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Wen TZ, Li TR, Chen XY, Chen HY, Wang S, Fu WJ, Xiao SQ, Luo J, Tang R, Ji JL, Huang JF, He ZC, Luo T, Zhao HL, Chen C, Miao JY, Niu Q, Wang Y, Bian XW, Yao XH. Increased adrenal steroidogenesis and suppressed corticosteroid responsiveness in critical COVID-19. Metabolism 2024; 160:155980. [PMID: 39053691 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2024.155980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on adrenal endocrine metabolism in critically ill patients remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the alterations in adrenal steroidogenic activity, elucidate underlying mechanisms, provide in situ histopathological evidence, and examine the clinical implications. METHODS The comparative analyses of the adrenal cortices from 24 patients with fatal COVID-19 and 20 matched controls were performed, excluding patients previously treated with glucocorticoids. SARS-CoV-2 and its receptors were identified and pathological alterations were examined. Furthermore, histological examinations, immunohistochemical staining and ultrastructural analyses were performed to assess corticosteroid biosynthesis. The zona glomerulosa (ZG) and zona fasciculata (ZF) were then dissected for proteomic analyses. The biological processes that affected steroidogenesis were analyzed by integrating histological, proteomic, and clinical data. Finally, the immunoreactivity and responsive genes of mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid receptors in essential tissues were quantitatively measured to evaluate corticosteroid responsiveness. FINDINGS The demographic characteristics of COVID-19 patients were comparable with those of controls. SARS-CoV-2-like particles were identified in the adrenocortical cells of three patients; however, these particles did not affect cellular morphology or steroid synthesis compared with SARS-CoV-2-negative specimens. Although the adrenals exhibited focal necrosis, vacuolization, microthrombi, and inflammation, widespread degeneration was not evident. Notably, corticosteroid biosynthesis was significantly enhanced in both the ZG and ZF of COVID-19 patients. The increase in the inflammatory response and cellular differentiation in the adrenal cortices of patients with critical COVID-19 was positively correlated with heightened steroidogenic activity. Additionally, the appearance of more dual-ZG/ZF identity cells in COVID-19 adrenals was in accordance with the increased steroidogenic function. However, activated mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid receptors and their responsive genes in vital tissues were markedly reduced in patients with critical COVID-19. INTERPRETATION Critical COVID-19 was characterized by potentiated adrenal steroidogenesis, associated with increased inflammation, enhanced differentiation and elevated dual-ZG/ZF identity cells, alongside suppressed corticosteroid responsiveness. These alterations implied the reduced effectiveness of conventional corticosteroid therapy and underscored the need for evaluation of the adrenal axis and corticosteroid sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Zi Wen
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Tian-Ran Li
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin-Yu Chen
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - He-Yuan Chen
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Wen-Juan Fu
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Shi-Qi Xiao
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Jie Luo
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Rui Tang
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Jia-Le Ji
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Jia-Feng Huang
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhi-Cheng He
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Tao Luo
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Hong-Liang Zhao
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Cong Chen
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing-Ya Miao
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Qin Niu
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China; Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiu-Wu Bian
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China; YuYue Laboratory, Chongqing, China.
| | - Xiao-Hong Yao
- Institute of Pathology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology, Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing, China.
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Asakura-Kinoshita M, Masuda T, Oka K, Ohara K, Miura M, Morinari M, Misawa K, Miyazawa Y, Akimoto T, Shimada K, Nagata D. Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor Combined with Conventional Diuretics Ameliorate Body Fluid Retention without Excessive Plasma Volume Reduction. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1194. [PMID: 38893720 PMCID: PMC11171863 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14111194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
We previously reported that sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors exert sustained fluid homeostatic actions through compensatory increases in osmotic diuresis-induced vasopressin secretion and fluid intake. However, SGLT2 inhibitors alone do not produce durable amelioration of fluid retention. In this study, we examined the comparative effects of the SGLT2 inhibitor dapagliflozin (SGLT2i group, n = 53) and the combined use of dapagliflozin and conventional diuretics, including loop diuretics and/or thiazides (SGLT2i + diuretic group, n = 23), on serum copeptin, a stable, sensitive, and simple surrogate marker of vasopressin release and body fluid status. After six months of treatment, the change in copeptin was significantly lower in the SGLT2i + diuretic group than in the SGLT2i group (-1.4 ± 31.5% vs. 31.5 ± 56.3%, p = 0.0153). The change in the estimated plasma volume calculated using the Strauss formula was not significantly different between the two groups. Contrastingly, changes in interstitial fluid, extracellular water, intracellular water, and total body water were significantly lower in the SGLT2i + diuretic group than in the SGLT2i group. Changes in renin, aldosterone, and absolute epinephrine levels were not significantly different between the two groups. In conclusion, the combined use of the SGLT2 inhibitor dapagliflozin and conventional diuretics inhibited the increase in copeptin levels and remarkably ameliorated fluid retention without excessively reducing plasma volume and activating the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone and sympathetic nervous systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maki Asakura-Kinoshita
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke 3290498, Japan; (M.A.-K.); (K.O.); (K.O.); (K.M.); (T.A.); (D.N.)
| | - Takahiro Masuda
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke 3290498, Japan; (M.A.-K.); (K.O.); (K.O.); (K.M.); (T.A.); (D.N.)
- Department of Nephrology, Shin-Oyama City Hospital, Oyama 3230827, Japan;
| | - Kentaro Oka
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke 3290498, Japan; (M.A.-K.); (K.O.); (K.O.); (K.M.); (T.A.); (D.N.)
- Department of Nephrology, Shin-Oyama City Hospital, Oyama 3230827, Japan;
| | - Ken Ohara
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke 3290498, Japan; (M.A.-K.); (K.O.); (K.O.); (K.M.); (T.A.); (D.N.)
| | - Marina Miura
- Department of Nephrology, Shin-Oyama City Hospital, Oyama 3230827, Japan;
| | - Masato Morinari
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nasu Minami Hospital, Nasu-Karasuyama 3210621, Japan; (M.M.); (Y.M.)
| | - Kyohei Misawa
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke 3290498, Japan; (M.A.-K.); (K.O.); (K.O.); (K.M.); (T.A.); (D.N.)
- Department of Nephrology, Shin-Oyama City Hospital, Oyama 3230827, Japan;
| | - Yasuharu Miyazawa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nasu Minami Hospital, Nasu-Karasuyama 3210621, Japan; (M.M.); (Y.M.)
| | - Tetsu Akimoto
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke 3290498, Japan; (M.A.-K.); (K.O.); (K.O.); (K.M.); (T.A.); (D.N.)
| | - Kazuyuki Shimada
- Department of Cardiology, Shin-Oyama City Hospital, Oyama 3230827, Japan;
| | - Daisuke Nagata
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke 3290498, Japan; (M.A.-K.); (K.O.); (K.O.); (K.M.); (T.A.); (D.N.)
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Kakavandi E, Sadeghi K, Shayestehpour M, Mirhendi H, Rahimi Foroushani A, Mokhtari-Azad T, Shafiei Jandaghi NZ, Yavarian J. Evaluation of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), angiotensin II (Ang II), miR-141-3p, and miR-421 levels in SARS-CoV-2 patients: a case-control study. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:429. [PMID: 38649818 PMCID: PMC11036566 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09310-3] [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: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly contagious virus that uses angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a pivotal member of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), as its cell-entry receptor. Another member of the RAS, angiotensin II (Ang II), is the major biologically active component in this system. There is growing evidence suggesting that serum miRNAs could serve as prognostic biomarkers for SARS-CoV-2 infection and regulate ACE2 expression. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the changes in the serum levels of sACE2 and Ang II, as well as the expression level of miR-141-3p and miR-421 in SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative subjects. METHODS In the present study, the serum levels of sACE2 and Ang II were measured in 94 SARS-CoV-2 positive patients and 94 SARS-CoV-2 negative subjects with some symptoms similar to those of SARS-CoV-2 positive patients using the ELISA method. In addition, the expression level of miR-141-3p and miR-421 as ACE2 regulators and biomarkers was evaluated using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) method. RESULTS The mean serum sACE2 concentration in the SARS-CoV-2-positive group was 3.268 ± 0.410 ng/ml, whereas in the SARS-CoV-2 negative group, it was 3.564 ± 0.437 ng/ml. Additionally, the mean serum Ang II level in the SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative groups were 60.67 ± 6.192 ng/L and 67.97 ± 6.837 ng/L, respectively. However, there was no significant difference in the serum levels of sACE2 (P value: 0.516) and Ang II (P value: 0.134) between the SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative groups. Meanwhile, our findings indicated that the expression levels of miR-141-3p and miR-421 in SARS-CoV-2 positive group were significantly lower and higher than SARS-CoV-2 negative group, respectively (P value < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Taken together, the results of this study showed that the serum levels of sACE2 and Ang II in SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative subjects were not significantly different, but the expression levels of miR-141-3p and miR-421 were altered in SARS-CoV-2 positive patients which need more investigation to be used as biomarkers for COVID-19 diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Kakavandi
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kaveh Sadeghi
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Shayestehpour
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hossein Mirhendi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Abbas Rahimi Foroushani
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Talat Mokhtari-Azad
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Jila Yavarian
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Research Center for Antibiotic Stewardship and Antimicrobial Resistance, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Sütő R, Pócsi M, Fagyas M, Kalina E, Fejes Z, Szentkereszty Z, Kappelmayer J, Nagy Jr. B. Comparison of Different Vascular Biomarkers for Predicting In-Hospital Mortality in Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Microorganisms 2024; 12:229. [PMID: 38276214 PMCID: PMC10820061 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12010229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Severe SARS-CoV-2 elicits a hyper-inflammatory response that results in intravascular inflammation with endothelial injury, which contributes to increased mortality in COVID-19. To predict the outcome of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection, we analyzed the baseline level of different biomarkers of vascular disorders in COVID-19 subjects upon intensive care unit (ICU) admission and prior to any vaccination. A total of 70 severe COVID-19 patients (37 survivors and 33 non-survivors) were included with 16 age- and sex-matched controls. Vascular dysfunction was monitored via soluble VCAM-1, E-selectin, ACE2 and Lp-PLA2, while abnormal platelet activation was evaluated by soluble P-selectin and CD40L in parallel. These results were correlated with routine laboratory parameters and disease outcomes. Among these parameters, VCAM-1 and ACE2 showed significantly higher serum levels in COVID-19 patients with early death vs. convalescent subjects. VCAM-1 was significantly correlated with the Horowitz index (r = 0.3115) and IL-6 (r = 0.4599), while ACE2 was related to E-selectin (r = 0.4143) and CD40L (r = 0.2948). Lp-PLA2 was altered in none of these COVID-19 subcohorts and showed no relationship with the other parameters. Finally, the pre-treatment level of VCAM-1 (≥1420 ng/mL) and ACE2 activity (≥45.2 μU/mL) predicted a larger risk for mortality (Log-Rank p = 0.0031 and p = 0.0117, respectively). Vascular dysfunction with endothelial cell activation is linked to lethal COVID-19, and highly elevated soluble VCAM-1 and ACE2 at admission to ICU may predict unfavorable outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renáta Sütő
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (R.S.); (M.P.); (E.K.); (Z.F.); (J.K.)
- Doctoral School of Kalman Laki, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Gyula Kenézy Campus, Intensive Care Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Marianna Pócsi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (R.S.); (M.P.); (E.K.); (Z.F.); (J.K.)
| | - Miklós Fagyas
- Division of Clinical Physiology, Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Edit Kalina
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (R.S.); (M.P.); (E.K.); (Z.F.); (J.K.)
| | - Zsolt Fejes
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (R.S.); (M.P.); (E.K.); (Z.F.); (J.K.)
| | - Zoltán Szentkereszty
- Gyula Kenézy Campus, Intensive Care Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - János Kappelmayer
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (R.S.); (M.P.); (E.K.); (Z.F.); (J.K.)
| | - Béla Nagy Jr.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (R.S.); (M.P.); (E.K.); (Z.F.); (J.K.)
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Ahiadu BK, Grunbaum A, Rozza N, Kremer RB, Rusling JF. Levels of Angiotensin and Kinin Metabolite Peptides Related to COVID-19 Severity. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:186-194. [PMID: 38230277 PMCID: PMC10789123 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
In addition to crucial roles in normal human biology, peptide metabolites of the renin-angiotensin (RAS) and kallikrein-kinin systems (KKS) have been reported to be altered in COVID-19 patients. Here, we evaluate new data on RAS and KKS peptides in COVID-19 patient serum obtained from a recently developed, fully validated, and optimized stable isotope labeling LC-MS peptide assay. We found that the RAS peptides angiotensin (ANG) 1, 2, 1-5, and 1-7 were downregulated compared to COVID-free surrogate controls, while the KKS peptides Brad, Brad 1-8, and Brad 1-7 were upregulated. This paper focuses on uncovering the possible diagnostic value of these peptides using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses of these data. ROC plots confirmed that all of the analyte peptides in 80 serum samples from COVID-19 patients were significantly altered from "normal" values of the control samples. The best diagnostic sensitivities and selectivities for COVID vs no COVID were found in ROC plots for Brad and Brad 1-7 (both 99% sensitivity, 100% selectivity). We then analyzed levels of all the peptides grouped according to preassigned values of the World Health Organization (WHO) COVID-19 Severity Index. ROC plots differentiated patients with a high WHO severity index from those with a low WHO severity index with moderate success, with BRAD (73% sensitivity, 79% selectivity) and Ang 1-7 (75% sensitivity, 65% selectivity) giving the best diagnostic performance. Results suggest the possible diagnostic value of these peptides as biomarkers to help identify moderate and serious COVID-19 cases at relatively early stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben K. Ahiadu
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
| | - Ami Grunbaum
- Department
of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, 1001 Decarie Blvd., Montreal QC H4A, Canada
| | - Nicholas Rozza
- Department
of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, 1001 Decarie Blvd., Montreal QC H4A, Canada
| | - Richard B. Kremer
- Department
of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, 1001 Decarie Blvd., Montreal QC H4A, Canada
| | - James F. Rusling
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
- Department
of Surgery and Neag Cancer Center, UConn
Health, Farmington, Connecticut 06232, United States
- School
of Chemistry, National University of Ireland
Galway, Galway H91 TK33, Ireland
- Institute
of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, 97 N. Eagleville Road, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, United States
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Omidkhah N, Hadizadeh F, Ghodsi R, Kesharwani P, Sahebkar A. In silico Evaluation of NO-Sartans against SARS-CoV-2. Curr Drug Discov Technol 2024; 21:e050324227669. [PMID: 38445698 DOI: 10.2174/0115701638279362240223070810] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Numerous clinical trials are currently investigating the potential of nitric oxide (NO) as an antiviral agent against coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, some researchers have reported positive effects of certain Sartans against SARS-CoV-2. METHOD Considering the impact of NO-Sartans on the cardiovascular system, we have compiled information on the general structure, synthesis methods, and biological studies of synthesized NOSartans. In silico evaluation of all NO-Sartans and approved sartans against three key SARS-CoV- -2 targets, namely Mpro (PDB ID: 6LU7), NSP16 (PDB ID: 6WKQ), and ACE-2 (PDB ID: 1R4L), was performed using MOE. RESULTS Almost all NO-Sartans and approved sartans demonstrated promising results in inhibiting these SARS-CoV-2 targets. Compound 36 (CLC-1280) showed the best docking scores against the three evaluated targets and was further evaluated using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. CONCLUSION Based on our in silico studies, CLC-1280 (a Valsartan dinitrate) has the potential to be considered as an inhibitor of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, further in vitro and in vivo evaluations are necessary for the drug development process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negar Omidkhah
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Farzin Hadizadeh
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Razieh Ghodsi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Prashant Kesharwani
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard University, New Delhi, 110062, India
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- 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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Oka K, Masuda T, Ohara K, Miura M, Morinari M, Misawa K, Miyazawa Y, Akimoto T, Shimada K, Nagata D. Fluid homeostatic action of dapagliflozin in patients with chronic kidney disease: the DAPA-BODY Trial. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1287066. [PMID: 38155663 PMCID: PMC10753517 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1287066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have both glucose-lowering and diuretic effects. We recently reported that the SGLT2 inhibitor dapagliflozin exerts short-term fluid homeostatic action in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the long-term effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on body fluid status in patients with CKD remain unclear. This was a prospective, non-randomized, open-label study that included a dapagliflozin treatment group (n = 73) and a control group (n = 24) who were followed for 6 months. Body fluid volume was measured using a bioimpedance analysis device. The extracellular water-to-total body water ratio (ECW/TBW), a predictor of renal outcomes, was used as a parameter for body fluid status (fluid retention, 0.400 ≤ ECW/TBW). Six-month treatment with dapagliflozin significantly decreased ECW/TBW compared with the control group (-0.65% ± 2.03% vs. 0.97% ± 2.49%, p = 0.0018). Furthermore, dapagliflozin decreased the ECW/TBW in patients with baseline fluid retention, but not in patients without baseline fluid retention (-1.47% ± 1.93% vs. -0.01% ± 1.88%, p = 0.0017). Vasopressin surrogate marker copeptin levels were similar between the control and dapagliflozin groups at 6 months (32.3 ± 33.4 vs. 30.6 ± 30.1 pmol/L, p = 0.8227). However, dapagliflozin significantly increased the change in copeptin levels at 1 week (39.0% ± 41.6%, p = 0.0010), suggesting a compensatory increase in vasopressin secretion to prevent hypovolemia. Renin and aldosterone levels were similar between the control and dapagliflozin groups at 6 months, while epinephrine and norepinephrine (markers of sympathetic nervous system activity) were significantly lower in the dapagliflozin group than in the control group. In conclusion, the SGLT2 inhibitor dapagliflozin ameliorated fluid retention and maintained euvolemic fluid status in patients with CKD, suggesting that SGLT2 inhibitors exert sustained fluid homeostatic actions in patients with various fluid backgrounds. Clinical trial registration: https://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/, identifier [UMIN000048568].
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Oka
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
- Department of Nephrology, Shin-Oyama City Hospital, Oyama, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Takahiro Masuda
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
- Department of Nephrology, Shin-Oyama City Hospital, Oyama, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Ken Ohara
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Marina Miura
- Department of Nephrology, Shin-Oyama City Hospital, Oyama, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Masato Morinari
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nasu Minami Hospital, Nasukarasuyama, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kyohei Misawa
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
- Department of Nephrology, Shin-Oyama City Hospital, Oyama, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yasuharu Miyazawa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nasu Minami Hospital, Nasukarasuyama, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Tetsu Akimoto
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Shimada
- Department of Cardiology, Shin-Oyama City Hospital, Oyama, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Daisuke Nagata
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
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8
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Ahiadu BK, Ellis T, Graichen A, Kremer RB, Rusling JF. Quantitative detection of RAS and KKS peptides in COVID-19 patient serum by stable isotope dimethyl labeling LC-MS. Analyst 2023; 148:5926-5934. [PMID: 37850419 DOI: 10.1039/d3an00943b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Angiotensin and kinin metabolic pathways are reported to be altered by many diseases, including COVID-19. Monitoring levels of these peptide metabolites is important for understanding mechanisms of disease processes. In this paper, we report dimethyl labeling of amines in peptides by addition of formaldehyde to samples and deutero-formaldehyde to internal standards to generate nearly identical isotopic standards with 4 m/z units larger per amine group than the corresponding analyte. We apply this approach to rapid, multiplexed, absolute LC-MS/MS quantitation of renin angiotensin system (RAS) and kallikrein-kinin system (KKS) peptides in human blood serum. Limits of detection (LODs) were obtained in the low pg mL-1 range with 3 orders of magnitude dynamic ranges, appropriate for determinations of normal and elevated levels of the target peptides in blood serum and plasma. Accuracy is within ±15% at concentrations above the limit of quantitation, as validated by spike-recovery in serum samples. Applicability was demonstrated by measuring RAS and KKS peptides in serum from COVID-19 patients, but is extendable to any class of peptides or other small molecules bearing reactive -NH2 groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben K Ahiadu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA.
| | - Thomas Ellis
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA.
| | - Adam Graichen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA.
| | - Richard B Kremer
- Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, 1001 Decarie Blvd., Montreal, QC H4A, Canada
| | - James F Rusling
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269, USA.
- Department of Surgery and Neag Cancer Center, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut 06232, USA
- School of Chemistry, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
- Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, 97 N. Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
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9
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Bojti I, Przewosnik AS, Luxenburger H, Hofmann M, Neumann-Haefelin C, Esser JS, Siegel PM, Maier A, Kovacs SB, Kardos L, Csanádi Z, Rieder M, Duerschmied D, Lother A, Bode C, Szabó GT, Czuriga D. Decreased level of serum NT-proCNP associates with disease severity in COVID-19. Respir Res 2023; 24:174. [PMID: 37386635 PMCID: PMC10311835 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-023-02469-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is an endothelium-derived paracrine molecule with an important role in vascular homeostasis. In septic patients, the serum level of the amino-terminal propeptide of CNP (NT-proCNP) shows a strong positive correlation with inflammatory biomarkers and, if elevated, correlates with disease severity and indicates a poor outcome. It is not yet known whether NT-proCNP also correlates with the clinical outcome of patients suffering from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. In the current study, we aimed to determine possible changes in the NT-proCNP levels of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), with special regard to disease severity and outcome. METHODS In this retrospective analysis, we determined the serum level of NT-proCNP in hospitalized patients with symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection, using their blood samples taken on admission, stored in a biobank. The NT-proCNP levels of 32 SARS-CoV-2 positive and 35 SARS-CoV-2 negative patients were measured to investigate possible correlation with disease outcome. SARS-CoV-2 positive patients were then divided into two groups based on their need for intensive care unit treatment (severe and mild COVID-19). RESULTS The NT-proCNP was significantly different in the study groups (e.g. severe and mild COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients), but showed inverse changes compared to previous observations in septic patients: lowest levels were detected in critically ill COVID-19 patients, while highest levels in the non-COVID-19 group. A low level of NT-proCNP on admission was significantly associated with severe disease outcome. CONCLUSIONS Low-level NT-proCNP on hospital admission is associated with a severe COVID-19 disease course. The pathomechanism underlying this observation remains to be elucidated, while future studies in larger patient cohorts are necessary to confirm these observations and reveal therapeutic importance. Trial registration DRKS00026655 Registered 26. November 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Istvan Bojti
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Anne-Sophie Przewosnik
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hendrik Luxenburger
- Department of Medicine II (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology and Infectious Diseases), Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- IMM-PACT, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Maike Hofmann
- Department of Medicine II (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology and Infectious Diseases), Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Neumann-Haefelin
- Department of Medicine II (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology and Infectious Diseases), Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jennifer S Esser
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Patrick M Siegel
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Maier
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sarolta Bojtine Kovacs
- IMM-PACT, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Section of Molecular Hematology, Department of Medicine I, Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Laszlo Kardos
- Clinical Department of Infectious Diseases, Clinical Center, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zoltan Csanádi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Marina Rieder
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Duerschmied
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, Haemostaseology and Medical Intensive Care, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- European Center for AngioScience (ECAS) and German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Achim Lother
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Medical Intensive Care, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Bode
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gabor Tamas Szabó
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Daniel Czuriga
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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10
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Naghashpour M, Adelipour M, Mobarak S, Piri M, Seyedtabib M, Maghsoudi F, Golabi S. Evaluation of Possible Association between Serum Levels of Aldosterone and Cortisol with Clinical Symptoms Progression in COVID-19 Suspicious Outpatients Tested for SARS-CoV2 RT-PCR: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study. ARCHIVES OF RAZI INSTITUTE 2023; 78:923-933. [PMID: 38028858 PMCID: PMC10657945 DOI: 10.22092/ari.2021.356094.1774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Aldosterone is a key component of Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS). The RAAS could play a substantial role in the pathophysiology of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Moreover, the dynamics of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis may have changed in COVID-19. Cortisol, as an important factor in assessing immune system activity, is an important part of this axis. The present study compared the serum levels of aldosterone and cortisol in COVID-19 outpatients with those of potentially non-infected participants. It was also aimed to assess the possible association between serum levels of aldosterone and cortisol with clinical symptoms progression in COVID-19 outpatients. Demographic characteristics (i.e., gender and age) and clinical data (i.e., oxygen saturation [SPO2], respiratory rate [RR], and heart rate) were collected. Serum cortisol and aldosterone measurements were conducted using the ELISA technique. Clinical symptoms of the positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) group were followed up on for 28 days in weekly intervals. SPO2 was significantly lower in the positive PCR group; however, the RR was significantly higher (P=0.03 and P=0.001, respectively). Significantly higher levels of aldosterone were found in males of the negative PCR group, compared to females (P=0.05). Cortisol (OR=0.937, P=0.033) and aldosterone (OR=1.005, P=0.020) levels had a decreasing and increasing effect on the chances of respiratory symptoms occurring over time, respectively. Furthermore, over time, women were twice as likely as men to develop neurologic symptoms (OR=0.530, P=0.015). According to the findings of this study, cortisol and aldosterone are associated with the chance of respiratory symptoms occurring over time. However, the levels of these two markers do not seem to be related to the progression of clinical symptoms of lower grades of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Naghashpour
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Abadan University of Medical Sciences, Abadan, Iran
| | - M Adelipour
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - S Mobarak
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Abadan University of Medical Sciences, Abadan, Iran
| | - M Piri
- Vice Chancellor for Health, Abadan University of Medical Sciences, Abadan, Iran
| | - M Seyedtabib
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - F Maghsoudi
- Department of Public Health, School of Health, Abadan University of Medical Sciences, Abadan, Iran
| | - S Golabi
- Department of Medical Physiology, School of Medicine, Abadan University of Medical Sciences, Abadan, Iran
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11
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Alobaidy ASH, Elhelaly M, Amer ME, Shemies RS, Othman AI, El-Missiry MA. Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 gene expression and markers of oxidative stress are correlated with disease severity in patients with COVID-19. Mol Biol Rep 2023:10.1007/s11033-023-08515-0. [PMID: 37222866 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08515-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oxidative stress is thought to play a significant role in the pathogenesis and severity of COVID-19. Additionally, angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression may predict the severity and clinical course of COVID-19. Accordingly, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the association of oxidative stress and ACE2 expression with the clinical severity in patients with COVID-19. METHODS AND RESULTS The present study comprised 40 patients with COVID-19 and 40 matched healthy controls, recruited between September 2021 and March 2022. ACE 2 expression levels were measured using Hera plus SYBR Green qPCR kits with GAPDH used as an internal control. Serum melatonin (MLT) levels, serum malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were estimated using ELISA. The correlations between the levels of the studied markers and clinical indicators of disease severity were evaluated. Significantly, lower expression of ACE2 was observed in COVID-19 patients compared to controls. Patients with COVID-19 had lower serum levels of TAC and MLT but higher serum levels of MDA compared to normal controls. Serum MDA levels were correlated with diastolic blood pressure (DBP), Glasgow coma scale (GCS) scores, and serum potassium levels. Serum MLT levels were positively correlated with DBP, mean arterial pressure (MAP), respiratory rate, and serum potassium levels. TAC was correlated with GCS, mean platelet volume, and serum creatinine levels. Serum MLT levels were significantly lower in patients treated with remdesivir and inotropes. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrates that all markers had utility in discriminating COVID-19 patients from healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS Increased oxidative stress and increased ACE2 expression were correlated with disease severity and poor outcomes in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 in the present study. Melatonin supplementation may provide a utility as an adjuvant therapy in decreasing disease severity and death in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afraa S H Alobaidy
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mona Elhelaly
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Maggie E Amer
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Rasha S Shemies
- Mansoura Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Azza I Othman
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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12
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Abstract
The current epidemic of corona virus disease (COVID-19) has resulted in an immense health burden that became the third leading cause of death and potentially contributed to a decline in life expectancy in the United States. The severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2 binds to the surface-bound peptidase angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2, EC 3.4.17.23) leading to tissue infection and viral replication. ACE2 is an important enzymatic component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) expressed in the lung and other organs. The peptidase regulates the levels of the peptide hormones Ang II and Ang-(1-7), which have distinct and opposing actions to one another, as well as other cardiovascular peptides. A potential consequence of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2 infection is reduced ACE2 activity by internalization of the viral-ACE2 complex and subsequent activation of the RAS (higher ratio of Ang II:Ang-[1-7]) that may exacerbate the acute inflammatory events in COVID-19 patients and possibly contribute to the effects of long COVID-19. Moreover, COVID-19 patients present with an array of autoantibodies to various components of the RAS including the peptide Ang II, the enzyme ACE2, and the AT1 AT2 and Mas receptors. Greater disease severity is also evident in male COVID-19 patients, which may reflect underlying sex differences in the regulation of the 2 distinct functional arms of the RAS. The current review provides a critical evaluation of the evidence for an activated RAS in COVID-19 subjects and whether this system contributes to the greater severity of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2 infection in males as compared with females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark C. Chappell
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
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13
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Scaramuzzo G, Nucera F, Asmundo A, Messina R, Mari M, Montanaro F, Johansen MD, Monaco F, Fadda G, Tuccari G, Hansbro NG, Hansbro PM, Hansel TT, Adcock IM, David A, Kirkham P, Caramori G, Volta CA, Spadaro S. Cellular and molecular features of COVID-19 associated ARDS: therapeutic relevance. J Inflamm (Lond) 2023; 20:11. [PMID: 36941580 PMCID: PMC10027286 DOI: 10.1186/s12950-023-00333-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection can be asymptomatic or cause a disease (COVID-19) characterized by different levels of severity. The main cause of severe COVID-19 and death is represented by acute (or acute on chronic) respiratory failure and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), often requiring hospital admission and ventilator support.The molecular pathogenesis of COVID-19-related ARDS (by now termed c-ARDS) is still poorly understood. In this review we will discuss the genetic susceptibility to COVID-19, the pathogenesis and the local and systemic biomarkers correlated with c-ARDS and the therapeutic options that target the cell signalling pathways of c-ARDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Scaramuzzo
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Emergency, Section of Intensive Care and Anesthesia, Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria Sant'Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesco Nucera
- Pneumologia, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Odontoiatriche e delle Immagini Morfologiche e Funzionali (BIOMORF), Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessio Asmundo
- Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Odontoiatriche e delle Immagini Morfologiche e Funzionali (BIOMORF), Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Roberto Messina
- Intensive Care Unit, Dipartimento di Patologia Umana e dell'Età Evolutiva Gaetano Barresi, Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Matilde Mari
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Emergency, Section of Intensive Care and Anesthesia, Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria Sant'Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Federica Montanaro
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Emergency, Section of Intensive Care and Anesthesia, Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria Sant'Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Matt D Johansen
- Centre for Inflammation, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Francesco Monaco
- Chirurgia Toracica, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Odontoiatriche e delle Immagini Morfologiche e Funzionali (BIOMORF), Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Guido Fadda
- Section of Pathological Anatomy, Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tuccari
- Section of Pathological Anatomy, Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Nicole G Hansbro
- Centre for Inflammation, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Philip M Hansbro
- Centre for Inflammation, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Trevor T Hansel
- Medical Research Council and Asthma, UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, London, UK
| | - Ian M Adcock
- Airway Disease Section, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Antonio David
- Intensive Care Unit, Dipartimento di Patologia Umana e dell'Età Evolutiva Gaetano Barresi, Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Paul Kirkham
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, West Midlands, Wolverhampton, UK
| | - Gaetano Caramori
- Pneumologia, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Odontoiatriche e delle Immagini Morfologiche e Funzionali (BIOMORF), Università di Messina, Messina, Italy.
| | - Carlo Alberto Volta
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Emergency, Section of Intensive Care and Anesthesia, Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria Sant'Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Savino Spadaro
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Emergency, Section of Intensive Care and Anesthesia, Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria Sant'Anna, Ferrara, Italy
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14
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Thomas TS, Walpert AR, Shen G, Dunderdale C, Srinivasa S. Primary Aldosteronism and COVID-19-related Management, Disease Severity, and Outcomes: A Retrospective Cohort Study. J Endocr Soc 2023; 7:bvad015. [PMID: 36824586 PMCID: PMC9942545 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvad015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Context The SARS-CoV-2 virus is dependent on components of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system for infectivity. Primary aldosteronism (PA) is a form of secondary hypertension mediated by autonomous aldosterone production. The intersection of COVID-19 and PA, both which may involve components of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, remains unknown. Methods We assessed PA as a risk factor for COVID-19 infection and compared management, severity of disease, and outcomes during COVID-19 with a matched population of patients with essential hypertension (EH) by conducting a retrospective observational cohort study. Results Of the patients with PA, 81 had a negative PCR test for COVID-19, whereas 43 had a documented positive PCR test for COVID-19. Those patients with PA who tested positive for COVID-19 tended to be female (P = .08) and the majority of those with COVID-19 infection identified as non-White race (P = .02) and Hispanic ethnicity (P = .02). In a subanalysis, 24-hour urine aldosterone on initial PA diagnosis tended to be higher those in the PA group who developed COVID-19 compared with those in the PA group who did not develop COVID-19 [median (interquartile range): 36.5 (16.9, 54.3) vs 22.0 (15.8, 26.8) mcg, P = .049] and was an independent predictor of COVID-19 infection controlling for sex, race, and ethnicity. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, angiotensin II receptor blocker, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist use did not differ between those patients with PA who did and did not have COVID-19 infection. Comparing those patients with PA and matched patients with EH (n = 286) who were COVID-19 PCR positive, there was a significantly higher incidence of cardiovascular complications (12 vs 2%, P = .004) in the PA vs EH group. Conclusion These data begin to inform us as to whether PA should be a newly identified subpopulation at risk for COVID-19-related cardiovascular disease sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teressa S Thomas
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Allie R Walpert
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Grace Shen
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Carolyn Dunderdale
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Suman Srinivasa
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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15
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Tacke C, Bischoff AM, Harb A, Vafadari B, Hülsmann S. Angiotensin II increases respiratory rhythmic activity in the preBötzinger complex without inducing astroglial calcium signaling. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1111263. [PMID: 36816850 PMCID: PMC9932970 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1111263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin II (Ang II) is the primary modulator of the renin-angiotensin system and has been widely studied for its effect on the cardiovascular system. While a few studies have also indicated an involvement of Ang II in the regulation of breathing, very little is known in this regard and its effect on brainstem respiratory regions such as the preBötzinger complex (preBötC), the kernel for inspiratory rhythm generation, has not been investigated yet. This study reports that Ang II temporarily increases phrenic nerve activity in the working heart-brainstem preparation, indicating higher central respiratory drive. Previous studies have shown that the carotid body is involved in mediating this effect and we revealed that the preBötC also plays a part, using acute slices of the brainstem. It appears that Ang II is increasing the respiratory drive in an AT1R-dependent manner by optimizing the interaction of inhibitory and excitatory neurons of the preBötC. Thus, Ang II-mediated effects on the preBötC are potentially involved in dysregulating breathing in patients with acute lung injury.
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16
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Chen H, Peng J, Wang T, Wen J, Chen S, Huang Y, Zhang Y. Counter-regulatory renin-angiotensin system in hypertension: Review and update in the era of COVID-19 pandemic. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 208:115370. [PMID: 36481346 PMCID: PMC9721294 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115370] [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: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is the major cause of mortality and disability, with hypertension being the most prevalent risk factor. Excessive activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) under pathological conditions, leading to vascular remodeling and inflammation, is closely related to cardiovascular dysfunction. The counter-regulatory axis of the RAS consists of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), angiotensin (1-7), angiotensin (1-9), alamandine, proto-oncogene Mas receptor, angiotensin II type-2 receptor and Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor member D. Each of these components has been shown to counteract the effects of the overactivated RAS. In this review, we summarize the latest insights into the complexity and interplay of the counter-regulatory RAS axis in hypertension, highlight the pathophysiological functions of ACE2, a multifunctional molecule linking hypertension and COVID-19, and discuss the function and therapeutic potential of targeting this counter-regulatory RAS axis to prevent and treat hypertension in the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyin Chen
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiangyun Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, Guangdong, China,Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Foshan 528200, Guangdong, China
| | - Tengyao Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, Guangdong, China,Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Foshan 528200, Guangdong, China
| | - Jielu Wen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, Guangdong, China,Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Foshan 528200, Guangdong, China
| | - Sifan Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, Guangdong, China,Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Foshan 528200, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China,Corresponding authors
| | - Yang Zhang
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China,Corresponding authors
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Mortazavi F, Soltanshahi M, Tamaddon G. Evaluation of the Relationship Between Serum miR-200b-3p and miR-214-3p Expression Levels with Soluble ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in COVID-19 Patients. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH : IJPR 2023; 22:e137832. [PMID: 38444707 PMCID: PMC10912867 DOI: 10.5812/ijpr-137832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Background The emergence and rapid global spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has presented a significant global health challenge. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infects human host cells through the interaction of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), which serve as main regulators for viral entry. Specifically, ACE2 and TMPRSS2 genes are influenced by two microRNAs: miR-200b-3p and miR-214-3p, respectively. The objective of this study was to explore the association between the serum levels of miR-200b-3p and miR-214-3p and the presence of circulating ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in severe and non-severe cases of COVID-19. Objectives This study sought to examine the potential utility of microRNAs as biomarkers for assessing disease severity and progression. Additionally, the study aimed to elucidate the interplay between microRNAs and the ACE2 and TMPRSS2 proteins, which play crucial roles in facilitating SARS-CoV-2 viral entry and infection. Methods This practical-foundational study involved the collection of samples from 61 hospitalized patients with confirmed COVID-19 and 31 healthy individuals. Subsequently, the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique was utilized to measure the concentrations of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in the blood samples. Additionally, the expression levels of serum miR-200b-3p and miR-214-3p were analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The statistical analysis of the data was conducted using GraphPad Prism software (version 8.02) and SPSS software (version 19.0), ensuring the accurate interpretation of results. Results The findings revealed significant increases in the peripheral blood concentrations of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in patients with non-severe COVID-19, compared to healthy individuals (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01, respectively). Similarly, patients with severe COVID-19 exhibited higher serum levels of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 than healthy subjects (P < 0.0001). Additionally, the serum levels of miR-200b-3p and miR-214-3p were decreased in both non-severe and severe COVID-19 patients, compared to healthy individuals (P < 0.01 and P < 0.0001, respectively). Moreover, a decrease in the serum levels of both miR-200b-3p and miR-214-3p was observed in patients with severe COVID-19, compared to those with non-severe cases (P < 0.001). Furthermore, this study identified a negative correlation between miR-200b-3p and ACE2 serum levels and between miR-214-3p and TMPRSS2 peripheral blood levels. Conclusions The above-mentioned findings suggest that miR-200b-3p and miR-214-3p might be potential biomarkers for disease severity and prognosis in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Mortazavi
- Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences and Technology Research Center, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohsen Soltanshahi
- Department of Immunology, Medical School, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamhossein Tamaddon
- Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences and Technology Research Center, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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18
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Jiang Z, Wu L, van der Leeden B, van Rossum AC, Niessen HW, Krijnen PA. NOX2 and NOX5 are increased in cardiac microvascular endothelium of deceased COVID-19 patients. Int J Cardiol 2023; 370:454-462. [PMID: 36332749 PMCID: PMC9625847 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2022.10.172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiac injury and inflammation are common findings in COVID-19 patients. Autopsy studies have revealed cardiac microvascular endothelial damage and thrombosis in COVID-19 patients, indicative of microvascular dysfunction in which reactive oxygen species (ROS) may play a role. We explored whether the ROS producing proteins NOX2, NOX4 and NOX5 are involved in COVID-19-induced cardio-microvascular endothelial dysfunction. METHODS Heart tissue were taken from the left (LV) and right (RV) ventricle of COVID-19 patients (n = 15) and the LV of controls (n = 14) at autopsy. The NOX2-, NOX4-, NOX5- and Nitrotyrosine (NT)-positive intramyocardial blood vessels fractions were quantitatively analyzed using immunohistochemistry. RESULTS The LV NOX2+, NOX5+ and NT+ blood vessels fractions in COVID-19 patients were significantly higher than in controls. The fraction of NOX4+ blood vessels in COVID-19 patients was comparable with controls. In COVID-19 patients, the fractions of NOX2+, NOX5+ and NT+ vessels did not differ significantly between the LV and RV, and correlated positively between LV and RV in case of NOX5 (r = 0.710; p = 0.006). A negative correlation between NOX5 and NOX2 (r = -0.591; p = 0.029) and between NOX5 and disease time (r = -0.576; p = 0.034) was noted in the LV of COVID-19 patients. CONCLUSION We show the induction of NOX2 and NOX5 in the cardiac microvascular endothelium in COVID-19 patients, which may contribute to the previously observed cardio-microvascular dysfunction in COVID-19 patients. The exact roles of these NOXes in pathogenesis of COVID-19 however remain to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhu Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pathology, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Microcirculation, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Corresponding author at: Department of Pathology, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Room number L2-111, Meibergdreef 9, 1105, AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Linghe Wu
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pathology, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Microcirculation, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Britt van der Leeden
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pathology, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, AUMC, Location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Albert C. van Rossum
- Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Microcirculation, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Department of Cardiology, AUMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hans W.M. Niessen
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pathology, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Microcirculation, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Department of Cardiac Surgery, AUMC, Location AMC and VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Paul A.J. Krijnen
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pathology, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Microcirculation, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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19
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Naderi N, Rahimzadeh M. The Role of Soluble ACE2 as a Prognostic Marker in Severe COVID-19: A Brief Meta-Analysis. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2023; 23:70-76. [PMID: 35747972 DOI: 10.2174/1871530322666220623121922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recently emerged novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), has posed a serious threat to public health, and there is an urgent need to establish tools that can aid the clinician in the evaluation and management of highrisk patients. This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the potential of sACE2 (soluble angiotensinconverting enzyme 2) as a prognostic biomarker in COVID-19. METHODS A comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Google Scholar, was performed until May 26, 2021. Data extraction and quality assessment of the study were independently conducted by the authors. Finally, 6 studies were included in this meta-analysis. RESULTS ACE-2 serum or plasma levels were compared between COVID-19 patients and healthy controls. ACE-2 level was not significantly different between severe COVID-19 patients and healthy controls (SMD = 1.2; 95% CI: -1.3-1.5; P = 0.86), severe and non-severe COVID-19 patients (SMD = 0.3; 95% CI: -0.06-0.7; P = 0.1), and severe COVID-19 patients and healthy controls (SMD = 0.6; 95% CI: -1.1-2.3; P = 0.5). CONCLUSIONS We cautiously propose that circulating levels of ACE2 cannot be used as a biomarker to assess disease severity in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadereh Naderi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Mahsa Rahimzadeh
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran.,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
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20
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Robertson J, Nellgård B, Hultén LM, Nilsson S, Dalla K, Börjesson M, Zetterberg H, Svanvik J, Gisslén M. Sex difference in circulating soluble form of ACE2 protein in moderate and severe COVID-19 and healthy controls. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1058120. [PMID: 36569121 PMCID: PMC9773379 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1058120] [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: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Membrane-bound angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) in epithelial cells is the main receptor for SARS-CoV-2. The extracellular portion of ACE2 may be shedded to plasma in which process ADAM17 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 17) is important. Results on the relationship between circulating levels of the soluble form of ACE2 (sACE2) and disease severity are inconclusive. This study investigates if sACE2 concentration correlates with COVID-19 severity, and whether this is affected by sex. Materials and methods Soluble form of ACE2 was analyzed in three groups: 104 patients (23 women and 81 men) with severe COVID-19 admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU), patients with moderate COVID-19 who required hospital care (n = 19, 4 women and 15 men), and age and sex matched healthy controls (n = 20, 4 women and 16 men). Blood samples were collected at hospital admission between 18 March 2020, and 3 May 2021, and at follow-up between 27 October 2020, and 19 October 2021. Circulating sACE2 (μg/L) was measured in EDTA plasma with a sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Additionally, CRP, ferritin, and lymphocyte count were analyzed during hospital stay. Results In total, 23 patients (22%) died in the ICU. When comparing healthy controls [mean age 58.1 (SD 11.4) years] and patients with moderate COVID-19 [mean age 61.0 (SD 13.2) years] with patients in the ICU [mean age 63.6 (SD 11.6) years], we found that sACE2 concentration decreased (70% reduction) with disease severity in men (p = 0.002) but increased 3.7-fold with severity in women (p = 0.043), suggesting a sex-related difference in how COVID-19 severity is related to sACE2 concentration. Moreover, we identified a relationship between inflammatory biomarkers and sACE2 concentration during the intensive care treatment, such that higher CRP and higher ferritin concentration correlated with lower sACE2 concentration in men. Conclusion The decrease in sACE2 concentration, selectively in men, in severe COVID-19 is of pathophysiological interest since men are affected more severely by the disease compared to women. Additionally, the inflammatory biomarkers, CRP and ferritin, correlated inversely with sACE2 concentration, suggesting a role in severe disease. Our findings imply that sACE2 is a possible biomarker of disease severity in a sex-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefina Robertson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden,Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden,*Correspondence: Josefina Robertson,
| | - Bengt Nellgård
- Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden,Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive care, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lillemor Mattsson Hultén
- Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden,Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Staffan Nilsson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Keti Dalla
- Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden,Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive care, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mats Börjesson
- Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden,Center for Health and Performance, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden,Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden,Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, University College London (UCL) Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom,United Kingdom Dementia Research Institute, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom,Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Joar Svanvik
- The Transplant Institute, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Magnus Gisslén
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden,Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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21
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Leowattana W, Leowattana T, Leowattana P. Circulating angiotensin converting enzyme 2 and COVID-19. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:12470-12483. [PMID: 36579082 PMCID: PMC9791519 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i34.12470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has triggered a widespread outbreak since December 2019. The SARS-CoV-2 infection-related illness has been dubbed the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by the World Health Organization. Asymptomatic and subclinical infections, a severe hyper-inflammatory state, and mortality are all examples of clinical signs. After attaching to the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, the SARS-CoV-2 virus can enter cells through membrane fusion and endocytosis. In addition to enabling viruses to cling to target cells, the connection between the spike protein (S-protein) of SARS-CoV-2 and ACE2 may potentially impair the functionality of ACE2. Blood pressure is controlled by ACE2, which catalyzes the hydrolysis of the active vasoconstrictor octapeptide angiotensin (Ang) II to the heptapeptide Ang-(1-7) and free L-Phe. Additionally, Ang I can be broken down by ACE2 into Ang-(1-9) and metabolized into Ang-(1-7). Numerous studies have demonstrated that circulating ACE2 (cACE2) and Ang-(1-7) have the ability to restore myocardial damage in a variety of cardiovascular diseases and have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-cardiomyocyte fibrosis actions. There have been some suggestions for raising ACE2 expression in COVID-19 patients, which might be used as a target for the creation of novel treatment therapies. With regard to this, SARS-CoV-2 is neutralized by soluble recombinant human ACE2 (hrsACE2), which binds the viral S-protein and reduces damage to a variety of organs, including the heart, kidneys, and lungs, by lowering Ang II concentrations and enhancing conversion to Ang-(1-7). This review aims to investigate how the presence of SARS-CoV-2 and cACE2 are related. Additionally, there will be discussion of a number of potential therapeutic approaches to tip the ACE/ACE-2 balance in favor of the ACE-2/Ang-(1-7) axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wattana Leowattana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tawithep Leowattana
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok 10110, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pathomthep Leowattana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Bangkok, Thailand
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22
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Devaux CA, Camoin-Jau L. An update on angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 structure/functions, polymorphism, and duplicitous nature in the pathophysiology of coronavirus disease 2019: Implications for vascular and coagulation disease associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus infection. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1042200. [PMID: 36519165 PMCID: PMC9742611 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1042200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been known for many years that the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a cell surface enzyme involved in the regulation of blood pressure. More recently, it was proven that the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) interacts with ACE2 to enter susceptible human cells. This functional duality of ACE2 tends to explain why this molecule plays such an important role in the clinical manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). At the very start of the pandemic, a publication from our Institute (entitled "ACE2 receptor polymorphism: susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2, hypertension, multi-organ failure, and COVID-19 disease outcome"), was one of the first reviews linking COVID-19 to the duplicitous nature of ACE2. However, even given that COVID-19 pathophysiology may be driven by an imbalance in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), we were still far from understanding the complexity of the mechanisms which are controlled by ACE2 in different cell types. To gain insight into the physiopathology of SARS-CoV-2 infection, it is essential to consider the polymorphism and expression levels of the ACE2 gene (including its alternative isoforms). Over the past 2 years, an impressive amount of new results have come to shed light on the role of ACE2 in the pathophysiology of COVID-19, requiring us to update our analysis. Genetic linkage studies have been reported that highlight a relationship between ACE2 genetic variants and the risk of developing hypertension. Currently, many research efforts are being undertaken to understand the links between ACE2 polymorphism and the severity of COVID-19. In this review, we update the state of knowledge on the polymorphism of ACE2 and its consequences on the susceptibility of individuals to SARS-CoV-2. We also discuss the link between the increase of angiotensin II levels among SARS-CoV-2-infected patients and the development of a cytokine storm associated microvascular injury and obstructive thrombo-inflammatory syndrome, which represent the primary causes of severe forms of COVID-19 and lethality. Finally, we summarize the therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing the severe forms of COVID-19 that target ACE2. Changing paradigms may help improve patients' therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian A. Devaux
- Aix-Marseille Université, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU–Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Center National de la Recherche Scientifique, Marseille, France
| | - Laurence Camoin-Jau
- Aix-Marseille Université, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU–Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Laboratoire d’Hématologie, Hôpital de La Timone, APHM, Boulevard Jean-Moulin, Marseille, France
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23
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Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 gains cell entry via angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) 2, a membrane-bound enzyme of the "alternative" (alt) renin-angiotensin system (RAS). ACE2 counteracts angiotensin II by converting it to potentially protective angiotensin 1-7. Using mass spectrometry, we assessed key metabolites of the classical RAS (angiotensins I-II) and alt-RAS (angiotensins 1-7 and 1-5) pathways as well as ACE and ACE2 concentrations in 159 patients hospitalized with COVID-19, stratified by disease severity (severe, n = 76; non-severe: n = 83). Plasma renin activity (PRA-S) was calculated as the sum of RAS metabolites. We estimated ACE activity using the angiotensin II:I ratio (ACE-S) and estimated systemic alt-RAS activation using the ratio of alt-RAS axis metabolites to PRA-S (ALT-S). We applied mixed linear models to assess how PRA-S and ACE/ACE2 concentrations affected ALT-S, ACE-S, and angiotensins II and 1-7. Median angiotensin I and II levels were higher with severe versus non-severe COVID-19 (angiotensin I: 86 versus 30 pmol/L, p < 0.01; angiotensin II: 114 versus 58 pmol/L, p < 0.05), demonstrating activation of classical RAS. The difference disappeared with analysis limited to patients not taking a RAS inhibitor (angiotensin I: 40 versus 31 pmol/L, p = 0.251; angiotensin II: 76 versus 99 pmol/L, p = 0.833). ALT-S in severe COVID-19 increased with time (days 1-6: 0.12; days 11-16: 0.22) and correlated with ACE2 concentration (r = 0.831). ACE-S was lower in severe versus non-severe COVID-19 (1.6 versus 2.6; p < 0.001), but ACE concentrations were similar between groups and correlated weakly with ACE-S (r = 0.232). ACE2 and ACE-S trajectories in severe COVID-19, however, did not differ between survivors and non-survivors. Overall RAS alteration in severe COVID-19 resembled severity of disease-matched patients with influenza. In mixed linear models, renin activity most strongly predicted angiotensin II and 1-7 levels. ACE2 also predicted angiotensin 1-7 levels and ALT-S. No single factor or the combined model, however, could fully explain ACE-S. ACE2 and ACE-S trajectories in severe COVID-19 did not differ between survivors and non-survivors. In conclusion, angiotensin II was elevated in severe COVID-19 but was markedly influenced by RAS inhibitors and driven by overall RAS activation. ACE-S was significantly lower with severe COVID-19 and did not correlate with ACE concentrations. A shift to the alt-RAS axis because of increased ACE2 could partially explain the relative reduction in angiotensin II levels.
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24
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Silva-Aguiar RP, Teixeira DE, Peres RAS, Peruchetti DB, Gomes CP, Schmaier AH, Rocco PRM, Pinheiro AAS, Caruso-Neves C. Subclinical Acute Kidney Injury in COVID-19: Possible Mechanisms and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214193. [PMID: 36430671 PMCID: PMC9693299 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the outbreak of COVID-19 disease, a bidirectional interaction between kidney disease and the progression of COVID-19 has been demonstrated. Kidney disease is an independent risk factor for mortality of patients with COVID-19 as well as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection leading to the development of acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with COVID-19. However, the detection of kidney damage in patients with COVID-19 may not occur until an advanced stage based on the current clinical blood and urinary examinations. Some studies have pointed out the development of subclinical acute kidney injury (subAKI) syndrome with COVID-19. This syndrome is characterized by significant tubule interstitial injury without changes in the estimated glomerular filtration rate. Despite the complexity of the mechanism(s) underlying the development of subAKI, the involvement of changes in the protein endocytosis machinery in proximal tubule (PT) epithelial cells (PTECs) has been proposed. This paper focuses on the data relating to subAKI and COVID-19 and the role of PTECs and their protein endocytosis machinery in its pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo P. Silva-Aguiar
- Carlos Chagas Filho Biophysics Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-617, Brazil
| | - Douglas E. Teixeira
- Carlos Chagas Filho Biophysics Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-617, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo A. S. Peres
- Carlos Chagas Filho Biophysics Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-617, Brazil
| | - Diogo B. Peruchetti
- Carlos Chagas Filho Biophysics Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-617, Brazil
| | - Carlos P. Gomes
- Clementino Fraga Filho University Hospital, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-617, Brazil
- School of Medicine and Surgery, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-617, Brazil
| | - Alvin H. Schmaier
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Patricia R. M. Rocco
- Carlos Chagas Filho Biophysics Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-617, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology for Regenerative Medicine, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro Innovation Network in Nanosystems for Health-NanoSAÚDE, Fundação Carlos Chagas Filho de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Rio de Janeiro 21045-900, Brazil
| | - Ana Acacia S. Pinheiro
- Carlos Chagas Filho Biophysics Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-617, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro Innovation Network in Nanosystems for Health-NanoSAÚDE, Fundação Carlos Chagas Filho de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Rio de Janeiro 21045-900, Brazil
| | - Celso Caruso-Neves
- Carlos Chagas Filho Biophysics Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-617, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology for Regenerative Medicine, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
- Rio de Janeiro Innovation Network in Nanosystems for Health-NanoSAÚDE, Fundação Carlos Chagas Filho de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Rio de Janeiro 21045-900, Brazil
- Correspondence:
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25
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Wissing SI, Obeid R, Rädle-Hurst T, Rohrer T, Herr C, Schöpe J, Geisel J, Bals R, Abdul-Khaliq H. Concentrations of Soluble Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (sACE2) in Children and Adults with and without COVID-19. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11226799. [PMID: 36431276 PMCID: PMC9698605 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11226799] [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: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), causing the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, leads to illness and death. Various risk factors for a severe course, such as higher age, male gender and pre-existing illnesses are known. However, pathophysiological risk factors are largely unclear. Notably, the mild course of disease in children is conspicuous. Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) serves as a receptor for SARS-CoV-2 and is a key enzyme in infection. Differences in the distribution of ACE2 can provide insights into different courses of COVID-19. Our aim was to elucidate the role of ACE2 as a pathophysiological risk factor by measuring soluble ACE2 (sACE2) via ELISA in blood samples (lithium-heparin-plasma or serum) of 367 individuals including children and adults with and without COVID-19. sACE2-levels were compared between the groups according to age and sex. In adults and children with COVID-19, sACE2-concentrations are significantly higher compared to healthy individuals. sACE2-levels increase with age and are lower in children compared to adults with COVID-19. Sex doesn't significantly influence sACE2-concentration. It remains unclear whether sACE2 concentrations increase because of the infection and what factors could influence this response. In conclusion, the increase of sACE2-concentration with age could indicate that ACE2 concentrations mirror increased COVID-19 severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Isabella Wissing
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Rima Obeid
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Tanja Rädle-Hurst
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Tilman Rohrer
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Christian Herr
- Department of Internal Medicine V–Pulmonology, Allergology and Critical Care Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Jakob Schöpe
- Institute for Medical Biometry, Epidemiology and Medical Informatics, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Geisel
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Robert Bals
- Department of Internal Medicine V–Pulmonology, Allergology and Critical Care Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
- Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Saarland University Campus, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Hashim Abdul-Khaliq
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-6841-1628306
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Mohammadi P, Varpaei HA, Seifi A, Zahak Miandoab S, Beiranvand S, Mobaraki S, Mohammadi M, Abdollahi A. Soluble ACE2 as a Risk or Prognostic Factor in COVID-19 Patients: A Cross-sectional Study. Med J Islam Repub Iran 2022; 36:135. [PMID: 36479537 PMCID: PMC9719580 DOI: 10.47176/mjiri.36.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus. The first known receptor for this virus in the human body is angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the same receptor for the SARS virus. Methods: A total of 38 hospitalized adult (18 years) patients with laboratory or clinically confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were identified in the infectious disease ward of Tehran Imam Khomeini hospital complex in this single-center cross-sectional study. A blood sample was taken at the time of hospitalization and a second one was taken 48 hours later. Blood samples are kept frozen at -80 degrees Celsius. After the complete collection of samples, the ACE2 level of the samples was measured using a serum sACE2 detection ELISA kit. The data were analyzed using SPSS v26. P value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. An analysis of covariance was performed to examine the mean differences in day 7 serum ACE2 concentration among the 2 groups after adjusting for the baseline serum ACE2 concentration. The 1-way multivariate analysis of variance was used to determine whether there were any differences between independent groups (mechanical ventilation yes/no) on serum ACE2 levels at 3 different times. Results: The mean age of patients was 64.13 ± 16.49 years, 21 patients (55.3%) were men, 16 patients (42%) were polymerase chain reaction test positive, and 15 patients (39.5%) died. A total of 35 individuals (92.1%) had chest computed tomography images that indicated lung involvement. A comparison of the 2 groups of patients who died and were discharged revealed that serum ACE2 at the first (p=0.033) and third (7th day) measurements were statistically different (p=0.026). Patients had a mean of serum ACE2. The results indicated that the day 7 serum ACE2 concentration did significantly differ between the 2 groups after controlling for the baseline serum ACE2 concentration (p=0.023). The model explained about 73.61% of the variance in the 7-day serum ACE2 concentration. Specifically, after adjusting for the baseline concentration, survived patients had the lowest level of serum ACE2 concentration (1 ± 0.65) on the 7th day compared with the deceased patient group (2.83 ± 1.12). Conclusion: Soluble ACE2 in the serum of COVID-19 patients who died, later on, was significantly higher than the discharged patients when the samples were taken seven days after admission. It is suggested that serum soluble ACE2 level could be used as a prognostic factor for COVID-19 patients' outcomes and also their need for mechanical ventilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parsa Mohammadi
- Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Arash Seifi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Zahak Miandoab
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saba Beiranvand
- Department of Nursing, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Mobaraki
- Department of Nursing, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Mohammadi
- Tehran University of Medical Sciences, General ICU of Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran, Iran, Corresponding author:Mostafa Mohammadi,
| | - Alireza Abdollahi
- Imam Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Wiegand M, Halsall DJ, Cowan SL, Taylor K, Goudie RJB, Preller J, Gurnell M. Unquantifiably low aldosterone concentrations are prevalent in hospitalised COVID-19 patients but may not be revealed by chemiluminescent immunoassay. Endocr Connect 2022; 11:e220190. [PMID: 36006845 PMCID: PMC9578067 DOI: 10.1530/ec-22-0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Objective Previous studies have reported conflicting findings regarding aldosterone levels in patients hospitalised with COVID-19. We therefore used the gold-standard technique of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LCMSMS) to address this uncertainty. Design All patients admitted to Cambridge University Hospitals with COVID-19 between 10 March 2020 and 13 May 2021, and in whom a stored blood sample was available for analysis, were eligible for inclusion. Methods Aldosterone was measured by LCMSMS and by immunoassay; cortisol and renin were determined by immunoassay. Results Using LCMSMS, aldosterone was below the limit of detection (<70 pmol/L) in 74 (58.7%) patients. Importantly, this finding was discordant with results obtained using a commonly employed clinical immunoassay (Diasorin LIAISON®), which over-estimated aldosterone compared to the LCMSMS assay (intercept 14.1 (95% CI -34.4 to 54.1) + slope 3.16 (95% CI 2.09-4.15) pmol/L). The magnitude of this discrepancy did not clearly correlate with markers of kidney or liver function. Solvent extraction prior to immunoassay improved the agreement between methods (intercept -14.9 (95% CI -31.9 to -4.3) and slope 1.0 (95% CI 0.89-1.02) pmol/L) suggesting the presence of a water-soluble metabolite causing interference in the direct immunoassay. We also replicated a previous finding that blood cortisol concentrations were often increased, with increased mortality in the group with serum cortisol levels > 744 nmol/L (P = 0.005). Conclusion When measured by LCMSMS, aldosterone was found to be profoundly low in a significant proportion of patients with COVID-19 at the time of hospital admission. This has likely not been detected previously due to high levels of interference with immunoassays in patients with COVID-19, and this merits further prospective investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Wiegand
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - David J Halsall
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sarah L Cowan
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Kevin Taylor
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Robert J B Goudie
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jacobus Preller
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Mark Gurnell
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
- Wellcome–MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, UK
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Fernandes RS, Netto MRT, Carvalho FB, Rigatto K. Alamandine: A promising treatment for fibrosis. Peptides 2022; 157:170848. [PMID: 35931236 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2022.170848] [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: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Angiotensin (Ang) II, the main active member of the renin angiotensin system (RAS), is essential for the maintenance of cardiovascular homeostasis. However, hyperactivation of the RAS causes fibrotic diseases. Ang II has pro-inflammatory actions, and moreover activates interstitial fibroblasts and/or dysregulates extracellular matrix degradation. The discovery of new RAS pathways has revealed the complexity of this system. Among the RAS peptides, alamandine (ALA, Ala1 Ang 1-7) has been identified in humans, rats, and mice, with protective actions in different pathological conditions. ALA has similar effects to its well-known congener, Ang-(1-7), as a vasodilator, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic. Its protective role against cardiovascular diseases is well-reviewed in the literature. However, the protective actions of ALA in fibrotic conditions have been little explored. Therefore, in this article, we review the ability of ALA to modulate the inflammatory process and collagen deposition, to serve as an antioxidant, and to mediate protection against functional disorders. In this scenario, we also explore ALA as a promising therapy for pulmonary fibrosis after COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Streck Fernandes
- Laboratório de Fisiologia Translacional, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Brazil; Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, UFCSPA, Brazil
| | | | | | - Katya Rigatto
- Laboratório de Fisiologia Translacional, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Brazil; Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, UFCSPA, Brazil.
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Lennol MP, García-Ayllón MS, Esteban M, García-Arriaza J, Sáez-Valero J. Serum angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 as a potential biomarker for SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccine efficacy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1001951. [PMID: 36311758 PMCID: PMC9597869 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1001951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Various species of the SARS-CoV-2 host cell receptor, the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), are present in serum, which may result from virus entry and subsequent proteolytic processing of the membrane receptor. We have recently demonstrated changes of particular ACE2 species in virus infected humans, either cleaved fragments or circulating full-length species. Here, we further explore the potential of serum ACE2 as a biomarker to test SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccine efficacy in virus susceptible transgenic K18-hACE2 mice expressing human ACE2. First, in serum samples derived from K18-hACE2 mice challenged with a lethal dose of SARS-CoV-2, we observed an increase in the levels of cleaved ACE2 fragment at day 2 post-challenge, which may represent the subsequent proteolytic processing through virus entry. These elevated levels were maintained until the death of the animals at day 6 post-challenge. The circulating full-length ACE2 form displayed a sizable peak at day 4, which declined at day 6 post-challenge. Noticeably, immunization with two doses of the MVA-CoV2-S vaccine candidate prevented ACE2 cleaved changes in serum of animals challenged with a lethal dose of SARS-CoV-2. The efficacy of the MVA-CoV2-S was extended to vaccinated mice after virus re-challenge. These findings highlight that ACE2 could be a potential serum biomarker for disease progression and vaccination against SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew P. Lennol
- Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Miguel Hernández, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), San Juan de Alicante, Spain
| | - María-Salud García-Ayllón
- Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Miguel Hernández, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunitat Valenciana (FISABIO), Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Elche, Spain
| | - Mariano Esteban
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan García-Arriaza
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Juan García-Arriaza, ; Javier Sáez-Valero,
| | - Javier Sáez-Valero
- Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Miguel Hernández, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), San Juan de Alicante, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
- *Correspondence: Juan García-Arriaza, ; Javier Sáez-Valero,
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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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Renin-Angiotensin System Pathway Therapeutics Associated With Improved Outcomes in Males Hospitalized With COVID-19. Crit Care Med 2022; 50:1306-1317. [PMID: 35607951 PMCID: PMC9380153 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000005589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) or angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are associated with improved outcomes in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 according to sex and to report sex-related differences in renin-angiotensin system (RAS) components. DESIGN Prospective observational cohort study comparing the effects of ARB or ACE inhibitors versus no ARBs or ACE inhibitors in males versus females. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 downregulates ACE-2, potentially increasing angiotensin II (a pro-inflammatory vasoconstrictor). Sex-based differences in RAS dysregulation may explain sex-based differences in responses to ARBs because the ACE2 gene is on the X chromosome. We recorded baseline characteristics, comorbidities, prehospital ARBs or ACE inhibitor treatment, use of organ support and mortality, and measured RAS components at admission and days 2, 4, 7, and 14 in a subgroup ( n = 46), recorded d -dimer ( n = 967), comparing males with females. SETTING ARBs CORONA I is a multicenter Canadian observational cohort of patients hospitalized with acute COVID-19. This analysis includes patients admitted to 10 large urban hospitals across the four most populated provinces. PATIENTS One-thousand six-hundred eighty-six patients with polymerase chain reaction-confirmed COVID-19 (February 2020 to March 2021) for acute COVID-19 illness were included. INTERVENTIONS None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Males on ARBs before admission had decreased use of ventilation (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.52; p = 0.007) and vasopressors (aOR = 0.55; p = 0.011) compared with males not on ARBs or ACE inhibitors. No significant effects were observed in females for these outcomes. The test for interaction was significant for use of ventilation ( p = 0.006) and vasopressors ( p = 0.044) indicating significantly different responses to ARBs according to sex. Males had significantly higher plasma ACE-1 at baseline and angiotensin II at day 7 and 14 than females. CONCLUSIONS ARBs use was associated with less ventilation and vasopressors in males but not females. Sex-based differences in RAS dysregulation may contribute to sex-based differences in outcomes and responses to ARBs in COVID-19.
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Abstract
The coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 infects host cells by binding to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, which belongs to an anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic counter-regulatory arm of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). ACE2 dysfunction and RAS dysregulation has been explored as a driving force in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), but data from COVID-19 patients has been inconsistent and inconclusive. We sought to identify disruptions of the classical (ACE)/angiotensin (Ang) II/Ang II type-1 receptor (AT1R) and the counter-regulatory ACE2/Ang 1-7/Mas Receptor (MasR) pathways in patients with COVID-19 and correlate these with severity of infection and markers of inflammation and coagulation. Ang II and Ang 1–7 levels in plasma were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for 230 patients, 166 of whom were SARS-CoV-2+. Ang 1–7 was repressed in COVID-19 patients compared to that in SARS-CoV-2 negative outpatient controls. Since the control cohort was less sick than the SARS-CoV-2+ group, this association between decreased Ang 1–7 and COVID-19 cannot be attributed to COVID-19 specifically as opposed to critical illness more generally. Multivariable logistic regression analyses demonstrated that every 10-pg/mL increase in plasma Ang 1–7 was associated with a 3% reduction in the odds of hospitalization (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.97, confidence interval [CI] 0.95 to 0.99) and a 3% reduction in odds of requiring oxygen supplementation (AOR 0.97, CI 0.95 to 0.99) and/or ventilation (AOR 0.97, CI 0.94 to 0.99). Ang 1–7 was also inversely associated with pro-inflammatory cytokines and d-dimer in this patient cohort, suggesting that reduced activity in this protective counter-regulatory arm of the RAS contributes to the hyper-immune response and diffuse coagulation activation documented in COVID-19. IMPORTANCE Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes a unique disease, COVID-19, which ranges in severity from asymptomatic to causing severe respiratory failure and death. Viral transmission throughout the world continues at a high rate despite the development and widespread use of effective vaccines. For those patients who contract COVID-19 and become severely ill, few therapeutic options have been shown to provide benefits and mortality rates are high. Additionally, the pathophysiology underlying COVID-19 disease presentation, progression, and severity is incompletely understood. The significance of our research is in confirming the role of renin-angiotensin system dysfunction in COVID-19 pathogenesis in a large cohort of patients with diverse disease severity and outcomes. Additionally, to our knowledge, this is the first study to pair angiotensin peptide levels with inflammatory and thrombotic markers. These data support the role of ongoing clinical trials examining renin-angiotensin system-targeted therapeutics for the treatment of COVID-19.
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Silva MG, Corradi GR, Pérez Duhalde JI, Nuñez M, Cela EM, Gonzales Maglio DH, Brizzio A, Salazar MR, Espeche WG, Gironacci MM. Plasmatic renin-angiotensin system in normotensive and hypertensive patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 152:113201. [PMID: 35661534 PMCID: PMC9135678 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Besides its counterbalancing role of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) 2 is the receptor for the type 2 coronavirus that causes severe acute respiratory syndrome, the etiological agent of COVID-19. COVID-19 is associated with increased plasmatic ACE2 levels, although conflicting results have been reported regarding angiotensin (Ang) II and Ang-(1−7) levels. We investigated plasmatic ACE2 protein levels and enzymatic activity and Ang II and Ang-(1−7) levels in normotensive and hypertensive patients hospitalized with COVID-19 compared to healthy subjects. Methods Ang II and Ang-(1−7), and ACE2 activity and protein levels were measured in 93 adults (58 % (n = 54) normotensive and 42 % (n = 39) hypertensive) hospitalized with COVID-19. Healthy, normotensive (n = 33) and hypertensive (n = 7) outpatient adults comprised the control group. Results COVID-19 patients displayed higher ACE2 enzymatic activity and protein levels than healthy subjects. Within the COVID-19 group, ACE2 activity and protein levels were not different between normotensive and hypertensive-treated patients, not even between COVID-19 hypertensive patients under RAS blockade treatment and those treated with other antihypertensive medications. Ang II and Ang-(1−7) levels significantly decreased in COVID-19 patients. When COVID-19 patients under RAS blockade treatment were excluded from the analysis, ACE2 activity and protein levels remained higher and Ang II and Ang-(1−7) levels lower in COVID-19 patients compared to healthy people. Conclusions Our results support the involvement of RAS in COVID-19, even when patients under RAS blockade treatment were excluded. The increased circulating ACE2 suggest higher ACE2 expression and shedding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro G Silva
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Dpto. Química Biológica, IQUIFIB (UBA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gerardo R Corradi
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Dpto. Química Biológica, IQUIFIB (UBA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan I Pérez Duhalde
- Unidad de Enfermedades Cardiometabólicas, Hospital San Martín de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Myriam Nuñez
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Cátedra de Matemáticas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Eliana M Cela
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Cátedra de Inmunología-IDEHU, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniel H Gonzales Maglio
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Cátedra de Inmunología-IDEHU, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana Brizzio
- Unidad de Enfermedades Cardiometabólicas, Hospital San Martín de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Martin R Salazar
- Unidad de Enfermedades Cardiometabólicas, Hospital San Martín de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Walter G Espeche
- Unidad de Enfermedades Cardiometabólicas, Hospital San Martín de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Mariela M Gironacci
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Dpto. Química Biológica, IQUIFIB (UBA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Norambuena-Soto I, Lopez-Crisosto C, Martinez-Bilbao J, Hernandez-Fuentes C, Parra V, Lavandero S, Chiong M. Angiotensin-(1-9) in hypertension. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 203:115183. [PMID: 35870482 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-(1-9) [Ang-(1-9)] is a peptide of the non-canonical renin-angiotensin system (RAS) synthesized from angiotensin I by the monopeptidase angiotensin-converting enzyme type 2 (ACE2). Using osmotic minipumps, infusion of Ang-(1-9) consistently reduces blood pressure in several rat hypertension models. In these animals, hypertension-induced end-organ damage is also decreased. Several pieces of evidence suggest that Ang-(1-9) is the endogenous ligand that binds and activates the type-2 angiotensin II receptor (AT2R). Activation of AT2R triggers different tissue-specific signaling pathways. This phenomenon could be explained by the ability of AT2R to form different heterodimers with other G protein-coupled receptors. Because of the antihypertensive and protective effects of AT2R activation by Ang-(1-9), associated with a short half-life of RAS peptides, several synthetic AT2R agonists have been synthesized and assayed. Some of them, particularly CGP42112, C21 and novokinin, have demonstrated antihypertensive properties. Only two synthetic AT2R agonists, C21 and LP2-3, have been tested in clinical trials, but none of them like an antihypertensive. Therefore, Ang-(1-9) is a promising antihypertensive drug that reduces hypertension-induced end-organ damage. However, further research is required to translate this finding successfully to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Norambuena-Soto
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Camila Lopez-Crisosto
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Javiera Martinez-Bilbao
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carolina Hernandez-Fuentes
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Valentina Parra
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile; Network for the Study of High-lethality Cardiopulmonary Diseases (REECPAL), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sergio Lavandero
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile; Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Mario Chiong
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.
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Camargo RL, Bombassaro B, Monfort-Pires M, Mansour E, Palma AC, Ribeiro LC, Ulaf RG, Bernardes AF, Nunes TA, Agrela MV, Dertkigil RP, Dertkigil SS, Araujo EP, Nadruz W, Moretti ML, Velloso LA, Sposito AC. Plasma Angiotensin II Is Increased in Critical Coronavirus Disease 2019. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:847809. [PMID: 35811697 PMCID: PMC9263116 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.847809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) employs angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as its receptor for cell entrance, and studies have suggested that upon viral binding, ACE2 catalytic activity could be inhibited; therefore, impacting the regulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). To date, only few studies have evaluated the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the blood levels of the components of the RAAS. The objective of this study was to determine the blood levels of ACE, ACE2, angiotensin-II, angiotensin (1-7), and angiotensin (1-9) at hospital admission and discharge in a group of patients presenting with severe or critical evolution of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We showed that ACE, ACE2, angiotensin (1-7), and angiotensin (1-9) were similar in patients with critical and severe COVID-19. However, at admission, angiotensin-II levels were significantly higher in patients presenting as critical, compared to patients presenting with severe COVID-19. We conclude that blood levels of angiotensin-II are increased in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 presenting the critical outcome of the disease. We propose that early measurement of Ang-II could be a useful biomarker for identifying patients at higher risk for extremely severe progression of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael L Camargo
- Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Bruna Bombassaro
- Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Milena Monfort-Pires
- Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Eli Mansour
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Andre C Palma
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Luciana C Ribeiro
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Raisa G Ulaf
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Ana Flavia Bernardes
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Thyago A Nunes
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Marcus V Agrela
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Rachel P Dertkigil
- Department of Radiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Sergio S Dertkigil
- Department of Radiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Eliana P Araujo
- Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil.,School of Nursing, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Wilson Nadruz
- Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Maria Luiza Moretti
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Licio A Velloso
- Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Andrei C Sposito
- Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
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Gorog DA, Storey RF, Gurbel PA, Tantry US, Berger JS, Chan MY, Duerschmied D, Smyth SS, Parker WAE, Ajjan RA, Vilahur G, Badimon L, Berg JMT, Cate HT, Peyvandi F, Wang TT, Becker RC. Current and novel biomarkers of thrombotic risk in COVID-19: a Consensus Statement from the International COVID-19 Thrombosis Biomarkers Colloquium. Nat Rev Cardiol 2022; 19:475-495. [PMID: 35027697 PMCID: PMC8757397 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-021-00665-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 82.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) predisposes patients to thrombotic and thromboembolic events, owing to excessive inflammation, endothelial cell activation and injury, platelet activation and hypercoagulability. Patients with COVID-19 have a prothrombotic or thrombophilic state, with elevations in the levels of several biomarkers of thrombosis, which are associated with disease severity and prognosis. Although some biomarkers of COVID-19-associated coagulopathy, including high levels of fibrinogen and D-dimer, were recognized early during the pandemic, many new biomarkers of thrombotic risk in COVID-19 have emerged. In this Consensus Statement, we delineate the thrombotic signature of COVID-19 and present the latest biomarkers and platforms to assess the risk of thrombosis in these patients, including markers of platelet activation, platelet aggregation, endothelial cell activation or injury, coagulation and fibrinolysis as well as biomarkers of the newly recognized post-vaccine thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome. We then make consensus recommendations for the clinical use of these biomarkers to inform prognosis, assess disease acuity, and predict thrombotic risk and in-hospital mortality. A thorough understanding of these biomarkers might aid risk stratification and prognostication, guide interventions and provide a platform for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana A Gorog
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, UK.
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.
| | - Robert F Storey
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, Department of Infection, Immunity & Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Paul A Gurbel
- Sinai Center for Thrombosis Research and Drug Development, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Udaya S Tantry
- Sinai Center for Thrombosis Research and Drug Development, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Berger
- New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mark Y Chan
- Yong Loo-Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- National University Heart Centre, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Daniel Duerschmied
- Cardiology and Angiology I and Medical Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Cardiology, Medical Intensive Care, Angiology and Haemostaseology, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Susan S Smyth
- UAMS College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - William A E Parker
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, Department of Infection, Immunity & Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Ramzi A Ajjan
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Gemma Vilahur
- Cardiovascular Research Center-ICCC, Research Institute - Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
- CiberCV, Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lina Badimon
- Cardiovascular Research Center-ICCC, Research Institute - Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
- CiberCV, Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Hugo Ten Cate
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM) and Thrombosis Expertise Center, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Center for Thrombosis and Haemostasis, University Medical Center of Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Flora Peyvandi
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Angelo Bianchi Bonomi Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, Milan, Italy
- Università degli Studi di Milano, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Milan, Italy
| | - Taia T Wang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Richard C Becker
- Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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Mariappan V, Ranganadin P, Shanmugam L, Rao SR, Balakrishna Pillai A. Early shedding of membrane-bounded ACE2 could be an indicator for disease severity in SARS-CoV-2. Biochimie 2022; 201:139-147. [PMID: 35724946 PMCID: PMC9212747 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 uses membrane bound Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) as a key host receptor for its entry. However, inconsistent results are available in terms of shedding of membrane ACE2 and circulating levels of soluble ACE2 during SARS-CoV-2. To ascertain soluble ACE2 as an effective biomarker for the prediction of COVID-19 outcome, in the present study, we investigated the levels of plasma ACE2 during the early phase of infection in COVID-19 patients. The study involved a total of 42 COVID-19 patients along with 10 healthy controls. Plasma levels of ACE2 was determined using ELISA at the time of admission and on day 7 post admission. The association of sACE2 with D-dimer a marker for hyper-coagulation was performed using a dependence test. Compared to healthy controls, SARS-CoV-2 cases has shown a huge increase in the sACE2 at the time of admission. During the course of infection, we found a significant increase (P ≤ 0.001) in sACE2 in severe cases compared to moderate. There was a strong increase in sACE2 in cases with hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Interestingly, a strong positive correlation (P ≤ 0.001) was obtained between sACE2 and D-dimer. Thus, an excessive shedding of ACE2 during the early phase is a common phenomenon in severe form of the SARS-CoV-2. Along with D-dimer, the sACE2 levels could serve as a clinical biomarker for the prediction of disease outcome. However further studies are needed to ascertain its role in host-virus interplay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vignesh Mariappan
- Central Inter-Disciplinary Research Facility (CIDRF), MGM Advanced Research Institute (MGMARI), Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Puducherry, 607 402, India.
| | - Pajanivel Ranganadin
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute (MGMCRI), Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Puducherry, 607 402, India.
| | - Lokesh Shanmugam
- ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology (ICMR-NIE), Ayapakkam, Chennai, 600 070, India; Department of General Medicine, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute (MGMCRI), Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Puducherry, 607 402, India.
| | - S R Rao
- Research, Innovation and Development, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Puducherry, 607 402, India.
| | - Agieshkumar Balakrishna Pillai
- Central Inter-Disciplinary Research Facility (CIDRF), MGM Advanced Research Institute (MGMARI), Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Puducherry, 607 402, India.
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Savedchuk S, Raslan R, Nystrom S, Sparks MA. Emerging Viral Infections and the Potential Impact on Hypertension, Cardiovascular Disease, and Kidney Disease. Circ Res 2022; 130:1618-1641. [PMID: 35549373 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.122.320873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Viruses are ubiquitous in the environment and continue to have a profound impact on human health and disease. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted this with impressive morbidity and mortality affecting the world's population. Importantly, the link between viruses and hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease has resulted in a renewed focus and attention on this potential relationship. The virus responsible for COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, has a direct link to one of the major enzymatic regulatory systems connected to blood pressure control and hypertension pathogenesis, the renin-angiotensin system. This is because the entry point for SARS-CoV-2 is the ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) protein. ACE2 is one of the main enzymes responsible for dampening the primary effector peptide Ang II (angiotensin II), metabolizing it to Ang-(1-7). A myriad of clinical questions has since emerged and are covered in this review. Several other viruses have been linked to hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and kidney health. Importantly, patients with high-risk apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1) alleles are at risk for developing the kidney lesion of collapsing glomerulopathy after viral infection. This review will highlight several emerging viruses and their potential unique tropisms for the kidney and cardiovascular system. We focus on SARS-CoV-2 as this body of literature in regards to cardiovascular disease has advanced significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomiia Savedchuk
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC (S.S., S.N., M.A.S.)
| | - Rasha Raslan
- Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (R.R.)
| | - Sarah Nystrom
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC (S.S., S.N., M.A.S.)
| | - Matthew A Sparks
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC (S.S., S.N., M.A.S.)
- Renal Section, Durham VA Health Care System, NC (M.A.S.)
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39
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Kassif Lerner R, Stein Yeshurun M, Hemi R, Zada N, Asraf K, Doolman R, Benoit SW, Santos de Oliveira MH, Lippi G, Henry BM, Pessach IM, Pode Shakked N. The Predictive Value of Serum ACE2 and TMPRSS2 Concentrations in Patients with COVID-19-A Prospective Pilot Study. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12040622. [PMID: 35455738 PMCID: PMC9032089 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12040622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the major challenges for healthcare systems during the Coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was the inability to successfully predict which patients would require mechanical ventilation (MV). Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) and TransMembrane Protease Serine S1 member 2 (TMPRSS2) are enzymes that play crucial roles in SARS-CoV-2 entry into human host cells. However, their predictive value as biomarkers for risk stratification for respiratory deterioration requiring MV has not yet been evaluated. We aimed to evaluate whether serum ACE2 and TMPRSS2 levels are associated with adverse outcomes in COVID-19, and specifically the need for MV. COVID-19 patients admitted to an Israeli tertiary medical center between March--November 2020, were included. Serum samples were obtained shortly after admission (day 0) and again following one week of admission (day 7). ACE2 and TMPRSS2 concentrations were measured with ELISA. Of 72 patients included, 30 (41.6%) ultimately required MV. Serum ACE2 concentrations >7.8 ng/mL at admission were significantly associated with the need for MV (p = 0.036), inotropic support, and renal replacement therapy. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, elevated ACE2 at admission was associated with the need for MV (OR = 7.49; p = 0.014). To conclude, elevated serum ACE2 concentration early in COVID-19 illness correlates with respiratory failure necessitating mechanical ventilation. We suggest that measuring serum ACE2 at admission may be useful for predicting the risk of severe disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reut Kassif Lerner
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care, The Edmond and Lily Safra Children’s Hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel; (R.K.L.); (I.M.P.)
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel; (M.S.Y.); (R.H.); (R.D.)
| | - Michal Stein Yeshurun
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel; (M.S.Y.); (R.H.); (R.D.)
- Department of Pediatrics, The Edmond and Lily Safra Children’s Hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel
| | - Rina Hemi
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel; (M.S.Y.); (R.H.); (R.D.)
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel;
| | - Nahid Zada
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel;
| | - Keren Asraf
- The Dworman Automated-Mega Laboratory, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel;
| | - Ram Doolman
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel; (M.S.Y.); (R.H.); (R.D.)
- The Dworman Automated-Mega Laboratory, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel;
| | - Stefanie W. Benoit
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology and Hypertension, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; (S.W.B.); (B.M.H.)
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | | | - Giuseppe Lippi
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Brandon Michael Henry
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology and Hypertension, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; (S.W.B.); (B.M.H.)
| | - Itai M. Pessach
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care, The Edmond and Lily Safra Children’s Hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel; (R.K.L.); (I.M.P.)
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel; (M.S.Y.); (R.H.); (R.D.)
| | - Naomi Pode Shakked
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel; (M.S.Y.); (R.H.); (R.D.)
- Department of Pediatrics, The Edmond and Lily Safra Children’s Hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology and Hypertension, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; (S.W.B.); (B.M.H.)
- Correspondence:
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Taglauer ES, Wachman EM, Juttukonda L, Klouda T, Kim J, Wang Q, Ishiyama A, Hackam DJ, Yuan K, Jia H. Acute Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection in Pregnancy Is Associated with Placental Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 Shedding. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2022; 192:595-603. [PMID: 35090860 PMCID: PMC8789383 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2021.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
While the human placenta may be infected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the rate of fetal transmission is low, suggesting a barrier at the maternal-fetal interface. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)2, the main receptor for SARS-CoV-2, is regulated by a metalloprotease cleavage enzyme, a disintegrin and metalloprotease domain 17 (ADAM17). ACE2 is expressed in the human placenta, but its regulation in relation to maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy is not well understood. This study evaluated ACE2 expression, ADAM17 activity, and serum ACE2 abundance in a cohort of matched villous placental and maternal serum samples from control pregnancies (SARS-CoV-2 negative, n = 8) and pregnancies affected by symptomatic maternal SARS-CoV-2 infections in the second trimester [2nd Tri coronavirus disease (COVID), n = 8] and third trimester (3rd Tri COVID, n = 8). In 3rd Tri COVID compared with control and 2nd Tri COVID villous placental tissues, ACE2 mRNA expression was remarkably elevated; however, ACE2 protein expression was significantly decreased with a parallel increase in ADAM17 activity. Soluble ACE2 was also significantly increased in the maternal serum from 3rd Tri COVID infections compared with control and 2nd Tri COVID pregnancies. These data suggest that in acute maternal SARS-CoV-2 infections, decreased placental ACE2 protein may be the result of ACE2 shedding and highlights the importance of ACE2 for studies on SARS-CoV-2 responses at the maternal-fetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elisha M Wachman
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lillian Juttukonda
- Boston Combined Residency Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston Massachusetts
| | - Timothy Klouda
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston Massachusetts
| | - Jiwon Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston Massachusetts
| | - Qiong Wang
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Asuka Ishiyama
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - David J Hackam
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ke Yuan
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston Massachusetts
| | - Hongpeng Jia
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
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Cook JR, Ausiello J. Functional ACE2 deficiency leading to angiotensin imbalance in the pathophysiology of COVID-19. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2022; 23:151-170. [PMID: 34195965 PMCID: PMC8245275 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-021-09663-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, uses angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as its primary cell-surface receptor. ACE2 is a key enzyme in the counter-regulatory pathway of the broader renin-angiotensin system (RAS) that has been implicated in a broad array of human pathology. The RAS is composed of two competing pathways that work in opposition to each other: the "conventional" arm involving angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) generating angiotensin-2 and the more recently identified ACE2 pathway that generates angiotensin (1-7). Following the original SARS pandemic, additional studies suggested that coronaviral binding to ACE2 resulted in downregulation of the membrane-bound enzyme. Given the similarities between the two viruses, many have posited a similar process with SARS-CoV-2. Proponents of this ACE2 deficiency model argue that downregulation of ACE2 limits its enzymatic function, thereby skewing the delicate balance between the two competing arms of the RAS. In this review we critically examine this model. The available data remain incomplete but are consistent with the possibility that the broad multisystem dysfunction of COVID-19 is due in large part to functional ACE2 deficiency leading to angiotensin imbalance with consequent immune dysregulation and endothelial cell dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua R Cook
- New York-Presbyterian Hospital and the Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - John Ausiello
- New York-Presbyterian Hospital and the Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
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Quarleri J, Delpino MV. SARS-CoV-2 interacts with renin-angiotensin system: impact on the central nervous system in elderly patients. GeroScience 2022; 44:547-565. [PMID: 35157210 PMCID: PMC8853071 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-022-00528-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a recently identified coronavirus that causes the current pandemic disease known as COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 uses angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as a receptor, suggesting that the initial steps of SARS-CoV-2 infection may have an impact on the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Several processes are influenced by RAS in the brain. The neurological symptoms observed in COVID-19 patients, including reduced olfaction, meningitis, ischemic stroke, cerebral thrombosis, and delirium, could be associated with RAS imbalance. In this review, we focus on the potential role of disturbances in the RAS as a cause for central nervous system sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection in elderly patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Quarleri
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus Y Sida (INBIRS), Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Paraguay 2155-Piso 11 (1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - M Victoria Delpino
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus Y Sida (INBIRS), Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Paraguay 2155-Piso 11 (1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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43
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Maza MDC, Úbeda M, Delgado P, Horndler L, Llamas MA, van Santen HM, Alarcón B, Abia D, García-Bermejo L, Serrano-Villar S, Bastolla U, Fresno M. ACE2 Serum Levels as Predictor of Infectability and Outcome in COVID-19. Front Immunol 2022; 13:836516. [PMID: 35401548 PMCID: PMC8986157 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.836516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 can generate a broad spectrum of severity and symptoms. Many studies analysed the determinants of severity but not among some types of symptoms. More importantly, very few studies analysed patients highly exposed to the virus that nonetheless remain uninfected. Methods We analysed serum levels of ACE2, Angiotensin II and anti-Spike antibodies in 2 different cohorts at high risk of viral exposure, highly exposed but uninfected subjects, either high risk health care workers or persons cohabiting with infected close relatives and seropositive patients with symptoms. We tested the ability of the sera of these subjects to neutralize lentivirus pseudotyped with the Spike-protein. Results We found that the serum levels of ACE2 are significantly higher in highly exposed but uninfected subjects. Moreover, sera from this seronegative persons can neutralize SARS-CoV-2 infection in cellular assays more strongly that sera from non-exposed negative controls eventhough they do not have anti-CoV-2 IgG antibodies suggesting that high levels of ACE2 in serum may somewhat protect against an active infection without generating a conventional antibody response. Finally, we show that among patients with symptoms, ACE2 levels were significantly higher in infected patients who developed cutaneous as compared with respiratory symptoms and ACE2 was also higher in those with milder symptoms. Conclusions These findings suggest that soluble ACE2 could be used as a potential biomarker to predict SARS-CoV-2 infection risk and to discriminate COVID-19 disease subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- María del Carmen Maza
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Úbeda
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Sanitario Princesa, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Delgado
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lydia Horndler
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel A. Llamas
- EMPIREO Diagnóstico Molecular Sociedad Limitada (SL), Madrid, Spain
| | - Hisse M. van Santen
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Balbino Alarcón
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Abia
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura García-Bermejo
- Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Serrano-Villar
- Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ugo Bastolla
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Fresno
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Sanitario Princesa, Madrid, Spain
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Brooks SD, Smith RL, Moreira AS, Ackerman HC. Oral Lisinopril Raises Tissue Levels of ACE2, the SARS-CoV-2 Receptor, in Healthy Male and Female Mice. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:798349. [PMID: 35359831 PMCID: PMC8961328 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.798349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is the established cellular receptor for SARS-CoV-2. However, it is unclear whether ACE1 inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril) or angiotensin receptor blockers (e.g., losartan) alter tissue ACE2 expression. This study sought to determine whether lisinopril or losartan, as monotherapies or in combination, changes tissue levels of ACE2 in healthy male and female mice. Mice received lisinopril (10 mg/kg/day), losartan (10 mg/kg/day), or both for 21 days via drinking water. A control group received water without drug. The ACE2 protein index (ACE2 protein/total protein) was determined on the small intestine, lung, kidney, and brain. Oral lisinopril increased the ACE2 protein index across all tissues (p < 0.0001 vs. control). In contrast, the combination of lisinopril plus losartan did not increase ACE2 levels in any tissue (p = 0.89 vs. control) and even decreased tissue expression of the Ace2 gene (p < 0.001 vs. control). Tissue ACE2 remained elevated in the mice 21 days after cessation of lisinopril (p = 0.02). Plasma ACE2 did not correlate with the ACE2 protein index in any tissue. A sex difference was observed: kidney ACE2 levels were higher in male than in female mice (p < 0.0001). Oral lisinopril increases ACE2, the cellular receptor for SARS-CoV-2, in tissues that are relevant to the transmission and pathogenesis of COVID-19. Remarkably, the addition of losartan prevented lisinopril-induced increases in ACE2 across tissues. These results suggest that ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers interact to determine tissue levels of ACE2.
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Decreased serum levels of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE)2 and enhanced cytokine levels with severity of COVID-19: normalisation upon disease recovery. Heliyon 2022; 8:e08957. [PMID: 35187271 PMCID: PMC8847112 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e08957] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Circulating soluble angiotensin-converting enzyme (sACE2)2, the main receptor for SARS-CoV-2, together with components of the renin-angiotensin system promote infection and disease severity. Objective This pilot study followed the time-course of sACE2 levels in relation to systemic cytokines in severe and moderate COVID-19 patients treated with remdesivir/dexamethasone in combination. Methods Peripheral blood was obtained upon admission from 30 patients (12 with moderate disease and 18 with severe disease) and 14 patients with PCR-confirmed mild COVID-19. Severe and moderate patients were treated with remdesivir (200mg/first day and 100mg/day for the remaining days) and dexamethasone (100mg/day). 6 healthy control subjects (HC) were also enrolled. Serum interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 and sACE2 levels were measured by ELISA at baseline and during treatment in severe and moderate patients and at baseline in mild and HCs. Results Baseline sACE2 levels were lower in severe (p = 0.0005) and moderate (p = 0.0022) patients than in patients with mild COVID-19 and in HC (p = 0.0023 and p = 0.0012 respectively). Treatment significantly increased sACE2 levels in patients with moderate disease (p = 0.0156) but only 50% of patients with severe disease showed enhanced levels compared to baseline. Systemic IL-6 and IL-8 levels were higher in all patient groups compared with HC and were not significantly affected over time or by remdesivir/dexamethasone treatment for 5 days. Conclusion Serum sACE2 levels increase in severe COVID-19 patients as they recover over time whilst circulating cytokines are unaffected. Future studies should link these results to clinical outcomes.
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Yavropoulou MP, Filippa MG, Mantzou A, Ntziora F, Mylona M, Tektonidou MG, Vlachogiannis NI, Paraskevis D, Kaltsas GA, Chrousos GP, Sfikakis PP. Alterations in cortisol and interleukin-6 secretion in patients with COVID-19 suggestive of neuroendocrine-immune adaptations. Endocrine 2022; 75:317-327. [PMID: 35043384 PMCID: PMC8765492 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-021-02968-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The beneficial effect of glucocorticoids in coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is established, but whether adrenal cortisol secretion is impaired in COVID-19 is not fully elucidated. In this case-control study, we investigated the diurnal free bioavailable salivary cortisol secretion in COVID-19 patients. METHODS Fifty-two consecutive COVID-19 patients-before dexamethasone treatment in cases required-recruited between April 15 to June 15, 2021, (NCT04988269) at Laikon Athens University-Hospital, and 33 healthy age- and sex-matched controls were included. Diurnal salivary cortisol (8 a.m., 12, 6, and 10 p.m.), plasma adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and aldosterone, and serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were assessed. Diurnal salivary dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and IL-6 were also assessed in subgroups of patients. RESULTS Median CRP and IL-6 measurements were about sixfold higher in patients than controls (both p < 0.001) Morning salivary cortisol levels did not differ between the two groups, but patients exhibited higher median levels of evening and nocturnal salivary cortisol compared to controls [0.391 (0.054, 0663) vs. 0.081 (0.054, 0.243) μg/dl, p < 0.001 and 0.183 (0.090, 0.834) vs. 0.054 (0.054, 0.332) μg/dl, p < 0.001, respectively], resulting in higher time-integrated area under the curve (AUC) (4.81 ± 2.46 vs. 2.75 ± 0.810, respectively, p < 0.001). Circulating ACTH, DHEA, and aldosterone levels were similar in patients and controls. Serum IL-6, but not ACTH levels, was strongly correlated with nocturnal cortisol salivary levels (ρ = 0.555, p < 0.001) in patients. CONCLUSIONS Increased evening and nocturnal but not morning cortisol secretion may occur in even clinically mild COVID-19. In the context of acute viral infection (COVID-19), IL-6 may partially replace ACTH as a stimulus of the glucocorticoid-secreting adrenal zona-fasciculata without influencing the secretion of DHEA and aldosterone. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04988269?term=yavropoulou&draw=2&rank=3 (NCT04988269).
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria P Yavropoulou
- 1st Department of Propaedeutic and Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece.
| | - Maria G Filippa
- 1st Department of Propaedeutic and Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Aimilia Mantzou
- University Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health and Precision Medicine Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Fotinie Ntziora
- 1st Department of Propaedeutic and Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Mylona
- 1st Department of Propaedeutic and Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria G Tektonidou
- 1st Department of Propaedeutic and Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos I Vlachogiannis
- 1st Department of Propaedeutic and Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Paraskevis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Gregory A Kaltsas
- 1st Department of Propaedeutic and Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - George P Chrousos
- University Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health and Precision Medicine and UNESCO Chair on Adolescent Health Care, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Petros P Sfikakis
- 1st Department of Propaedeutic and Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
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Xu C, Chen Y, Yu J. Foe and friend in the COVID-19-associated acute kidney injury: an insight on intrarenal renin-angiotensin system. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2022; 54:1-11. [PMID: 35130610 PMCID: PMC9828085 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2021002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the first reported case in December of 2019, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has became an international public health emergency. So far, there are more than 228,206,384 confirmed cases including 4,687,066 deaths. Kidney with high expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is one of the extrapulmonary target organs affected in patients with COVID-19. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the independent risk factors for the death of COVID-19 patients. The imbalance between ACE2-Ang(1-7)-MasR and ACE-Ang II-AT1R axis in the kidney may contribute to COVID-19-associated AKI. Although series of research have shown the inconsistent effects of multiple common RAS inhibitors on ACE2 expression and enzyme activity, most of the retrospective cohort studies indicated the safety and protective effects of ACEI/ARB in COVID-19 patients. This review article highlights the current knowledge on the possible involvement of intrarenal RAS in COVID-19-associated AKI with a primary focus on the opposing effects of ACE2-Ang(1-7)-MasR and ACE-Ang II-AT1R signaling in the kidney. Human recombinant soluble ACE2 or ACE2 variants with preserved ACE2-enzymatic activity may be the best options to improve COVID-19-associated AKI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanming Xu
- Translational Medicine CentreJiangxi University of Chinese MedicineNanchang330002China
| | - Yanting Chen
- Institute of HypertensionSun Yat-sen University School of MedicineGuangzhou510080China
| | - Jun Yu
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research and Department of PhysiologyLewis Katz School of MedicineTemple UniversityPhiladelphiaPA19140USA
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Amezcua-Guerra LM, Del Valle L, González-Pacheco H, Springall R, Márquez-Velasco R, Massó F, Brianza-Padilla M, Manzur-Sandoval D, González-Flores J, García-Ávila C, Juárez-Vicuña Y, Sánchez-Muñoz F, Ballinas-Verdugo MA, Basilio-Gálvez E, Paez-Arenas A, Castillo-Salazar M, Cásares-Alvarado S, Hernández-Diazcouder A, Sánchez-Gloria JL, Tavera-Alonso C, Gopar-Nieto R, Sandoval J. The prognostic importance of the angiotensin II/angiotensin-(1-7) ratio in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Ther Adv Respir Dis 2022; 16:17534666221122544. [PMID: 36082632 PMCID: PMC9465579 DOI: 10.1177/17534666221122544] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Information about angiotensin II (Ang II), angiotensin-converting enzyme 2
(ACE2), and Ang-(1–7) levels in patients with COVID-19 is scarce. Objective: To characterize the Ang II–ACE2–Ang-(1–7) axis in patients with SARS-CoV-2
infection to understand its role in pathogenesis and prognosis. Methods: Patients greater than 18 years diagnosed with COVID-19, based on clinical
findings and positive RT-PCR test, who required hospitalization and
treatment were included. We compared Ang II, aldosterone, Ang-(1–7), and
Ang-(1–9) concentrations and ACE2 concentration and activity between
COVID-19 patients and historic controls. We compared baseline demographics,
laboratory results (enzyme, peptide, and inflammatory marker levels), and
outcome (patients who survived versus those who died). Results: Serum from 74 patients [age: 58 (48–67.2) years; 68% men] with moderate (20%)
or severe (80%) COVID-19 were analyzed. During 13 (10–21) days of
hospitalization, 25 patients died from COVID-19 and 49 patients survived.
Compared with controls, Ang II concentration was higher and Ang-(1–7)
concentration was lower, despite significantly higher ACE2 activity in
patients. Ang II concentration was higher and Ang-(1–7) concentration was
lower in patients who died. The Ang II/Ang-(1–7) ratio was significantly
higher in patients who died. In multivariate analysis, Ang II/Ang-(1–7)
ratio greater than 3.45 (OR = 5.87) and lymphocyte count
⩽0.65 × 103/µl (OR = 8.43) were independent predictors of
mortality from COVID-19. Conclusion: In patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection, imbalance in the Ang
II–ACE2–Ang-(1–7) axis may reflect deleterious effects of Ang II and may
indicate a worse outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis M Amezcua-Guerra
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Leonardo Del Valle
- Pharmacology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Rashidi Springall
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Felipe Massó
- Translational Medicine Lab UNAM-INC Unit, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Daniel Manzur-Sandoval
- Intensive Care Unit, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Carlos García-Ávila
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Yaneli Juárez-Vicuña
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Fausto Sánchez-Muñoz
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Edna Basilio-Gálvez
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Araceli Paez-Arenas
- Translational Medicine Lab UNAM-INC Unit, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - José L Sánchez-Gloria
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Rodrigo Gopar-Nieto
- Coronary Care Unit, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Julio Sandoval
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Juan Badiano # 1, Colonia Sección XVI Tlalpan, México City 14080, México
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Tamanna S, Lumbers ER, Morosin SK, Delforce SJ, Pringle KG. ACE2: a key modulator of the renin-angiotensin system and pregnancy. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2021; 321:R833-R843. [PMID: 34668428 PMCID: PMC8862784 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00211.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a membrane-bound protein containing 805 amino acids. ACE2 shows approximately 42% sequence similarity to somatic ACE but has different biochemical activities. The key role of ACE2 is to catalyze the vasoconstrictor peptide angiotensin (ANG) II to Ang-(1–7), thus regulating the two major counterbalancing pathways of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). In this way, ACE2 plays a protective role in end-organ damage by protecting tissues from the proinflammatory actions of ANG II. The circulating RAS is activated in normal pregnancy and is essential for maintaining fluid and electrolyte homeostasis and blood pressure. Renin-angiotensin systems are also found in the conceptus. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the regulation and function of circulating and uteroplacental ACE2 in uncomplicated and complicated pregnancies, including those affected by preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. Since ACE2 is the receptor for SARS-CoV-2, and COVID-19 in pregnancy is associated with more severe disease and increased risk of abnormal pregnancy outcomes, we also discuss the role of ACE2 in mediating some of these adverse consequences. We propose that dysregulation of ACE2 plays a critical role in the development of preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and COVID-19-associated pregnancy pathologies and suggest that human recombinant soluble ACE2 could be a novel therapeutic to treat and/or prevent these pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Tamanna
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Eugenie R Lumbers
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Saije K Morosin
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah J Delforce
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kirsty G Pringle
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
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50
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Fagyas M, Fejes Z, Sütő R, Nagy Z, Székely B, Pócsi M, Ivády G, Bíró E, Bekő G, Nagy A, Kerekes G, Szentkereszty Z, Papp Z, Tóth A, Kappelmayer J, Nagy B. Circulating ACE2 activity predicts mortality and disease severity in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Int J Infect Dis 2021; 115:8-16. [PMID: 34838959 PMCID: PMC8613979 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) represents the primary receptor for SARS-CoV-2 to enter endothelial cells. Here we investigated circulating ACE2 activity to predict the severity and mortality of COVID-19. Methods Serum ACE2 activity was measured in COVID-19 (110 critically ill and 66 severely ill subjects at hospital admission and 106 follow-up samples) and in 32 non-COVID-19 severe sepsis patients. Associations between ACE2, inflammation-dependent biomarkers, pre-existing comorbidities, and clinical outcomes were studied. Results Initial ACE2 activity was significantly higher in critically ill COVID-19 patients (54.4 [36.7-90.8] mU/L) than in severe COVID-19 (34.5 [25.2-48.7] mU/L; P<0.0001) and non-COVID-19 sepsis patients (40.9 [21.4-65.7] mU/L; P=0.0260) regardless of comorbidities. Circulating ACE2 activity correlated with inflammatory biomarkers and was further elevated during the hospital stay in critically ill patients. Based on ROC-curve analysis and logistic regression test, baseline ACE2 independently indicated the severity of COVID-19 with an AUC value of 0.701 (95% CI [0.621-0.781], P<0.0001). Furthermore, non-survivors showed higher serum ACE2 activity vs. survivors at hospital admission (P<0.0001). Finally, high ACE2 activity (≥45.4 mU/L) predicted a higher risk (65 vs. 37%) for 30-day mortality (Log-Rank P<0.0001). Conclusions Serum ACE2 activity correlates with COVID-19 severity and predicts mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miklós Fagyas
- Department of Cardiology, Division of Clinical Physiology
| | | | - Renáta Sütő
- Doctoral School of Kálmán Laki, University of Debrecen; Gyula Kenézy Campus, Intensive Care Unit
| | | | - Borbála Székely
- Department of Internal Medicine, Intensive Care Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Marianna Pócsi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine; Doctoral School of Kálmán Laki, University of Debrecen
| | | | - Edina Bíró
- South-Pest Central Hospital, National Institute of Hematology and Infectiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Bekő
- South-Pest Central Hospital, National Institute of Hematology and Infectiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Attila Nagy
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - György Kerekes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Intensive Care Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | | | - Zoltán Papp
- Department of Cardiology, Division of Clinical Physiology; HAS-UD Vascular Biology and Myocardial Pathophysiology Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Attila Tóth
- Department of Cardiology, Division of Clinical Physiology; HAS-UD Vascular Biology and Myocardial Pathophysiology Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
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