akhtar S. The Role of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Family of Receptor Tyrosine Kinases in Mediating Diabetes-Induced Cardiovascular Complications. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:701390. [PMID: 34408653 PMCID: PMC8365470 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.701390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a major debilitating disease whose global incidence is progressively increasing with currently over 463 million adult sufferers and this figure will likely reach over 700 million by the year 2045. It is the complications of diabetes such as cardiovascular, renal, neuronal and ocular dysfunction that lead to increased patient morbidity and mortality. Of these, cardiovascular complications that can result in stroke and cardiomyopathies are 2- to 5-fold more likely in diabetes but the underlying mechanisms involved in their development are not fully understood. Emerging research suggests that members of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR/ErbB/HER) family of tyrosine kinases can have a dual role in that they are beneficially required for normal development and physiological functioning of the cardiovascular system (CVS) as well as in salvage pathways following acute cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury but their chronic dysregulation may also be intricately involved in mediating diabetes-induced cardiovascular pathologies. Here we review the evidence for EGFR/ErbB/HER receptors in mediating these dual roles in the CVS and also discuss their potential interplay with the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System heptapeptide, Angiotensin-(1-7), as well the arachidonic acid metabolite, 20-HETE (20-hydroxy-5, 8, 11, 14-eicosatetraenoic acid). A greater understanding of the multi-faceted roles of EGFR/ErbB/HER family of tyrosine kinases and their interplay with other key modulators of cardiovascular function could facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies for treating diabetes-induced cardiovascular complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bara A Shraim
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Moaz O Moursi
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ibrahim F Benter
- Faculty of Medicine, Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta, North Cyprus
| | - Abdella M Habib
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Saghir Akhtar
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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19
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Cooper SL, Boyle E, Jefferson SR, Heslop CRA, Mohan P, Mohanraj GGJ, Sidow HA, Tan RCP, Hill SJ, Woolard J. Role of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone and Kinin-Kallikrein Systems in the Cardiovascular Complications of COVID-19 and Long COVID. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8255. [PMID: 34361021 PMCID: PMC8347967 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients may present as asymptomatic or demonstrate mild to severe and life-threatening symptoms. Although COVID-19 has a respiratory focus, there are major cardiovascular complications (CVCs) associated with infection. The reported CVCs include myocarditis, heart failure, arrhythmias, thromboembolism and blood pressure abnormalities. These occur, in part, because of dysregulation of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) and Kinin-Kallikrein System (KKS). A major route by which SARS-CoV-2 gains cellular entry is via the docking of the viral spike (S) protein to the membrane-bound angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). The roles of ACE2 within the cardiovascular and immune systems are vital to ensure homeostasis. The key routes for the development of CVCs and the recently described long COVID have been hypothesised as the direct consequences of the viral S protein/ACE2 axis, downregulation of ACE2 and the resulting damage inflicted by the immune response. Here, we review the impact of COVID-19 on the cardiovascular system, the mechanisms by which dysregulation of the RAAS and KKS can occur following virus infection and the future implications for pharmacological therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L. Cooper
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK;
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Eleanor Boyle
- School of Medicine, Queen’s Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (E.B.); (S.R.J.); (C.R.A.H.); (P.M.); (G.G.J.M.); (H.A.S.); (R.C.P.T.)
| | - Sophie R. Jefferson
- School of Medicine, Queen’s Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (E.B.); (S.R.J.); (C.R.A.H.); (P.M.); (G.G.J.M.); (H.A.S.); (R.C.P.T.)
| | - Calum R. A. Heslop
- School of Medicine, Queen’s Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (E.B.); (S.R.J.); (C.R.A.H.); (P.M.); (G.G.J.M.); (H.A.S.); (R.C.P.T.)
| | - Pirathini Mohan
- School of Medicine, Queen’s Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (E.B.); (S.R.J.); (C.R.A.H.); (P.M.); (G.G.J.M.); (H.A.S.); (R.C.P.T.)
| | - Gearry G. J. Mohanraj
- School of Medicine, Queen’s Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (E.B.); (S.R.J.); (C.R.A.H.); (P.M.); (G.G.J.M.); (H.A.S.); (R.C.P.T.)
| | - Hamza A. Sidow
- School of Medicine, Queen’s Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (E.B.); (S.R.J.); (C.R.A.H.); (P.M.); (G.G.J.M.); (H.A.S.); (R.C.P.T.)
| | - Rory C. P. Tan
- School of Medicine, Queen’s Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (E.B.); (S.R.J.); (C.R.A.H.); (P.M.); (G.G.J.M.); (H.A.S.); (R.C.P.T.)
| | - Stephen J. Hill
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK;
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Jeanette Woolard
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK;
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
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20
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Yalcin HC, Sukumaran V, Al-Ruweidi MKAA, Shurbaji S. Do Changes in ACE-2 Expression Affect SARS-CoV-2 Virulence and Related Complications: A Closer Look into Membrane-Bound and Soluble Forms. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6703. [PMID: 34201415 PMCID: PMC8269184 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 virus utilizes angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE-2) for cell entry and infection. This enzyme has important functions in the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system to preserve cardiovascular function. In addition to the heart, it is expressed in many tissues including the lung, intestines, brain, and kidney, however, its functions in these organs are mostly unknown. ACE-2 has membrane-bound and soluble forms. Its expression levels are altered in disease states and by a variety of medications. Currently, it is not clear how altered ACE-2 levels influence ACE-2 virulence and relevant complications. In addition, membrane-bound and soluble forms are thought to have different effects. Most work on this topic in the literature is on the SARS-CoV virus that has a high genetic resemblance to SARS-Co-V-2 and also uses ACE-2 enzyme to enter the cell, but with much lower affinity. More recent studies on SARS-CoV-2 are mainly clinical studies aiming at relating the effect of medications that are thought to influence ACE-2 levels, with COVID-19 outcomes for patients under these medications. This review paper aims to summarize what is known about the relationship between ACE-2 levels and SARS-CoV/SARS-CoV-2 virulence under altered ACE-2 expression states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huseyin C. Yalcin
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar; (M.K.A.A.A.-R.); (S.S.)
| | - Vijayakumar Sukumaran
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar; (M.K.A.A.A.-R.); (S.S.)
| | - Mahmoud Khatib A. A. Al-Ruweidi
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar; (M.K.A.A.A.-R.); (S.S.)
- Department of Chemistry and Earth Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Samar Shurbaji
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar; (M.K.A.A.A.-R.); (S.S.)
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21
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Malato J, Sotzny F, Bauer S, Freitag H, Fonseca A, Grabowska AD, Graça L, Cordeiro C, Nacul L, Lacerda EM, Castro-Marrero J, Scheibenbogen C, Westermeier F, Sepúlveda N. The SARS-CoV-2 receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: analysis of high-throughput epigenetic and gene expression studies. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2021:2021.03.23.21254175. [PMID: 33791744 PMCID: PMC8010776 DOI: 10.1101/2021.03.23.21254175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Patients affected by Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) show specific epigenetic and gene expression signatures of the disease. However, it is unknown whether these signatures include abnormal levels of the human angiotensin-converting enzymes, ACE and ACE2, the latter being the main receptor described for the host-cell invasion by SARS-CoV-2. To investigate that, we first re-analyzed available case-control epigenome-wide association studies based on DNA methylation data, and case-control gene expression studies based on microarray data. From these published studies, we found an association between ME/CFS and 4 potentially hypomethylated probes located in the ACE locus. We also found another disease association with one hypomethylated probe located in the transcription start site of ACE2. The same disease associations were obtained for women but not for men after performing sex-specific analyses. In contrast, a meta-analysis of gene expression levels could not provide evidence for a differentially expression of ACE and ACE2 in affected patients when compared to healthy controls. In line with this negative finding, the analysis of a new data set on the gene expression of ACE and ACE2 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells did not find any differences between a female cohort of 37 patients and 34 age-matched healthy controls. Future studies should be conducted to extend this investigation to other potential receptors used by SARS-CoV-2. These studies will help researchers and clinicians to improve the understanding of the health risk imposed by this virus when infecting patients affected by this debilitating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Malato
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- CEAUL – Centro de Estatística e Aplicações, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Franziska Sotzny
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Medical Immunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sandra Bauer
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Medical Immunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Helma Freitag
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Medical Immunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - André Fonseca
- Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Anna D Grabowska
- Department of Biophysics and Human Physiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Luís Graça
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Clara Cordeiro
- CEAUL – Centro de Estatística e Aplicações, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Luís Nacul
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Complex Chronic Diseases Program, British Columbia Women’s Hospital and Health Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Eliana M Lacerda
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jesus Castro-Marrero
- Vall d’Hebron Hospital Research Institute, Division of Rheumatology, ME/CFS Unit, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Scheibenbogen
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Medical Immunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Francisco Westermeier
- Institute of Biomedical Science, FH Joanneum University of Applied Sciences, Graz, Austria
- Centro de Biología y Química Aplicada (CIBQA), Universidad Bernardo O’Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Nuno Sepúlveda
- CEAUL – Centro de Estatística e Aplicações, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Medical Immunology, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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22
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Belančić A, Kresović A, Troskot Dijan M. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in the era of COVID-19: Friend or foe? Clin Obes 2021; 11:e12439. [PMID: 33423388 PMCID: PMC7995087 DOI: 10.1111/cob.12439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present manuscript is to discuss on potential pros and cons of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) as glucose-lowering agents during COVID-19 pandemic, and what is more to evaluate them as potential candidates for the treatment of patients, affected by COVID-19 infection, with or even without diabetes mellitus type 2. Besides being important glucose-lowering agents, GLP-1RAs pose promising anti-inflammatory and anti-obesogenic properties, pulmonary protective effects, as well as beneficial impact on gut microbiome composition. Hence, taking everything previously mentioned into consideration, GLP-1RAs seem to be potential candidates for the treatment of patients, affected by COVID-19 infection, with or even without type 2 diabetes mellitus, as well as excellent antidiabetic (glucose-lowering) agents during COVID-19 pandemic times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrej Belančić
- Department of Clinical PharmacologyUniversity Hospital Centre RijekaRijekaCroatia
| | - Andrea Kresović
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal MedicineUniversity Hospital Centre RijekaRijekaCroatia
| | - Marija Troskot Dijan
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Internal MedicineUniversity Hospital Centre RijekaRijekaCroatia
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23
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Berlie HD, Kale-Pradhan PB, Orzechowski T, Jaber LA. Mechanisms and Potential Roles of Glucose-Lowering Agents in COVID-19: A Review. Ann Pharmacother 2021; 55:1386-1396. [PMID: 33657863 DOI: 10.1177/1060028021999473] [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] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore mechanistic benefits of glucose-lowering agents that extend beyond glycemic control with the potential to mitigate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) complications. DATA SOURCES The following PubMed literature search terms were used from July 2020 to January 2, 2021: diabetes, COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), glucose-lowering agents, and pharmacology. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION English-language studies reporting on the association between diabetes, COVID-19 adverse outcomes, and the potential roles of glucose-lowering agents were reviewed. DATA SYNTHESIS Selected glucose-lowering agents have benefits beyond glycemic control, with the potential to reduce the risks of severe complications during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Key benefits include anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, immune modulating, and enzyme/receptor effects. RELEVANCE TO PATIENT CARE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE This review summarizes the current knowledge of glucose-lowering agents and their potential roles in COVID-19 outcomes. Considering beneficial mechanisms on COVID-19 outcomes that extend beyond glycemic control as well as safety profiles, current data suggest that dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) inhibitors and metformin may have the most promise and warrant further investigation. CONCLUSIONS Certain glucose-lowering agents may offer additional benefits beyond glucose control-namely, by modulating the mechanisms contributing to adverse outcomes related to COVID-19 in patients with diabetes. DPP-IV inhibitors and metformin appear to have the most promise. However, current published literature on diabetes medications and COVID-19 should be interpreted with caution. Most published studies are retrospective and consist of convenience samples, and some lack adequate analytical approaches with confounding biases. Ongoing trials aim to evaluate the effects of glucose-lowering agents in reducing the severity of COVID-19 outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen D Berlie
- Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.,Health Centers Detroit Medical Group, Detroit, MI, USA
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24
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Wang X, Yang C, Sun Y, Sui X, Zhu T, Wang Q, Wang S, Yang J, Yang W, Liu F, Zhang M, Wang Y, Luo Y. A novel screening strategy of anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs via blocking interaction between Spike RBD and ACE2. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 147:106361. [PMID: 33401173 PMCID: PMC7832953 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106361] [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] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Corona virus disease 2019 has spread worldwide, and appropriate drug design and screening activities are required to overcome the associated pandemic. Using computational simulation, blockade mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor binding domain (S RBD) and human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) was clarified based on interactions between RBD and hesperidin. Interactions between anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs and therapy were investigated based on the binding energy and druggability of the compounds, and they exhibited negative correlations; the compounds were classified into eight common types of structures with highest activity. An anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug screening strategy based on blocking S RBD/hACE2 binding was established according to the first key change (interactions between hesperidin and S RBD/hACE2) vs the second key change (interactions between anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs and RBD/hACE2) trends. Our findings provide valuable information on the mechanism of RBD/hACE2 binding and on the associated screening strategies for anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs based on blocking mechanisms of pockets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoning Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Northeast University, Shenyang, China
| | - Chuanxi Yang
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yangyang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Sui
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tong Zhu
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Northeast University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Weijie Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fengying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Minmin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Yuan Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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25
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Grant WB, Lahore H, Rockwell MS. The Benefits of Vitamin D Supplementation for Athletes: Better Performance and Reduced Risk of COVID-19. Nutrients 2020; 12:E3741. [PMID: 33291720 PMCID: PMC7761895 DOI: 10.3390/nu12123741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is having major economic and personal consequences for collegiate and professional sports. Sporting events have been canceled or postponed, and even when baseball and basketball seasons resumed in the United States recently, no fans were in attendance. As play resumed, several players developed COVID-19, disrupting some of the schedules. A hypothesis now under scientific consideration is that taking vitamin supplements to raise serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations could quickly reduce the risk and/or severity of COVID-19. Several mechanisms have been identified through which vitamin D could reduce the risks of infection and severity, death, and long-haul effects of COVID-19: (1) inducing production of cathelicidin and defensins to reduce the survival and replication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus; (2) reducing inflammation and the production of proinflammatory cytokines and risk of the "cytokine storm" that damages the epithelial layer of the lungs, heart, vascular system, and other organs; and (3) increasing production of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, thus limiting the amount of angiotensin II available to the virus to cause damage. Clinical trials have confirmed that vitamin D supplementation reduces risk of acute respiratory tract infections, and approximately 30 observational studies have shown that incidence, severity, and death from COVID-19 are inversely correlated with serum 25(OH)D concentrations. Vitamin D supplementation is already familiar to many athletes and sports teams because it improves athletic performance and increases playing longevity. Thus, athletes should consider vitamin D supplementation to serve as an additional means by which to reduce risk of COVID-19 and its consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- William B. Grant
- Sunlight, Nutrition, and Health Research Center, P.O. Box 641603, San Francisco, CA 94164-1603, USA
| | - Henry Lahore
- VitaminDWiki, 2289 Highland Loop, Port Townsend, WA 98368, USA;
| | - Michelle S. Rockwell
- Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA;
- Center for Transformative Research on Health Behaviors, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
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26
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Matarese A, Gambardella J, Sardu C, Santulli G. miR-98 Regulates TMPRSS2 Expression in Human Endothelial Cells: Key Implications for COVID-19. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8110462. [PMID: 33143053 PMCID: PMC7693865 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8110462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The two main co-factors needed by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to enter human cells are angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2). Here, we focused on the study of microRNAs that specifically target TMPRSS2. Through a bioinformatic approach, we identified miR-98-5p as a suitable candidate. Since we and others have shown that endothelial cells play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), we mechanistically validated miR-98-5p as a regulator of TMPRSS2 transcription in two different human endothelial cell types, derived from the lung and from the umbilical vein. Taken together, our findings indicate that TMPRSS2 represents a valid target in COVID-19 treatment, which may be achieved by specific non-coding-RNA approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Matarese
- Department of Medicine, Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Einstein-Institute for Aging Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; (A.M.); (J.G.)
- AORN “Antonio Cardarelli”, 80100 Naples, Italy
| | - Jessica Gambardella
- Department of Medicine, Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Einstein-Institute for Aging Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; (A.M.); (J.G.)
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, “Federico II” University, and International Translational Research and Medical Education Consortium (ITME), 80131 Naples, Italy
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Fleischer Institute for Diabetes and Metabolism (FIDAM), Einstein-Mount Sinai Diabetes Research Center (ES-DRC), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Celestino Sardu
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
- Department of Medical Sciences, International University of Health and Medical Sciences “S. Camillo”, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Gaetano Santulli
- Department of Medicine, Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Einstein-Institute for Aging Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; (A.M.); (J.G.)
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, “Federico II” University, and International Translational Research and Medical Education Consortium (ITME), 80131 Naples, Italy
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Fleischer Institute for Diabetes and Metabolism (FIDAM), Einstein-Mount Sinai Diabetes Research Center (ES-DRC), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-718-430-3370
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