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Allahverdiyeva S, Geyer CE, Veth J, de Vries LM, de Taeye SW, van Gils MJ, den Dunnen J, Chen HJ. Testosterone and estradiol reduce inflammation of human macrophages induced by anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG. Eur J Immunol 2024:e2451226. [PMID: 39246165 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202451226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 08/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
COVID-19, the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, particularly causes severe inflammatory disease in elderly, obese, and male patients. Since both aging and obesity are associated with decreased testosterone and estradiol expression, we hypothesized that decreased hormone levels contribute to excessive inflammation in the context of COVID-19. Previously, we and others have shown that hyperinflammation in severe COVID-19 patients is induced by the production of pathogenic anti-spike IgG antibodies that activate alveolar macrophages. Therefore, we developed an in vitro assay in which we stimulated human macrophages with viral stimuli, anti-spike IgG immune complexes, and different sex hormones. Treatment with levels of testosterone reflecting young adults led to a significant reduction in TNF and IFN-γ production by human macrophages. In addition, estradiol significantly attenuated the production of a very broad panel of cytokines, including TNF, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and IFN-γ. Both testosterone and estradiol reduced the expression of Fc gamma receptors IIa and III, the two main receptors responsible for anti-spike IgG-induced inflammation. Combined, these findings indicate that sex hormones reduce the inflammatory response of human alveolar macrophages to specific COVID-19-associated stimuli, thereby providing a potential immunological mechanism for the development of severe COVID-19 in both older male and female patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sona Allahverdiyeva
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Chiara E Geyer
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jennifer Veth
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Laura M de Vries
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Steven W de Taeye
- Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marit J van Gils
- Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen den Dunnen
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hung-Jen Chen
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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González M, Al-Adib M, Rodríguez AB, Carrasco C. COVID-19 and menstrual-related disturbances: a Spanish retrospective observational study in formerly menstruating women. Front Glob Womens Health 2024; 5:1393765. [PMID: 39140011 PMCID: PMC11319254 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2024.1393765] [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: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Four years after the start of the pandemic, there is limited evidence on the impact of COVID-19 on the women's health regardless of their reproductive status. Objective The aim was to analyze the prevalence and associated factors of menstrual-related disturbances in formerly menstruating women following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Study design A retrospective observational study of adult women in Spain was conducted during the month of December 2021 using an online survey (N = 17,512). The present analysis includes a subpopulation of SARS-CoV-2-infected and formerly menstruating women (n = 72). The collected data included general characteristics, medical history, and specific information on COVID-19. Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U-tests were performed. Bivariate logistic regression analysis was then performed to investigate possible associations between the occurrence of menstrual-related disturbances after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Results 38.8% of participants experienced menstrual-related disturbances following COVID-19. Among these, unexpected vaginal bleeding (20.8%) was the most common event, followed by spotting (11.1%) ( Table 1). Other reported changes were in the length (shorter = 12.5%) and flow (heavier = 30.3%) of menstrual bleeding in comparison to their previous experience. Regression analysis revealed that being a perimenopausal woman [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 4.721, CI 95%, 1.022-21.796, p = 0.047] and having a previous diagnosis of menorrhagia (AOR 5.824 CI 95%, 1.521-22.310, p = 0.010) were factors associated with the event. Conclusion These findings could help health professionals provide their patients with up-to-date scientific information to empower them to actively manage their reproductive health, especially in societies where menstrual health is still taboo.
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Affiliation(s)
- María González
- Grupo de investigación Neuroinmunofisiología y Crononutrición, Departamento de Fisiología, Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Miriam Al-Adib
- Grupo de investigación Neuroinmunofisiología y Crononutrición, Departamento de Fisiología, Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Clinics “Miriam Gine”, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Ana B. Rodríguez
- Grupo de investigación Neuroinmunofisiología y Crononutrición, Departamento de Fisiología, Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Cristina Carrasco
- Grupo de investigación Neuroinmunofisiología y Crononutrición, Departamento de Fisiología, Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
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3
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Maham S, Yoon MS. Clinical Spectrum of Long COVID: Effects on Female Reproductive Health. Viruses 2024; 16:1142. [PMID: 39066303 PMCID: PMC11281454 DOI: 10.3390/v16071142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has presented numerous health challenges, including long-term COVID, which affects female reproductive health. This review consolidates the current research on the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on the menstrual cycle, ovarian function, fertility, and overall gynecological health. This study emphasizes the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme receptors in viral entry and the subsequent tissue-specific pathological effects. It also explores the potential influence of long COVID on hormonal balance and immune responses, contributing to menstrual irregularities and impaired ovarian function. The findings indicate a higher prevalence of long-term COVID-19 among women, highlighting the substantial implications for reproductive health and the need for sex-sensitive longitudinal studies. Enhanced surveillance and targeted research are essential to develop effective interventions that prioritize women's reproductive well-being following SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review advocates for a sex-informed approach to ongoing COVID-19 research and healthcare strategies, aiming to provide up-to-date and pertinent data for healthcare providers and the general public, ultimately improving outcomes for females affected by long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Maham
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Gachon Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea;
| | - Mee-Sup Yoon
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Gachon Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
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4
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Xiao H, Wei J, Yuan L, Li J, Zhang C, Liu G, Liu X. Sex hormones in COVID-19 severity: The quest for evidence and influence mechanisms. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18490. [PMID: 38923119 PMCID: PMC11194454 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18490] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Studies have reported variable effects of sex hormones on serious diseases. Severe disease and mortality rates in COVID-19 show marked gender differences that may be related to sex hormones. Sex hormones regulate the expression of the viral receptors ACE2 and TMPRSS2, which affect the extent of viral infection and consequently cause variable outcomes. In addition, sex hormones have complex regulatory mechanisms that affect the immune response to viruses. These hormones also affect metabolism, leading to visceral obesity and severe disease can result from complications such as thrombosis. This review presents the latest researches on the regulatory functions of hormones in viral receptors, immune responses, complications as well as their role in COVID-19 progression. It also discusses the therapeutic possibilities of these hormones by reviewing the recent findings of clinical and assay studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiqing Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory & Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, Institute of Artificial Intelligence, School of Public HealthXiamen UniversityXiamenChina
| | - Jiayi Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory & Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, Institute of Artificial Intelligence, School of Public HealthXiamen UniversityXiamenChina
| | - Lunzhi Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory & Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, Institute of Artificial Intelligence, School of Public HealthXiamen UniversityXiamenChina
| | - Jiayuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory & Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, Institute of Artificial Intelligence, School of Public HealthXiamen UniversityXiamenChina
| | - Chang Zhang
- Clinical Center for Biotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen)Fudan UniversityXiamenChina
| | - Gang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory & Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, Institute of Artificial Intelligence, School of Public HealthXiamen UniversityXiamenChina
| | - Xuan Liu
- Clinical Center for Biotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen)Fudan UniversityXiamenChina
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5
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Jia Y, Qi D, Wang T, Zhang Y, Chen X, Deng H, Meng D. The role of pre-onset hair hormone in predicting the prognosis of patients with severe pneumonia and acute COVID-19 outbreak. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30636. [PMID: 38765161 PMCID: PMC11098831 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30636] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Numerous research works have investigated the potential impact of endocrine hormones on the severity of COVID-19-related pneumonia in individuals. However, there are few studies on the effect of pre-onset neuroendocrine hormones on the prognosis of COVID-19 patients. This study looked into the prognostic value of pre-onset hair hormone levels in COVID-19 infected individuals. This study included 27 patients with COVID-19 and collected patient information and laboratory indicators. The hormone levels in hair were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Within 28 days, 63 % of the patients in this study passed away. With 28-day mortality as the outcome index, urea nitrogen, CURB-65 score and pneumonia severity score (PSI) of 2 groups were statistically significant (P < 0.05). Among all hormone levels detected in hair, only progesterone level was substantially correlated negatively with COVID-19 patients' 28-day mortality(P < 0.05). The level of progesterone in hair was substantially adversely connected with the death rate at 28 days of COVID-19 patients, according to correlation and logistic regression analysis(P < 0.05). Among patients with COVID-19 pneumonia, hair progesterone levels were strongly associated with 28-day mortality, which emphasizes hair progesterone's importance as a prognostic factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Jia
- Rehabilitation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Deyi Qi
- School of Biological Science & Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tiantian Wang
- Rehabilitation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuyao Zhang
- Rehabilitation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xufeng Chen
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huihua Deng
- School of Biological Science & Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dianhuai Meng
- Rehabilitation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
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Erel CT, Ozcivit Erkan IB, Inan NG, Hamzaoglu Canbolat K, Alkan S, Konukoglu D, Dikmen Y. The impact of menopause and serum DHEA-S level on the severity of Covid-19. Maturitas 2024; 179:107883. [PMID: 37939450 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2023.107883] [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: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to demonstrate the difference between premenopausal and postmenopausal women in respect of the clinical course and outcomes of Covid-19. We investigated the epidemiological and hormonal factors which influence the severity of the disease. STUDY DESIGN This observational cross-sectional study included the female patients admitted to a Covid-19 outpatient clinic between July 2020 and June 2021 and diagnosed with a positive polymerase chain reaction test. Blood samples were obtained to determine the serum levels of follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estradiol, total testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Our primary outcome was the poor clinical course of the disease in postmenopausal women. Our secondary outcome was the contribution of hormonal status to the clinical course of the disease. RESULTS Our cohort consisted of 253 female patients (85 with mild, 125 with moderate and 43 with severe disease; 101 at the premenopausal and 152 at the postmenopausal stage). There was a statistically significant difference between the patients in different severity groups regarding clinical data and serum levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, estradiol and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. Being one year younger decreased the odds of having severe Covid-19 0.338-fold relative to the group with mild disease. A decrease in the serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate level was associated with a 2.604-fold increase in the odds of having severe Covid-19 relative to the group with mild disease. Being postmenopausal increased the odds of having severe disease compared with mild disease by 2.687-fold. CONCLUSIONS The prognosis of Covid-19 is more favorable in premenopausal women compared with postmenopausal women. Age, postmenopausal status and serum levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate are important predictors of the severity of Covid-19 for women.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Tamer Erel
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ipek Betul Ozcivit Erkan
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Neslihan Gokmen Inan
- Koc University, College of Engineering, Department of Computer Engineering, Rumelifeneri Yolu, 34450 Sarıyer, İstanbul, Turkey.
| | - Kubra Hamzaoglu Canbolat
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sena Alkan
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Dildar Konukoglu
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yalım Dikmen
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Istanbul, Turkey
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Akbari A, Zarifian A, Hadizadeh A, Hajmolarezaei E. Incidence and Outcomes Associated with Menopausal Status in COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE GINECOLOGIA E OBSTETRÍCIA 2023; 45:e796-e807. [PMID: 38141601 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1772595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Menopause causes several changes in the body that may affect the response to COVID -19. We aimed to investigate the possible association between menopausal status and incidence and outcomes in COVID-19 patients. METHODS Combinations of keywordsCOVID-19, menopause, and estrogen were used to search the PubMed, Embase, Web-of-Science, and Scopus databases for articles reporting the incidence and outcomes of COVID-19 (discharge, length-of-admission, intensive care, or mortality) in premenopausal women, available through December 29, 2022. Data from studies comparing the incidence of COVID-19 infection with the age-matched male population were pooled and meta-analyzed using a random-effects model. RESULTS Overall, 1,564 studies were retrieved, of which 12 were finally included in the systematic review to compare disease outcomes, and 6 were meta-analyzed for the incidence of COVID-19 in premenopausal and postmenopausal women. All studies reported better COVID-19-associated outcomes in premenopausal women compared with postmenopausal women. After adjusting for confounding factors, three studies found better outcomes in postmenopausal women, and two found no association between menopausal status and COVID-19 outcomes. Our meta-analysis found a higher incidence of COVID-19 infection among premenopausal women than postmenopausal women, when compared with age-matched men (odds ratio = 1.270; 95% confidence interval: 1.086-1.486; p = 0.003). CONCLUSION The incidence of COVID-19 was significantly higher in premenopausal women than in postmenopausal women when compared with age-matched men. Although premenopausal women may have more favorable COVID-19-associated outcomes, the presumed preventive effect of estrogens on the incidence and related outcomes of COVID-19 in premenopausal women cannot be proven at present. Further longitudinal studies comparing pre- and post-menopausal women are required to provide further insight into this matter.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmadreza Zarifian
- Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- University Hospital Lewisham, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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8
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Xiao Y, Chang L, Ji H, Sun H, Song S, Feng K, Nuermaimaiti A, Halemubieke S, Mei L, Lu Z, Yan Y, Wang L. Posttranslational modifications of ACE2 protein: Implications for SARS-CoV-2 infection and beyond. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e29304. [PMID: 38063421 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
The present worldwide pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has highlighted the important function of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as a receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) entry. A deeper understanding of ACE2 could offer insights into the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection. While ACE2 is subject to regulation by various factors in vivo, current research in this area is insufficient to fully elucidate the corresponding pathways of control. Posttranslational modification (PTM) is a powerful tool for broadening the variety of proteins. The PTM study of ACE2 will help us to make up for the deficiency in the regulation of protein synthesis and translation. However, research on PTM-related aspects of ACE2 remains limited, mostly focused on glycosylation. Accordingly, a comprehensive review of ACE2 PTMs could help us better understand the infection process and provide a basis for the treatment of COVID-19 and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingzi Xiao
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Le Chang
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Huimin Ji
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Huizhen Sun
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shi Song
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaihao Feng
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Abudulimutailipu Nuermaimaiti
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shana Halemubieke
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Mei
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuoqun Lu
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Yan
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lunan Wang
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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9
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Forster M, Wuerstlein R, Koenig A, Stefan A, Wiegershausen E, Batz F, Trillsch F, Mahner S, Harbeck N, Chelariu-Raicu A. Health-related quality of life and patient-centred outcomes with COVID-19 vaccination in patients with breast cancer and gynaecological malignancies. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1217805. [PMID: 37901314 PMCID: PMC10602875 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1217805] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Safety and tolerability of COVID-19 vaccines were demonstrated by several clinical trials which led to the first FDA/EMA approvals in 2021. Because of mass immunizations, most social restrictions were waived with effects on quality of life. Therefore, our a-priori hypothesis was that COVID-19 vaccination impacted the health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) in patients with breast and gynecological cancer. Methods From March 15th until August 11th, 2022, fully vaccinated patients with breast and gynecological cancer treated in the oncological outpatient clinics of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany filled out a vaccine related QoL survey. Patients were asked about demographics (age, comorbidities), clinical parameters related to previous COVID-19 infections, and HR-QoL related parameters (living situation, responsibilities in everyday life). Subsequently, a questionnaire with 12 items was designed using a 5-point Likert scale (0 - strongly disagree/4 - strongly agree), covering the aspects health and therapy, social environment, participation in everyday life and overall assessment. Results By August 11th, 2022, 108 out of 114 (94.7%) patients had received at least three doses of COVID-19 vaccine and six patients at least two doses. More than half of the surveyed patients were >55y (52.6%; mean: 55.1y, range 29-86y). Patients with breast cancer (n= 83) had early (59.0%) or metastatic cancer (41.0%); gynecological cancers (n=31) also included metastatic (54.8%) and non-metastatic cancer (45.2%). 83.3% of the patients stated that COVID-19 vaccination had a positive impact on their HR-QoL. Furthermore, 29 patients (25.4%) had undergone a COVID-19 infection. These patients reported self-limiting symptoms for a median duration of 5.9 days and no hospital admissions were registered. Conclusions Our study demonstrates that vaccination against COVID-19 was positively associated with HR-QoL in patients with breast and gynecological cancer. Furthermore, vaccinated patients who underwent COVID-19 disease experienced only self-limiting symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Anca Chelariu-Raicu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Breast Center, Gynecologic Oncology Center and CCC Munich, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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10
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Liu Y, Li H, Peng Y, Gao L, Liu C, Wei B, Luo Z. Impacts of pregnancy and menopause on COVID-19 severity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 4.6 million women. QJM 2023; 116:755-765. [PMID: 37228103 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcad106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is still a public health emergency of international concern. However, whether pregnancy and menopause impact the severity of COVID-19 remain unclear. AIM This study is performed to investigate the truth. DESIGN Study appraisal and synthesis follows PRISMA guideline. Meta-analysis is performed in random-effects model. METHODS PubMed, Embase, Cochrane database, Central, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO COVID-19 database and WHO-ICTRP are searched until 28 March 2023. RESULTS In total, 57 studies (4 640 275 COVID-19 women) were analyzed. Pregnant women were at a lower risk of severe COVID-19, intensive care unit (ICU) admission and disease mortality compared to those nonpregnant women with comparable comorbidities. In contrast, pregnant women with more prepregnancy comorbidities were at a higher risk of severe COVID-19, ICU admission and invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). In addition, pregnant women with pregnancy complications had a significantly increased risk of severe COVID-19 and ICU admission. Menopause increased COVID-19 severity, IMV requirement and disease mortality. Hormone replacement therapy inhibited COVID-19 severity in postmenopausal women. Premenopausal and postmenopausal women had a lower chance of severe illness than age-matched men. The impact of pregnancy on COVID-19 severity was significant in Americans and Caucasians, whereas the effect of menopause on COVID-19 severity was only significant in Chinese. CONCLUSIONS Pregnancy and menopause are protective and risk factors for severe COVID-19, respectively. The protective role of pregnancy on COVID-19 is minimal and could be counteracted or masked by prepregnancy or pregnancy comorbidities. The administration of estrogen and progesterone may prevent severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, China Resources and WISCO General Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - H Li
- Department of Geratology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Y Peng
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - L Gao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - C Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - B Wei
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Myocardial Injury and Repair, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Z Luo
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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11
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Ahn JS, Jang CH. Sensitive detection of 17β-estradiol at a picomolar level using an aptamer-assisted liquid crystal-based optical sensor. Anal Bioanal Chem 2023; 415:6323-6332. [PMID: 37581706 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-023-04907-0] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
A liquid crystal (LC)-based aptasensor was developed that can detect 17β-estradiol (E2) at the picomolar level. This aptasensor is based on competitive reactions of the aptamer that interacts with cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) and E2 at the aqueous/LC interface. The long alkyl chain of CTAB anchored the 4-cyano-4'-pentylbiphenyl (5CB) to a homeotropic state and controls the local anchoring depending on the extent of electrostatic interaction with the aptamer. Upon addition of the aptamer solution to the CTAB-saturated LC layer, LCs change from dark to bright optical response. This is due to the perturbed orientation of 5CB at the aqueous/LC interface as a result of electrostatic attraction of the cationic group of CTAB and the phosphate group of the aptamer. The conformational change of the aptamer due to specific binding with E2 weakens the electrostatic attraction between CTAB and aptamer. When specific binding becomes relatively dominant, CTAB induces the orientation of LCs to the homeotropic state, resulting in a dark optical image observed. We also analyzed the change in the optical response of LCs according to the interfacial events and compared the grayscale values of the optical image for each concentration of E2 to determine the detection limit. Accordingly, the detection limit of the E2 sensor was found to be 3.1 pM (0.8 pg/ml) in Tris-buffered saline (TBS), and 6.8 pM (1.9 pg/ml) in human urine. The LC-based optical aptasensor was thus shown to be highly sensitive and selective with no requirement for complex analysis equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Seong Ahn
- Department of Chemistry, Gachon University, Seongnam-daero 1342, Sujeong-Gu, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 13120, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Hyun Jang
- Department of Chemistry, Gachon University, Seongnam-daero 1342, Sujeong-Gu, Seongnam-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 13120, Republic of Korea.
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12
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Muyayalo KP, Gong GS, Kiyonga Aimeé K, Liao AH. Impaired immune response against SARS-CoV-2 infection is the major factor indirectly altering reproductive function in COVID-19 patients: a narrative review. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:778-796. [PMID: 37811836 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2023.2262757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease affecting multiple systems and organs, including the reproductive system. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, can damage reproductive organs through direct (angiotensin converting enzyme-2, ACE-2) and indirect mechanisms. The immune system plays an essential role in the homeostasis and function of the male and female reproductive systems. Therefore, an altered immune response related to infectious and inflammatory diseases can affect reproductive function and fertility in both males and females. This narrative review discussed the dysregulation of innate and adaptive systems induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection. We reviewed the evidence showing that this altered immune response in COVID-19 patients is the major indirect mechanism leading to adverse reproduction outcomes in these patients. We summarized studies reporting the long-term effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on women's reproductive function and proposed the chronic inflammation and chronic autoimmunity characterizing long COVID as potential underlying mechanisms. Further studies are needed to clarify the role of autoimmunity and chronic inflammation (long COVID) in altered female reproduction function in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kahindo P Muyayalo
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P. R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, D. R. Congo
| | - Guang-Shun Gong
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Kahindo Kiyonga Aimeé
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Tropical Medicine Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, D. R. Congo
| | - Ai-Hua Liao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P. R. China
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13
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Wu X, Wong KW, Gurvich C, Dong Y. Impact of COVID-19 on health of menopausal women: A scoping review. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2023; 84:125-141. [PMID: 37473503 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2023.07.001] [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: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This scoping review aims to map and summarize the direct impact of contracting COVID-19, and the indirect consequences of the pandemic on the health of peri- and postmenopausal women. METHODS Searches for published studies were conducted in CINAHL, Cochrane, EMBASE, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO and ProQuest from inception to 26 Oct, 2022. Grey literature and reference lists of included studies were searched. Results are presented as a narrative synthesis and tables. RESULTS Thirty-eight studies were selected in this review. Overall, a majority of studies (n = 31) suggest that menopausal women were negatively impacted, while lesser studies (n = 21) concluded that they were not and some studies (n = 14) produced both negative and neutral results. Twenty-three studies presented on the direct health impact of COVID-19 infections on menopausal women. Eleven studies focused on the indirect impact of COVID-19 in terms of contact restriction measures on menopausal health during the pandemic compared to before the pandemic. Six studies described the different indirect impact of COVID-19 on health of menopausal women with various characteristics or lifestyles. CONCLUSION The direct and indirect impacts of COVID-19 on menopausal women on physical, mental health and social wellbeing are largely negative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyao Wu
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kang Wei Wong
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Caroline Gurvich
- Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Australia
| | - Yanhong Dong
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
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14
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Azzouzi M, Ouafi ZE, Azougagh O, Daoudi W, Ghazal H, Barkany SE, Abderrazak R, Mazières S, Aatiaoui AE, Oussaid A. Design, synthesis, and computational studies of novel imidazo[1,2- a]pyrimidine derivatives as potential dual inhibitors of hACE2 and spike protein for blocking SARS-CoV-2 cell entry. J Mol Struct 2023; 1285:135525. [PMID: 37057139 PMCID: PMC10080474 DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2023.135525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
In the present work, a new series of imidazo[1,2-a]pyrimidine Schiff base derivatives have been obtained using an easy and conventional synthetic route. The synthesized compounds were spectroscopically characterized using 1H, 13C NMR, LC-MS(ESI), and FT-IR techniques. Green metric calculations indicate adherence to several green chemistry principles. The energy of Frontier Molecular Orbitals (FMO), Molecular Electrostatic Potential (MEP), Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM), and Reduced Density Gradient (RDG) were determined by the Density Functional Theory (DFT) method at B3LYP/6-31 G (d, p) as the basis set. Moreover, molecular docking studies targeting the human ACE2 and the spike, key entrance proteins of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 were carried out along with hACE2 natural ligand Angiotensin II, the MLN-4760 inhibitor as well as the Cannabidiolic Acid CBDA which has been demonstrated to bind to the spike protein and block cell entry. The molecular modeling results showed auspicious results in terms of binding affinity as the top-scoring compound exhibited a remarkable affinity (-9.1 and -7.3 kcal/mol) to the ACE2 and spike protein respectively compared to CBDA (-5.7 kcal/mol), the MLN-4760 inhibitor (-7.3 kcal/mol), and angiotensin II (-9.2 kcal/mol). These findings suggest that the synthesized compounds may potentially act as effective entrance inhibitors, preventing the SARS-CoV-2 infection of human cells. Furthermore, in silico, ADMET, and drug-likeness prediction expressed promising drug-like characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Azzouzi
- Laboratory of Molecular Chemistry, Materials and Environment (LCM2E), Department of Chemistry, Multidisciplinary Faculty of Nador, University Mohamed I, Nador 60700, Morocco
| | - Zainab El Ouafi
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, School of Pharmacy, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences Casablanca, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Omar Azougagh
- Laboratory of Molecular Chemistry, Materials and Environment (LCM2E), Department of Chemistry, Multidisciplinary Faculty of Nador, University Mohamed I, Nador 60700, Morocco
| | - Walid Daoudi
- Laboratory of Molecular Chemistry, Materials and Environment (LCM2E), Department of Chemistry, Multidisciplinary Faculty of Nador, University Mohamed I, Nador 60700, Morocco
| | - Hassan Ghazal
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, School of Pharmacy, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences Casablanca, Casablanca, Morocco
- Electronic Systems, Sensors and Nanobiotechnologies (E2SN), École Nationale Supérieure des Arts et Métiers (ENSAM), Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Soufian El Barkany
- Laboratory of Molecular Chemistry, Materials and Environment (LCM2E), Department of Chemistry, Multidisciplinary Faculty of Nador, University Mohamed I, Nador 60700, Morocco
| | - Rfaki Abderrazak
- National Center for Scientific and Technical Research (CNRST), Rabat, Morocco
| | - Stéphane Mazières
- Laboratory of IMRCP, University Paul Sabatier, CNRS UMR 5623, 118 route de Narbonne, Toulouse 31062, France
| | - Abdelmalik El Aatiaoui
- Laboratory of Molecular Chemistry, Materials and Environment (LCM2E), Department of Chemistry, Multidisciplinary Faculty of Nador, University Mohamed I, Nador 60700, Morocco
| | - Adyl Oussaid
- Laboratory of Molecular Chemistry, Materials and Environment (LCM2E), Department of Chemistry, Multidisciplinary Faculty of Nador, University Mohamed I, Nador 60700, Morocco
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15
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Poma AM, Bonuccelli D, Macerola E, Niballi S, Basolo A, Santini F, Basolo F, Toniolo A. Transcriptional changes in multiple endocrine organs from lethal cases of COVID-19. J Mol Med (Berl) 2023; 101:973-986. [PMID: 37246981 PMCID: PMC10225763 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-023-02334-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Altered circulating hormone and metabolite levels have been reported during and post-COVID-19. Yet, studies of gene expression at the tissue level capable of identifying the causes of endocrine dysfunctions are lacking. Transcript levels of endocrine-specific genes were analyzed in five endocrine organs of lethal COVID-19 cases. Overall, 116 autoptic specimens from 77 individuals (50 COVID-19 cases and 27 uninfected controls) were included. Samples were tested for the SARS-CoV-2 genome. The adrenals, pancreas, ovary, thyroid, and white adipose tissue (WAT) were investigated. Transcript levels of 42 endocrine-specific and 3 interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) were measured and compared between COVID-19 cases (virus-positive and virus-negative in each tissue) and uninfected controls. ISG transcript levels were enhanced in SARS-CoV-2-positive tissues. Endocrine-specific genes (e.g., HSD3B2, INS, IAPP, TSHR, FOXE1, LEP, and CRYGD) were deregulated in COVID-19 cases in an organ-specific manner. Transcription of organ-specific genes was suppressed in virus-positive specimens of the ovary, pancreas, and thyroid but enhanced in the adrenals. In WAT of COVID-19 cases, transcription of ISGs and leptin was enhanced independently of virus detection in tissue. Though vaccination and prior infection have a protective role against acute and long-term effects of COVID-19, clinicians must be aware that endocrine manifestations can derive from virus-induced and/or stress-induced transcriptional changes of individual endocrine genes. KEY MESSAGES: • SARS-CoV-2 can infect adipose tissue, adrenals, ovary, pancreas and thyroid. • Infection of endocrine organs induces interferon response. • Interferon response is observed in adipose tissue independently of virus presence. • Endocrine-specific genes are deregulated in an organ-specific manner in COVID-19. • Transcription of crucial genes such as INS, TSHR and LEP is altered in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anello Marcello Poma
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 67, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Diana Bonuccelli
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Azienda USL Toscana Nordovest, Lucca, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Macerola
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 67, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sara Niballi
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Azienda USL Toscana Nordovest, Lucca, Italy
| | - Alessio Basolo
- Obesity and Lipodystrophy Center, Endocrinology Unit, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Ferruccio Santini
- Obesity and Lipodystrophy Center, Endocrinology Unit, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fulvio Basolo
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 67, 56126, Pisa, Italy
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16
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Hansen K, Cohen MA, Ramanadhan S, Paynter R, Edelman A, Henderson JT. Risk of thromboembolism in patients with COVID-19 who are using hormonal contraception: a Cochrane systematic review. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 49:201-209. [PMID: 36882324 PMCID: PMC10359512 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2023-201792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease COVID-19 is associated with an increased risk of thrombotic events. Individuals with COVID-19 using hormonal contraception could be at additional risk for thromboembolism, but evidence is sparse. METHODS We conducted a systematic review on the risk of thromboembolism with hormonal contraception use in women aged 15-51 years with COVID-19. We searched multiple databases through March 2022, including all studies comparing outcomes of patients with COVID-19 using or not using hormonal contraception. We applied standard risk of bias tools to evaluate studies and GRADE methodology to assess certainty of evidence. Our primary outcomes were venous and arterial thromboembolism. Secondary outcomes included hospitalisation, acute respiratory distress syndrome, intubation, and mortality. RESULTS Of 2119 studies screened, three comparative non-randomised studies of interventions (NRSIs) and two case series met the inclusion criteria. All studies had serious to critical risk of bias and low study quality. Overall, there may be little to no effect of combined hormonal contraception (CHC) use on odds of mortality for COVID-19-positive patients (OR 1.0, 95% CI 0.41 to 2.4). The odds of hospitalisation for COVID-19-positive CHC users may be slightly decreased compared with non-users for patients with body mass index <35 kg/m2 (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.97). Use of any type of hormonal contraception may have little to no effect on hospitalisation rates for COVID-19-positive individuals (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.44). CONCLUSIONS Not enough evidence exists to draw conclusions regarding risk of thromboembolism in patients with COVID-19 using hormonal contraception. Evidence suggests there may be little to no or slightly decreased odds of hospitalisation, and little to no effect on odds of mortality for hormonal contraception users versus non-users with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Hansen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Megan A Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Shaalini Ramanadhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Robin Paynter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Alison Edelman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Jillian T Henderson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Evidence-based Practice Center, Kaiser Permanente, Portland, Oregon, USA
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17
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Harakeh S, Khan IA, Rani GF, Ibrahim M, Khan AS, Almuhayawi M, Al-Raddadi R, Teklemariam AD, Hazzazi MS, Bawazir WM, Niyazi HA, Alamri T, Niyazi HA, Yousafzai YM. Transplacental Transfer of SARS-CoV-2 Receptor-Binding Domain IgG Antibodies from Mothers to Neonates in a Cohort of Pakistani Unvaccinated Mothers. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1651. [PMID: 37371746 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061651] [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: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of COVID-19 antibodies in the maternal circulation is assumed to be protective for newborns against SARS-CoV-2 infection. We investigated whether maternal COVID-19 antibodies crossed the transplacental barrier and whether there was any difference in the hematological parameters of neonates born to mothers who recovered from COVID-19 during pregnancy. The cross-sectional study was conducted at the Saidu Group of Teaching Hospitals, located in Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. After obtaining written informed consent, 115 healthy, unvaccinated mother-neonate dyads were included. A clinical history of COVID-19-like illness, laboratory-confirmed diagnosis, and contact history were obtained. Serum samples from mothers and neonates were tested for SARS-CoV-2 anti-receptor-binding domain (anti-RBD) IgG antibodies. Hematological parameters were assessed with complete blood counts (CBC) and peripheral blood smear examinations. The study population consisted of 115 mothers, with a mean age of 29.44 ± 5.75 years, and most women (68/115 (59.1%)) were between 26 and 35 years of age. Of these mothers, 88/115 (76.5 percent) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 anti-RBD IgG antibodies, as did 83/115 (72.2 percent) neonatal cord blood samples. The mean levels of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies in maternal and neonatal blood were 19.86 ± 13.82 (IU/mL) and 16.16 ± 12.90 (IU/mL), respectively, indicating that maternal antibodies efficiently crossed the transplacental barrier with an antibody transfer ratio of 0.83. The study found no significant difference in complete blood count (CBC) parameters between seropositive and seronegative mothers, nor between neonates born to seropositive and seronegative mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Harakeh
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Yousef Abdul Latif Jameel Scientific Chair of Prophetic Medicine Application, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22230, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ihsan Alam Khan
- Department of Hematology, Institute of Pathology and Diagnostic Medicine, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar 25100, Pakistan
- Department of Pathology, Swat Medical College, Swat 19200, Pakistan
| | - Gulab Fatima Rani
- Department of Hematology, Institute of Pathology and Diagnostic Medicine, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar 25100, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ibrahim
- Department of Hematology, Institute of Pathology and Diagnostic Medicine, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar 25100, Pakistan
| | - Aysha Sarwar Khan
- Department of Hematology, Institute of Pathology and Diagnostic Medicine, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar 25100, Pakistan
| | - Mohammed Almuhayawi
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rajaa Al-Raddadi
- Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Addisu D Teklemariam
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohannad S Hazzazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22254, Saudi Arabia
- Hematology Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22254, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed M Bawazir
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22254, Saudi Arabia
- Hematology Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 22254, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hanouf A Niyazi
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Turki Alamri
- Family and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hatoon A Niyazi
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yasar Mehmood Yousafzai
- Department of Hematology, Institute of Pathology and Diagnostic Medicine, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar 25100, Pakistan
- Rehman Medical Institute, Hayatabad Phase-V, Peshawar 25600, Pakistan
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18
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Ramanadhan S, Hansen K, Henderson JT, Cohen MA, Paynter R, Edelman A. Risk of thromboembolism in patients with COVID-19 who are using hormonal contraception. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 5:CD014908. [PMID: 37184292 PMCID: PMC10184518 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd014908.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has led to significant mortality and morbidity, including a high incidence of related thrombotic events. There has been concern regarding hormonal contraception use during the COVID-19 pandemic, as this is an independent risk factor for thrombosis, particularly with estrogen-containing formulations. However, higher estrogen levels may be protective against severe COVID-19 disease. Evidence for risks of hormonal contraception use during the COVID-19 pandemic is sparse. We conducted a living systematic review that will be updated as new data emerge on the risk of thromboembolism with hormonal contraception use in patients with COVID-19. OBJECTIVES To determine if use of hormonal contraception increases risk of venous and arterial thromboembolism in women with COVID-19. To determine if use of hormonal contraception increases other markers of COVID-19 severity including hospitalization in the intensive care unit, acute respiratory distress syndrome, intubation, and mortality. A secondary objective is to maintain the currency of the evidence, using a living systematic review approach. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Global Index Medicus, Global Health, and Scopus from inception on March 2023, and monitored the literature monthly. We updated the search strategies with new terms and added the database Global Index Medicus in lieu of LILACS. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all published and ongoing studies of patients with COVID-19 comparing outcomes of those on hormonal contraception versus those not on hormonal contraception. This included case series and non-randomized studies of interventions (NRSI). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS One review author extracted study data and this was checked by a second author. Two authors individually assessed risk of bias for the comparative studies using the ROBINS-I tool and a third helped reconcile differences. For the living systematic review, we will publish updates to our synthesis every six months. In the event that we identify a study with a more rigorous study design than the current included evidence prior to the planned six-month update, we will expedite the synthesis publication. MAIN RESULTS We included three comparative NRSIs with 314,704 participants total and two case series describing 13 patients. The three NRSIs had serious to critical risk of bias in several domains and low study quality. Only one NRSI ascertained current use of contraceptives based on patient report; the other two used diagnostic codes within medical records to assess hormonal contraception use, but did not confirm current use nor indication for use. None of the NRSIs included thromboembolism as an outcome. Studies were not similar enough in terms of their outcomes, interventions, and study populations to combine with meta-analyses. We therefore narratively synthesized all included studies. Based on results from one NRSI, there may be little to no effect of combined hormonal contraception use on odds of mortality for COVID-19 positive patients (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.41 to 2.40; 1 study, 18,892 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Two NRSIs examined hospitalization rates for hormonal contraception users versus non-users. Based on results from one NRSI, the odds of hospitalization for COVID-19 positive combined hormonal contraception users may be slightly decreased compared with non-users for patients with BMI under 35 kg/m2 (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.97; 1 study, 295,689 participants; very low-certainty evidence). According to results of the other NRSI assessing use of any type of hormonal contraception, there may be little to no effect on hospitalization rates for COVID-19 positive individuals (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.44; 1 study, 123 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We included two case series because no comparative studies directly assessed thromboembolism as an outcome. In a case series of six pediatric COVID-19 positive patients with pulmonary embolism, one (older than 15 years of age) was using combined hormonal contraception. In a second case series of seven COVID-19 positive patients with cerebral venous thrombosis, one was using oral contraceptives. One comparative study and one case series reported on intubation rates, but the evidence for both is very uncertain. In the comparative study of 123 COVID-19 positive patients (N = 44 using hormonal contraception and N = 79 not using hormonal contraception), no patients in either group required intubation. In the case series of seven individuals with cerebral venous thromboembolism, one oral contraceptive user and one non-user required intubation. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There are no comparative studies assessing risk of thromboembolism in COVID-19 patients who use hormonal contraception, which was the primary objective of this review. Very little evidence exists examining the risk of increased COVID-19 disease severity for combined hormonal contraception users compared to non-users of hormonal contraception, and the evidence that does exist is of very low certainty. The odds of hospitalization for COVID-19 positive users of combined hormonal contraceptives may be slightly decreased compared with those of hormonal contraceptive non-users, but the evidence is very uncertain as this is based on one study restricted to patients with BMI under 35 kg/m2. There may be little to no effect of combined hormonal contraception use on odds of intubation or mortality among COVID-19 positive patients, and little to no effect of using any type of hormonal contraception on odds of hospitalization and intubation for COVID-19 patients. We noted no large effect for risk of increased COVID-19 disease severity among hormonal contraception users. We specifically noted gaps in pertinent data collection regarding hormonal contraception use such as formulation, hormone doses, and duration or timing of contraceptive use. Differing estrogens may have different thrombogenic potential given differing potency, so it would be important to know if a formulation contained, for example, ethinyl estradiol versus estradiol valerate. Additionally, we downgraded several studies for risk of bias because information on the timing of contraceptive use relative to COVID-19 infection and method adherence were not ascertained. No studies reported indication for hormonal contraceptive use, which is important as individuals who use hormonal management for medical conditions like heavy menstrual bleeding might have different risk profiles compared to individuals using hormones for contraception. Future studies should focus on including pertinent confounders like age, obesity, history of prior venous thromboembolism, risk factors for venous thromboembolism, and recent pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jillian T Henderson
- Evidence-based Practice Center, Kaiser Permanente, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Megan A Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Robin Paynter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Alison Edelman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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MacArthur TA, Goswami J, Ramachandran D, Price-Troska TL, Lundell KA, Ballinger BA, Loomis EA, Heller SF, Stephens D, Hurt RT, Salonen BR, Ganesh R, Spears GM, Bailey KR, Chaudry IH, Park MS. Estradiol and Dihydrotestosterone Levels in COVID-19 Patients. Mayo Clin Proc 2023; 98:559-568. [PMID: 36872195 PMCID: PMC9842620 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2022.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine differences in plasma sex hormone levels in male and female coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients and healthy volunteers (HVs) because cell entry of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 occurs via the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor which is downregulated by 17β-estradiol. PATIENTS AND METHODS Citrated plasma samples were collected from 101 patients with COVID-19 upon presentation to the emergency department and from 40 HVs between November 1, 2020, and May 30, 2021. Plasma 17β-estradiol and 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (pg/mL). Data are presented as median and quartiles (IQR). Wilcoxon rank sum test with a P value less than .05 was considered significant. RESULTS Patients with COVID-19 (median age, 49 years) included 51 males and 50 females (25 postmenopausal). Hospital admission was required for 58.8% of male patients (n = 30) and 48.0% of female patients (n = 24) (66.7% postmenopausal, n = 16) Healthy volunteers (median age, 41 years) included 20 males and 20 females (9 postmenopausal). Female patients with COVID-19 were found to have decreased 17β-estradiol levels (18.5 [IQR, 10.5-32.3] pg/mL; 41.4 [IQR, 15.5-111.0] pg/mL, P=.025), and lower 17β-estradiol to DHT ratios (0.073 [IQR, 0.052-0.159] pg/mL; 0.207 [IQR, 0.104-0.538] pg/mL, P=.015) than female HVs. Male patients with COVID-19 were found to have decreased DHT levels (302.8 [IQR, 249.9-470.8] pg/mL; 457.2 [IQR, 368.7-844.3] pg/mL, P=.005), compared with male HVs. Levels of DHT did not differ between female patients with COVID-19 and female HVs, whereas 17β-estradiol levels did not differ between male patients with COVID-19 and male HVs. CONCLUSION Sex hormone levels differ between patients with COVID-19 and HVs, with sex-specific patterns of hypogonadism in males and females. These alterations may be associated with disease development and severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taleen A MacArthur
- Trauma, Critical Care, and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Julie Goswami
- Trauma, Critical Care, and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Division of Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Dhanya Ramachandran
- Trauma, Critical Care, and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Kaitlin A Lundell
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Neuroscience Research, Allina Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Beth A Ballinger
- Trauma, Critical Care, and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Erica A Loomis
- Trauma, Critical Care, and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Stephanie F Heller
- Trauma, Critical Care, and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Daniel Stephens
- Trauma, Critical Care, and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Ryan T Hurt
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Bradley R Salonen
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Ravindra Ganesh
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Grant M Spears
- Clinical Statistics and Biostatistics, Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Kent R Bailey
- Clinical Statistics and Biostatistics, Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Irshad H Chaudry
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Myung S Park
- Trauma, Critical Care, and General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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20
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Cheema HA, Rehman AU, Elrashedy AA, Mohsin A, Shahid A, Ehsan M, Ayyan M, Ismail H, Almas T. Antiandrogens for the treatment of COVID-19 patients: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28740. [PMID: 37185842 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Antiandrogens may carry a potential benefit as a therapeutic agent against COVID-19. However, studies have been yielding mixed results, thus hindering any objective recommendations. This necessitates a quantitative synthesis of data to quantify the benefits of antiandrogens. We systematically searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, clinical trial registers, and reference lists of included studies to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Results from the trials were pooled using a random-effects model and outcomes were reported as risk ratios (RR) and mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Fourteen RCTs with a total sample size of 2593 patients were included. Antiandrogens yielded a significant mortality benefit (RR 0.37; 95% CI; 0.25-0.55). However, on subgroup analysis, only proxalutamide/enzalutamide and sabizabulin were found to significantly reduce mortality (RR 0.22, 95% CI: 0.16-0.30 and RR 0.42, 95% CI: 0.26-0.68, respectively), while aldosterone receptor antagonists and antigonadotropins did not show any benefit. No significant between-group difference was found in the early or late initiation of therapy. Antiandrogens also reduced hospitalizations and the duration of hospital stay, and improved recovery rates. Proxalutamide and sabizabulin may be effective against COVID-19, however, further large-scale trials are needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huzaifa Ahmad Cheema
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Aqeeb Ur Rehman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Aleenah Mohsin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Abia Shahid
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ehsan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ayyan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Heba Ismail
- Department of Internal Medicine, Limerick University Hospital, Limerick, Ireland
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21
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Lott N, Gebhard CE, Bengs S, Haider A, Kuster GM, Regitz-Zagrosek V, Gebhard C. Sex hormones in SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility: key players or confounders? Nat Rev Endocrinol 2023; 19:217-231. [PMID: 36494595 PMCID: PMC9734735 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-022-00780-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has a clear sex disparity in clinical outcomes. Hence, the interaction between sex hormones, virus entry receptors and immune responses has attracted major interest as a target for the prevention and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infections. This Review summarizes the current understanding of the roles of androgens, oestrogens and progesterone in the regulation of virus entry receptors and disease progression of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as well as their therapeutic value. Although many experimental and clinical studies have analysed potential mechanisms by which female sex hormones might provide protection against SARS-CoV-2 infectivity, there is currently no clear evidence for a sex-specific expression of virus entry receptors. In addition, reports describing an influence of oestrogen, progesterone and androgens on the course of COVID-19 vary widely. Current data also do not support the administration of oestradiol in COVID-19. The conflicting evidence and lack of consensus results from a paucity of mechanistic studies and clinical trials reporting sex-disaggregated data. Further, the influence of variables beyond biological factors (sex), such as sociocultural factors (gender), on COVID-19 manifestations has not been investigated. Future research will have to fill this knowledge gap as the influence of sex and gender on COVID-19 will be essential to understanding and managing the long-term consequences of this pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Lott
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | | | - Susan Bengs
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Ahmed Haider
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gabriela M Kuster
- Department of Cardiology and Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Vera Regitz-Zagrosek
- Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Catherine Gebhard
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland.
- Department of Cardiology, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland.
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22
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Qaderi K, Hosseinirad H, Kalhor M, Zangeneh S, Pournaghi M, Khodavirdilou R, Keshavarz M, Eghdampour F, Mirmolaei ST, Jesmani Y, Barjasteh S, Mallah MA, Shamsabadi A. The relationship between sex steroids (E2, progesterone, and AMH) levels and severity and fatality of COVID-19: A systematic review. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14218. [PMID: 36873532 PMCID: PMC9974207 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14218] [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: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex steroids are powerful modulators of the immune system and they may affect the immune response and inflammatory consequences of COVID-19. This systematic review aims to explore the impact of sex steroids on COVID-19 mortality and complications. We looked up the keywords of the study in Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science. All related original articles published in English, as of October 16, 2021, were reviewed to be included in our research. Concerns regarding the effect of sex hormones on COVID-19, eight full texts have been identified for the conclusion. In these studies, the relationship between estradiol and COVID-19 mortality has been mentioned. The most significant findings were the higher COVID-19 mortality rate in men, compared to women; also, in menopausal women compared to younger women and who received estradiol. In two studies, oral contraceptive pills had a protective effect on the morbidity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In a randomized controlled trial, subcutaneous injection of progesterone in hospitalized men significantly reduced their symptoms and need for oxygen therapy. Hormone replacement therapy was positively associated with reducing COVID-19 symptoms. Although the results were insufficient for a conclusion, this study represents estrogen as an appropriate pharmacological method for preventing and diminishing the inflammation related to COVID-19 disease. However, future prospective studies and clinical trials are needed to clarify and approve this protective effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kowsar Qaderi
- PhD in Reproductive Health, Midwifery Department, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinirad
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehri Kalhor
- PhD in Reproductive Health, Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sanaz Zangeneh
- Midwifery and Reproductive Health Department, Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Marjaneh Pournaghi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Rasa Khodavirdilou
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Keshavarz
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Seyedeh Tahereh Mirmolaei
- Department of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, Nursing and Midwifery School, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Younes Jesmani
- Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Samira Barjasteh
- Reproductive Health Researcher Center, Clinical Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Manthar Ali Mallah
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Ave, Zhongyuan District, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Ahmadreza Shamsabadi
- Department of Health Information Technology, Esfarayen Faculty of Medical Science, Esfarayen, Iran
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23
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Björsell T, Sundh J, Lange A, Ahlm C, Forsell MNE, Tevell S, Blomberg A, Edin A, Normark J, Cajander S. Risk factors for impaired respiratory function post COVID-19: A prospective cohort study of nonhospitalized and hospitalized patients. J Intern Med 2023; 293:600-614. [PMID: 36815689 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe COVID-19 increases the risk for long-term respiratory impairment, but data after mild COVID-19 are scarce. Our aims were to determine risk factors for reduced respiratory function 3-6 months after COVID-19 infection and to investigate if reduced respiratory function would relate to impairment of exercise performance and breathlessness. METHODS Patients with COVID-19 were enrolled at the University Hospitals of Umeå and Örebro, and Karlstad Central Hospital, Sweden. Disease severity was defined as mild (nonhospitalized), moderate (hospitalized with or without oxygen treatment), and severe (intensive care). Spirometry, including diffusion capacity (DLCO ), was performed 3-6 months after hospital discharge or study enrollment (for nonhospitalized patients). Breathlessness (defined as ≥1 according to the modified Medical Research Council scale) and functional exercise capacity (1-min sit-to-stand test; 1-MSTST) were assessed. RESULTS Between April 2020 and May 2021, 337 patients were enrolled in the study. Forced vital capacity and DLCO were significantly lower in patients with severe COVID-19. Among hospitalized patients, 20% had reduced DLCO , versus 4% in nonhospitalized. Breathlessness was found in 40.6% of the participants and was associated with impaired DLCO . A pathological desaturation or heart rate response was observed in 17% of participants during the 1-MSTST. However, this response was not associated with reduced DLCO . CONCLUSION Reduced DLCO was the major respiratory impairment 3-6 months following COVID-19, with hospitalization as the most important risk factor. The lack of association between impaired DLCO and pathological physiological responses to exertion suggests that these physiological responses are not primarily related to decreased lung function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tove Björsell
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Karlstad Hospital, Karlstad, Sweden.,Centre for Clinical Research and Education, Region Värmland, Karlstad, Sweden.,Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Josefin Sundh
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Anna Lange
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Clas Ahlm
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Staffan Tevell
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Karlstad Hospital, Karlstad, Sweden.,Centre for Clinical Research and Education, Region Värmland, Karlstad, Sweden.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Anders Blomberg
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Alicia Edin
- Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Department of Surgical and Perioperative Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Johan Normark
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Sara Cajander
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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24
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Viana MC, Curty G, Furtado C, Singh B, Bendall ML, Viola JPB, de Melo AC, Soares MA, Moreira MAM. Naso-oropharyngeal microbiome from breast cancer patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Front Microbiol 2023; 13:1074382. [PMID: 36713167 PMCID: PMC9874304 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1074382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to immunosuppressive cancer therapies, cancer patients diagnosed with COVID-19 have a higher chance of developing severe symptoms and present a higher mortality rate in comparison to the general population. Here we show a comparative analysis of the microbiome from naso-oropharyngeal samples of breast cancer patients with respect to SARS-CoV-2 status and identified bacteria associated with symptom severity. Total DNA of naso-oropharyngeal swabs from 74 women with or without breast cancer, positive or negative for SARS-CoV-2 were PCR-amplified for 16S-rDNA V3 and V4 regions and submitted to massive parallel sequencing. Sequencing data were analyzed with QIIME2 and taxonomic identification was performed using the q2-feature-classifier QIIME2 plugin, the Greengenes Database, and amplicon sequence variants (ASV) analysis. A total of 486 different bacteria were identified. No difference was found in taxa diversity between sample groups. Cluster analysis did not group the samples concerning SARS-CoV-2 status, breast cancer diagnosis, or symptom severity. Three taxa (Pseudomonas, Moraxella, and Klebsiella,) showed to be overrepresented in women with breast cancer and positive for SARS-CoV-2 when compared to the other women groups, and five bacterial groups were associated with COVID-19 severity among breast cancer patients: Staphylococcus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Scardovia, Parasegitibacter luogiensis, and Thermomonas. The presence of Staphylococcus in COVID-19 breast cancer patients may possibly be a consequence of nosocomial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carolina Viana
- Tumor Genetics and Virology Program, Instituto Nacional de Câncer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gislaine Curty
- Tumor Genetics and Virology Program, Instituto Nacional de Câncer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carolina Furtado
- Tumor Genetics and Virology Program, Instituto Nacional de Câncer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bhavya Singh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Matthew L. Bendall
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - João P. B. Viola
- Program of Immunology and Tumor Biology, Instituto Nacional de Câncer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Andreia Cristina de Melo
- Division of Clinical Research and Technological Development, Instituto Nacional de Câncer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcelo A. Soares
- Tumor Genetics and Virology Program, Instituto Nacional de Câncer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Miguel A. M. Moreira
- Tumor Genetics and Virology Program, Instituto Nacional de Câncer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,*Correspondence: Miguel A. M. Moreira,
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25
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Cohen MA, Edelman A, Paynter R, Henderson JT. Risk of thromboembolism in patients with COVID-19 who are using hormonal contraception. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 1:CD014908. [PMID: 36622724 PMCID: PMC9829026 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd014908.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has led to significant mortality and morbidity, including a high incidence of related thrombotic events. There has been concern regarding hormonal contraception use during the COVID-19 pandemic, as this is an independent risk factor for thrombosis, particularly with estrogen-containing formulations. However, higher estrogen levels may be protective against severe COVID-19 disease. Evidence for risks of hormonal contraception use during the COVID-19 pandemic is sparse. We therefore conducted a living systematic review that will be updated as new data emerge on the risk of thromboembolism with hormonal contraception use in patients with COVID-19. OBJECTIVES To determine if use of hormonal contraception increases risk of venous and arterial thromboembolism in women with COVID-19. To determine if use of hormonal contraception increases other markers of COVID-19 severity including hospitalization in the intensive care unit, acute respiratory distress syndrome, intubation, and mortality. A secondary objective is to maintain the currency of the evidence, using a living systematic review approach. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, LILACS, Global Health, and Scopus from inception to search update in March 2022. For the living systematic review, we monitored the literature monthly. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all published and ongoing studies of patients with COVID-19 comparing outcomes of those on hormonal contraception versus those not on hormonal contraception. This included case series and non-randomized studies of interventions (NRSI). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS One review author extracted study data and this was checked by a second author. Two authors individually assessed risk of bias for the comparative studies using the ROBINS-I tool and a third author helped reconcile differences. For the living systematic review, we will publish updates to our synthesis every six months. In the event that we identify a study with a more rigorous study design than the current included evidence prior to the planned six-month update, we will expedite the synthesis publication. MAIN RESULTS We included three comparative NRSIs with 314,704 participants total and two case series describing 13 patients. The three NRSIs had serious to critical risk of bias in several domains and low study quality. Only one NRSI ascertained current use of contraceptives based on patient report; the other two used diagnostic codes within medical records to assess hormonal contraception use, but did not confirm current use nor indication for use. None of the NRSIs included thromboembolism as an outcome. Studies were not similar enough in terms of their outcomes, interventions, and study populations to combine with meta-analyses. We therefore narratively synthesized all included studies. Based on results from one NRSI, there may be little to no effect of combined hormonal contraception use on odds of mortality for COVID-19 positive patients (odds ratio (OR) 1.00, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41 to 2.40; 1 study, 18,892 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Two NRSIs examined hospitalization rates for hormonal contraception users versus non-users. Based on results from one NRSI, the odds of hospitalization for COVID-19 positive combined hormonal contraception users may be slightly decreased compared with non-users for patients with body mass index (BMI) under 35 kg/m2 (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.97; 1 study, 295,689 participants; very low-certainty evidence). According to results of the other NRSI assessing use of any type of hormonal contraception, there may be little to no effect on hospitalization rates for COVID-19 positive individuals (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.44; 1 study, 123 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We included two case series because no comparative studies directly assessed thromboembolism as an outcome. In a case series of six pediatric COVID-19 positive patients with pulmonary embolism, one (older than 15 years of age) was using combined hormonal contraception. In a second case series of seven COVID-19 positive patients with cerebral venous thrombosis, one was using oral contraceptives. One comparative study and one case series reported on intubation rates, but the evidence for both is very uncertain. In the comparative study of 123 COVID-19 positive patients (N = 44 using hormonal contraception and N = 79 not using hormonal contraception), no patients in either group required intubation. In the case series of seven individuals with cerebral venous thromboembolism, one oral contraceptive user and one non-user required intubation. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There are no comparative studies assessing risk of thromboembolism in COVID-19 patients who use hormonal contraception, which was the primary objective of this review. Very little evidence exists examining the risk of increased COVID-19 disease severity for combined hormonal contraception users compared to non-users of hormonal contraception, and the evidence that does exist is of very low certainty. The odds of hospitalization for COVID-19 positive users of combined hormonal contraceptives may be slightly decreased compared with those of hormonal contraceptive non-users, but the evidence is very uncertain as this is based on one study restricted to patients with BMI under 35 kg/m2. There may be little to no effect of combined hormonal contraception use on odds of intubation or mortality among COVID-19 positive patients, and little to no effect of using any type of hormonal contraception on odds of hospitalization and intubation for COVID-19 patients. At a minimum, we noted no large effect for risk of increased COVID-19 disease severity among hormonal contraception users. We specifically noted gaps in pertinent data collection regarding hormonal contraception use such as formulation, hormone doses, and duration or timing of contraceptive use. Differing estrogens may have different thrombogenic potential given differing potency, so it would be important to know if a formulation contained, for example, ethinyl estradiol versus estradiol valerate. Additionally, we downgraded several studies for risk of bias because information on the timing of contraceptive use relative to COVID-19 infection and method adherence were not ascertained. No studies reported indication for hormonal contraceptive use, which is important as individuals who use hormonal management for medical conditions like heavy menstrual bleeding might have different risk profiles compared to individuals using hormones for contraception. Future studies should focus on including pertinent confounders like age, obesity, history of prior venous thromboembolism, risk factors for venous thromboembolism, and recent pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan A Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Alison Edelman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Robin Paynter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Jillian T Henderson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Evidence-based Practice Center, Kaiser Permanente, Portland, Oregon, USA
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26
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Yassin A, Sabsigh R, Al‐Zoubi RM, Aboumarzouk OM, Alwani M, Nettleship J, Kelly D. Testosterone and Covid-19: An update. Rev Med Virol 2023; 33:e2395. [PMID: 36056748 PMCID: PMC9537909 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
There is overwhelming evidence to suggest that male gender is at a higher risk of developing more severe Covid-19 disease and thus having poorer clinical outcomes. However, the relationship between testosterone (T) and Covid-19 remains unclear with both protective and deleterious effects on different aspects of the disease suggested. Here, we review the current epidemiological and biological evidence on the role of testosterone in the process of SARS-CoV-2 infection and in mediating Covid-19 severity, its potential to serve as a biomarker for risk stratification and discuss the possibility of T supplementation as a treatment or preventative therapy for Covid-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aksam Yassin
- Surgical Research SectionHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
- Center of Medicine and Health SciencesDresden International UniversityDresdenGermany
| | - Ridwan Sabsigh
- Department of SurgerySt. Barnabas HospitalBronxNew YorkUSA
- Department of UrologyCornell UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Raed M. Al‐Zoubi
- Surgical Research SectionHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
- Department of ChemistryJordan University of Science and TechnologyIrbidJordan
| | - Omar M. Aboumarzouk
- Surgical Research SectionHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
- College of MedicineQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- College of MedicineUniversity of GlasgowGlasgowUK
| | - Mustafa Alwani
- Surgical Research SectionHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
| | - Joanne Nettleship
- Department of Oncology and MetabolismMedical SchoolUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldUK
| | - Daniel Kelly
- Department of Oncology and MetabolismMedical SchoolUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldUK
- Biomolecular Research CentreSheffield Hallam UniversitySheffieldUK
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Shapiro JR, Roberts CW, Arcovio K, Reade L, Klein SL, Dhakal S. Effects of Biological Sex and Pregnancy on SARS-CoV-2 Pathogenesis and Vaccine Outcomes. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2023; 441:75-110. [PMID: 37695426 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-35139-6_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is the causative agent of COVID-19 in humans and has resulted in the death of millions of people worldwide. Similar numbers of infections have been documented in males and females; males, however, are more likely than females to be hospitalized, require intensive care unit, or die from COVID-19. The mechanisms that account for this are multi-factorial and are likely to include differential expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 molecules that are required for viral entry into hosts cells and sex differences in the immune response, which are due to modulation of cellular functions by sex hormones and differences in chromosomal gene expression. Furthermore, as comorbidities are also associated with poorer outcomes to SARS-CoV-2 infection and several comorbidities are overrepresented in males, these are also likely to contribute to the observed sex differences. Despite their relative better prognosis following infection with SARS-CoV-2, females do have poorer outcomes during pregnancy. This is likely to be due to pregnancy-induced changes in the immune system that adversely affect viral immunity and disruption of the renin-angiotensin system. Importantly, vaccination reduces the severity of disease in males and females, including pregnant females, and there is no evidence that vaccination has any adverse effects on the outcomes of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna R Shapiro
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Craig W Roberts
- Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Kasandra Arcovio
- Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Lisa Reade
- Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Sabra L Klein
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Santosh Dhakal
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA.
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Stipp MC, Corso CR, Acco A. Impacts of COVID-19 in Breast Cancer: From Molecular Mechanism to the Treatment Approach. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2023; 24:238-252. [PMID: 35593354 DOI: 10.2174/1389201023666220421133311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has already infected more than 272 million people, resulting in 5.3 million deaths worldwide from COVID-19. Breast tumors are considered the world's most commonly diagnosed cancer. Both breast cancer and COVID-19 share common pathogenic features, represented by inflammatory mediators and the potential of SARS-CoV-2 replication in metastatic cancer cells. This may intensify viral load in patients, thereby triggering severe COVID-19 complications. Thus, cancer patients have a high risk of developing severe COVID-19 with SARS-CoV-2 infection and a higher rate of complications and death than non-cancer patients. The present review discusses common mechanisms between COVID-19 and breast cancer and the particular susceptibility to COVID-19 in breast cancer patients. We describe the effects of chemotherapeutic agents that are used against this cancer, which should be considered from the perspective of susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection and risk of developing severe events. We also present potential drug interactions between chemotherapies that are used to treat breast cancer and drugs that are applied for COVID-19. The drugs that are identified as having the most interactions are doxorubicin and azithromycin. Both drugs can interact with each other and with other drugs, which likely requires additional drug monitoring and changes in drug dosage and timing of administration. Further clinical and observational studies involving breast cancer patients who acquire COVID-19 are needed to define the best therapeutic approach when considering the course of both diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carolina Stipp
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | - Alexandra Acco
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Brazil
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Albeitawi S, Al-Alami ZM, Hamadneh J, Alqam H, Qublan H, Al Natsheh M. COVID-19 infection and vaccine have no impact on in-vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21702. [PMID: 36522363 PMCID: PMC9753879 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25757-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate the effect of COVID-19 infection or vaccine on IVF outcome. This is a multicenter retrospective study. Data were collected from all patients treated in the ART units between September and November 2021 after the vaccination of the general population began. Medical records of all patients who had IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were categorized into four groups: previously infected by COVID-19, vaccinated by COVID vaccine, previously infected and vaccinated, or neither infected nor vaccinated. Total number of participants 151 (vaccinated only 66, infected only 18, vaccinated and previously infected 34, and control 33. Outcomes (ET on day of trigger, number of oocytes retrieved, quality of oocytes, number of fertilized oocytes, number and quality of embryos, number of embryos transferred, number of embryos frozen, implantation rate and clinical pregnancy rate) were compared between these four groups. Moreover, we compared the outcome before and post infection, as well as before and post vaccine in a group of patients. No evidence was found to suggest that COVID-19 disease or SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine adversely affects Clinical pregnancy rates (positive fetal heartbeat) (OR 0.9, CI 0.5-1.9, OR 1.8, CI 0.9-3.6, respectively) and the following parameters: fertilization rate, implantation rate, positive bHcg) (OR 0.9, CI 0.5-1.8, OR 1.5, CI 0.7-2.9, respectively). Although a limitation of our study is the small comparison groups, and the wide confidence intervals in the Odds Ratio estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soha Albeitawi
- grid.14440.350000 0004 0622 5497Clinical Science Department, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, P.O.Box: 566, Irbid, 21163 Jordan
| | - Zina M. Al-Alami
- grid.116345.40000000406441915Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Jehan Hamadneh
- grid.37553.370000 0001 0097 5797Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Hiba Alqam
- grid.14440.350000 0004 0622 5497Clinical Science Department, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, P.O.Box: 566, Irbid, 21163 Jordan
| | - Hussein Qublan
- Irbid Specialty Hospital IVF Center, Irbid Specialty Hospital, Irbid, Jordan
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Widysanto A, Prasetya IB, Meriyanti T, Sungono V, Setiawan DL, Gunawan E, Adiputra B, Lorens JO, Santi T, Pradhana CML, Yusuf I, Gunawan C. The risk factors of SARS-CoV-2 antibody level differences in healthcare workers post vaccination in Siloam hospitals: A nationwide multicenter study. INFECTIOUS MEDICINE 2022; 1:229-235. [PMID: 38013914 PMCID: PMC9581641 DOI: 10.1016/j.imj.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Background Several vaccines have been approved against COVID-19, and 5 have been used in Indonesia. Due to the decrease in antibody levels 3 to 6 months after the second dose of CoronaVac, healthcare workers received the third booster of mRNA vaccine (mRNA-1273) to increase the antibody level. This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors of anti-S-RBD IgG levels differences in healthcare workers. Methods This study is a retrospective cohort study of 576 healthcare workers without previous SARS-CoV-2 infection who received 2 doses of CoronaVac and the third dose of mRNA-1273 6 months after the second dose. Blood samples were obtained 2nd, 6th, 12th, and 24th weeks after the second dose of CoronaVac vaccine administration, with mRNA-1273 booster on week 20. Quantitative measurements of IgG antibodies were performed with Elecsys Anti-SARS-CoV-2 S immunoassay. We identify the baseline factors predicting post-vaccination antibody titers using univariate and multivariate linear regression analysis. Results This study comprised 576 participants aged 32 years old, 72.05% female, and 45.84% from high-risk occupation subgroups. The median antibodies titer level on the 2nd, 6th, 12th, and 24th weeks after the second vaccine dose administration were 40.99 u/mL, 42.01 u/mL, 54.78 u/mL, and 23,225 u/mL. Antibody levels trended highest in female and younger age group (20-29 years old). Conclusions The third dose of vaccine increased the quantitative SARS-CoV-2 spike IgG antibody titers and eliminated differences in antibodies titer by gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen Widysanto
- Siloam Hospitals Lippo Village, Banten, Indonesia
- Faculty of Medicine, Pelita Harapan University, Banten, Indonesia
| | - Ignatius Bima Prasetya
- Siloam Hospitals Lippo Village, Banten, Indonesia
- Faculty of Medicine, Pelita Harapan University, Banten, Indonesia
| | | | - Veli Sungono
- Faculty of Medicine, Pelita Harapan University, Banten, Indonesia
| | | | - Edy Gunawan
- Clinical Research Department Siloam Hospitals Group, Banten, Indonesia
| | - Bayu Adiputra
- Clinical Research Department Siloam Hospitals Group, Banten, Indonesia
| | | | | | | | - Irawan Yusuf
- Mochtar Riady Institute for Nanotechnology, Banten, Indonesia
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Ferraro JJ, Reynolds A, Edoigiawerie S, Seu MY, Horen SR, Aminzada A, Hamidian Jahromi A. Impact of gender-affirming hormone therapy on the development of COVID-19 infections and associated complications: A systematic review. World J Methodol 2022; 12:465-475. [PMID: 36479311 PMCID: PMC9720351 DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v12.i6.465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can produce a wide range of clinical manifestations from asymptomatic to life-threatening. Various researchers have worked to elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms underlying these variable presentations. Differences in individual responses to systemic inflammation and coagulopathy appear to be modulated by several factors, including sex steroid hormones. Transgender men or non-binary individuals who undergo gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) are a unique population of interest for exploring the androgen-mediated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) hypothesis. As the search for reliable and effective COVID-19 treatments continues, understanding the risks and benefits of GAHT may mitigate COVID-19 related morbidity and mortality in this patient population. AIM To investigate the potential role of GAHT in the development of COVID-19 infections and complications. METHODS This systematic review implemented an algorithmic approach using PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar top 100 results, and archives of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery was on January 12, 2022 using the key words "gender" AND "hormone" AND "therapy" AND "COVID-19" as well as associated terms. Non-English articles, articles published prior to 2019 (prior to COVID-19), and manuscripts in the form of reviews, commentaries, or letters were excluded. References of the selected publications were screened as well. RESULTS The database search resulted in the final inclusion of 14 studies related to GAHT COVID-19. Of the included studies, only two studies directly involved and reported on COVID-19 in transgender patients. Several clinical trials looked at the relationship between testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone in COVID-19 infected cis-gender men and women. It has been proposed that androgens may facilitate initial COVID-19 infection, however, once this occurs, testosterone may have a protective effect. Multiple clinical studies have shown that low baseline testosterone levels in men with COVID-19 are associated with worsening outcomes. The role of female sex hormones, including estrogen and progesterone have also been proposed as potential protective factors in COVID-19 infection. This was exemplified in multiple studies investigating different outcomes in pre- and post-menopausal women as well as those taking hormone replacement therapy. Two studies related specifically to transgender patients and GAHT found that estrogen and progesterone could help protect men against COVID-19, and that testosterone hormone therapy may increase the risk of contracting COVID-19. CONCLUSION Few studies were found related to the role of GAHT in COVID-19 infections. Additional research is necessary to enhance our understanding of this relationship and provide better care for transgender patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer J Ferraro
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Allie Reynolds
- Undergraduate Studies, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, United States
| | - Sylvia Edoigiawerie
- Medical School, The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60637, United States
| | - Michelle Y Seu
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Sydney R Horen
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Amir Aminzada
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Alireza Hamidian Jahromi
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, PA 19140, United States
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Farag FA, Bluhm MDL, Barnawi N, Gouda ADK. Stressors and Coping Strategies among Menopausal Women during COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.9795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Menopause is one of the women’s lifespan conditions that increases the potentiality of developing multiple physical and psychological diseases. Thus, it exposes the women to many fears and pressures, mainly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to assess stressors and coping strategies among Egyptian menopausal women during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was used to identify the associated menopause complaints stressors and the types of coping strategies among 126 university working women ages 40 to 60. Three tools were used: the demographic-characteristic, menopause rating scale, and coping with menopause symptoms questionnaires. Results: The most prevalent complaints were psychological stressors with a mean of 88.8 (70.5%), where fear of infection and death by COVID-19 was the most common problem (87.3%). Further, the most coping technique used by participants was protective measures with a mean of 82.2 (65.2%). There is a highly significant difference (p=0.001) with all coping strategies based on the women’s menopausal status. Conclusion and recommendations: The COVID-19 pandemic with menopause represents a significant burden on women at a critical time of their lives. Based on the results, it is essential to address the effectiveness of highly competent nursing care and support that includes effective coping strategies. Establishing and adopting nursing care guidelines that deal with stress and caring during this pandemic is highly recommended.
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33
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Ojo AS, Ojukwu S, Asmare W, Odipe O, Larbi D. Intravenous Fluid Administration and the Risk of Adverse Outcomes in Sickle Cell Disease Patients Hospitalized for Vaso-Occlusive Crisis. J Hematol 2022; 11:159-166. [PMID: 36406833 PMCID: PMC9635800 DOI: 10.14740/jh1058] [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: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) is the leading cause of hospitalization in sickle cell disease (SCD). Intravenous fluid (IVF) administration is the usual practice during VOC episodes to slow the sickling process. In the absence of an evidence-based, clear-cut consensus on the optimal choice, route, and rate of fluid administration, there has been a wide variability in the practice of IVF administration in the treatment of VOC. However, there are growing concerns about the safety of this practice. This systematic review summarized the current evidence on the risk of negative outcomes in SCD patients treated for VOC with IVFs. A database search of Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, Wiley Cochrane Library, Clinicaltrials.gov, and conference proceedings of the European Hematology Association (EHA) and American Society of Hematology (ASH) were performed. The results were presented using narrative analysis of quantitative data. Of the 2,821 identified records, a total of three eligible retrospective cohort studies with a total demographic population of 549 SCD patients were included in this review. Normal saline, a frequently used IVF for VOC may be associated with adverse outcomes such as poor pain control and volume overload. Volume overload, new oxygen requirement, acute chest syndrome, and acute kidney injury are potential adverse outcomes of inappropriate IVF use in VOC. There is limited evidence supporting the current practice of IVF use in VOC. Randomized controlled trials are required to fully clarify the place and safety of IVF in the management of VOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ademola S. Ojo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Howard University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA,Corresponding Author: Ademola S. Ojo, Department of Internal Medicine, Howard University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Somtochukwu Ojukwu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Howard University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Wassihun Asmare
- Department of Internal Medicine, Howard University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Oluwamayowa Odipe
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Queen’s Medical Center, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Daniel Larbi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Howard University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
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Premenopausal and postmenopausal women during the COVID-19 pandemic. PRZEGLAD MENOPAUZALNY = MENOPAUSE REVIEW 2022; 21:200-206. [PMID: 36254124 PMCID: PMC9551364 DOI: 10.5114/pm.2022.118695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The current global COVID-19 mortality rate is estimated to be around 3.4%; however, it is dependent on age, sex, and comorbidities. Epidemiological evidence shows gender disparities in COVID-19 severity and fatality, with non-menopausal females having milder severity and better outcomes than age-matched males. However, the difference vanishes when comparing postmenopausal women with age-matched men. It has been suggested that, to some extent, this is due to the protective role of female hormones, such as anti-Müllerian hormone and oestradiol (E2), in non-menopausal women. Oestrogens have been hypothesized to be crucial in modulating viral infection and the progression of the disease via an action on immune/inflammatory responses and angiotensin-converting enzyme type 2 expression. Hence, the most likely explanation is that, because the levels of oestrogen in females after menopause decrease, oestrogen no longer offers a beneficial effect as seen in younger females. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the serious negative effects arising from the state of E2 deficiency. Therefore, hormone replacement therapy gains further support as the damaging effect of the decline in ovarian function affects many biological systems, and recently with the COVID-19 pandemic, oestrogen's vital role within the immune system has become quite clear. However, additional clinical investigations regarding hormone replacement therapy are urgently needed to further verify the protective and therapeutic effects of E2 on menopausal women with COVID-19.
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Mehta CC, Hagen KS, Rubtsova AA, Lahiri CD, Michopoulos V, Moran CA, Haddad LB, Titanji K, Collins LF, Quyyumi AA, Neigh G, Shaw LJ, Weitzmann MN, Waller L, Ofotokun I. Bone, Brain, Heart study protocol: A resilient nested, tripartite prospective cohort study of the role of estrogen depletion on HIV pathology. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0272608. [PMID: 35921353 PMCID: PMC9348736 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272608] [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: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We describe the rationale for and design of an innovative, nested, tripartite prospective observational cohort study examining whether relative estrogen insufficiency-induced inflammation amplifies HIV-induced inflammation to cause end organ damage and worsen age-related co-morbidities affecting the neuro-hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (Brain), skeletal (Bone), and cardiovascular (Heart/vessels) organ systems (BBH Study). METHODS The BBH parent study is the Multicenter AIDS Cohort/Women's Interagency HIV Study Combined Cohort Study (MWCCS) with participants drawn from the Atlanta MWCCS site. BBH will enroll a single cohort of n = 120 women living with HIV and n = 60 HIV-negative women, equally distributed by menopausal status. The innovative multipart nested study design of BBH, which draws on data collected by the parent study, efficiently leverages resources for maximum research impact and requires extensive oversight and management in addition to careful implementation. The presence of strong infrastructure minimized BBH study disruptions due to changes in the parent study and the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSION BBH is poised to provide insight into sex and HIV associations with the neuro-hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, skeletal, and cardiovascular systems despite several major, unexpected challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Christina Mehta
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Kimberly S. Hagen
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Anna A. Rubtsova
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Cecile D. Lahiri
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
- Grady Infectious Diseases Program, Grady Health System, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Vasiliki Michopoulos
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Caitlin A. Moran
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
- Grady Infectious Diseases Program, Grady Health System, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Lisa B. Haddad
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Kehmia Titanji
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Lauren F. Collins
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
- Grady Infectious Diseases Program, Grady Health System, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Arshed A. Quyyumi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Gretchen Neigh
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States of America
| | - Leslee J. Shaw
- Blavatnik Women’s Health Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - M. Neale Weitzmann
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
- Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Decatur, GA, United States of America
| | - Lance Waller
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Ighovwerha Ofotokun
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
- Grady Infectious Diseases Program, Grady Health System, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
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Ho JQ, Sepand MR, Bigdelou B, Shekarian T, Esfandyarpour R, Chauhan P, Serpooshan V, Beura LK, Hutter G, Zanganeh S. The immune response to COVID-19: Does sex matter? Immunology 2022; 166:429-443. [PMID: 35470422 PMCID: PMC9111683 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has created unprecedented challenges worldwide. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes COVID-19 and has a complex interaction with the immune system, including growing evidence of sex-specific differences in the immune response. Sex-disaggregated analyses of epidemiological data indicate that males experience more severe symptoms and suffer higher mortality from COVID-19 than females. Many behavioural risk factors and biological factors may contribute to the different immune response. This review examines the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection in the context of sex, with emphasis on potential biological mechanisms explaining differences in clinical outcomes. Understanding sex differences in the pathophysiology of SARS-CoV-2 infection will help promote the development of specific strategies to manage the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim Q. Ho
- Department of MedicineAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
| | - Mohammad Reza Sepand
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Massachusetts DartmouthDartmouthMassachusettsUSA
| | - Banafsheh Bigdelou
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Massachusetts DartmouthDartmouthMassachusettsUSA
| | - Tala Shekarian
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity Hospital BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Rahim Esfandyarpour
- Department of Electrical EngineeringUniversity of California IrvineIrvineCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of California IrvineIrvineCaliforniaUSA
| | - Prashant Chauhan
- Laboratory of Functional Biology of Protists, Institute of ParasitologyBiology Centre of the Czech Academy of SciencesČeské BudějoviceCzech Republic
| | - Vahid Serpooshan
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical EngineeringEmory University School of Medicine and Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Lalit K. Beura
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and ImmunologyBrown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - Gregor Hutter
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity Hospital BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Steven Zanganeh
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of Massachusetts DartmouthDartmouthMassachusettsUSA
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Vallejo MS, Blümel JE, Bencosme A, Calle A, Dextre M, Díaz K, López M, Miranda C, Ñañez M, Ojeda E, Rey C, Rodrigues MA, Salinas C, Tserotas K, Pérez-López FR. Factors affecting climacteric women with SARS-CoV-2 infection: A multinational Latin America study (REDLINC XI). Maturitas 2022; 165:33-37. [PMID: 35905570 PMCID: PMC9303064 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2022.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the association between factors, especially those linked to the climacteric, and a history of COVID-19 infection. Methods This was an observational, cross-sectional, and analytical study in which women from ten Latin American countries, aged 40–64, who attended a routine health check-up were invited to participate. A positive history for COVID-19 was based on reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction reports. We evaluated sociodemographic, clinical, lifestyle, anthropometric variables, and menopausal symptoms using the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). Results A total of 1238 women were included for analysis, of whom 304 (24.6 %) had a positive history for COVID-19. The median [interquartile range: IQR] age of participants was 53 [IQR 12] years, duration of formal education was 16 [6] years, body mass index 25.6 [5.1] kg/m2, and total MRS score 10 [13]. In a logistic regression model, factors positively associated with COVID-19 included postmenopausal status and having a family history of dementia (OR: 1.53; 95 % CI: 1.13–2.07, and 2.40; 1.65–3.48, respectively), whereas negatively associated were use of menopausal hormone therapy (current or past), being a housewife, and being nulliparous (OR: 0.47; 95 % CI: 0.30–0.73; 0.72; 0.53–0.97 and 0.56; 0.34–0.92, respectively). Smoking, being sexually active, and use of hypnotics were also factors positively associated with COVID-19. Conclusion Postmenopausal status and a family history of dementia were more frequent among women who had had COVID-19, and the infection was less frequent among current or past menopause hormone therapy users and in those with less physical contact.
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Affiliation(s)
- María S Vallejo
- Clínica Quilín, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Juan E Blümel
- Departamento de Medicina Interna Sur, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile.
| | - Ascanio Bencosme
- Ginecología Obstetricia, Hospital Metropolitano de Santiago, Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic
| | - Andrés Calle
- Centro Integral de Salud Obstétrica y Femenina-CISOF, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Maribel Dextre
- Ginecología Obstetricia, Clínica Internacional-Clínica Javier Prado, Lima, Peru
| | - Karen Díaz
- Centro Ciudad Mujer, Ministerio de Salud, Asunción, Paraguay
| | - Marcela López
- Clínica Alemana y Hospital Militar, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Carlos Miranda
- Hospital Central FAP-Instituto Médico Miraflores, Lima, Peru
| | - Mónica Ñañez
- II Cátedra de Ginecología, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Eliana Ojeda
- Departamento Académico de Medicina Humana, Universidad Andina del Cusco, Cusco, Peru
| | - Claudia Rey
- Medicina Ginecológica Consultorios Médicos, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marcio A Rodrigues
- Department Gynecology and Obstetrics, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | | | - Faustino R Pérez-López
- Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de la Salud, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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Lumish HS, Kim E, Selvaggi C, Cao T, Gupta A, Foulkes AS, Reilly MP. Biomarkers of Cardiac Injury, Renal Injury, and Inflammation Are Strong Mediators of Sex-Associated Death in COVID-19. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:809997. [PMID: 35548417 PMCID: PMC9081502 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.809997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundStudies examining outcomes among individuals with COronaVIrus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) have consistently demonstrated that men have worse outcomes than women, with a higher incidence of myocardial injury, respiratory failure, and death. However, mechanisms of higher morbidity and mortality among men remain poorly understood. We aimed to identify mediators of the relationship between sex and COVID-19-associated mortality.MethodsPatients hospitalized at two quaternary care facilities, New York Presbyterian Hospital (CUIMC/NYPH) and Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), for SARS-CoV-2 infection between February and May 2020 were included. Five independent biomarkers were identified as mediators of sex effects, including high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTNT), high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), ferritin, D-dimer, and creatinine.ResultsIn the CUIMC/NYPH cohort (n = 2,626, 43% female), male sex was associated with significantly greater mortality (26 vs. 21%, p = 0.0146) and higher peak hs-cTNT, hs-CRP, ferritin, D-dimer, and creatinine (p < 0.001). The effect of male sex on the primary outcome of death was partially mediated by peak values of all five biomarkers, suggesting that each pathophysiological pathway may contribute to increased risk of death in men. Hs-cTnT, creatinine, and hs-CRP were the strongest mediators. Findings were highly consistent in the MGH cohort with the exception of D-dimer.ConclusionsThis study suggests that the effect of sex on COVID-19 outcomes is mediated by cardiac and kidney injury, as well as underlying differences in inflammation and iron metabolism. Exploration of these specific pathways may facilitate sex-directed diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients with COVID-19 and provides a framework for the study of sex differences in other complex diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi S. Lumish
- Division of Cardiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Heidi S. Lumish
| | - Eunyoung Kim
- Division of Cardiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Caitlin Selvaggi
- Biostatistics Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Tingyi Cao
- Biostatistics Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Aakriti Gupta
- Division of Interventional Cardiology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Andrea S. Foulkes
- Biostatistics Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Muredach P. Reilly
- Division of Cardiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Irving Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- Muredach P. Reilly
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Mohamed MS, Johansson A, Jonsson J, Schiöth HB. Dissecting the Molecular Mechanisms Surrounding Post-COVID-19 Syndrome and Neurological Features. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:4275. [PMID: 35457093 PMCID: PMC9028501 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084275] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Many of the survivors of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) are suffering from persistent symptoms, causing significant morbidity and decreasing their quality of life, termed "post-COVID-19 syndrome" or "long COVID". Understanding the mechanisms surrounding PCS is vital to developing the diagnosis, biomarkers, and possible treatments. Here, we describe the prevalence and manifestations of PCS, and similarities with previous SARS epidemics. Furthermore, we look at the molecular mechanisms behind the neurological features of PCS, where we highlight important neural mechanisms that may potentially be involved and pharmacologically targeted, such as glutamate reuptake in astrocytes, the role of NMDA receptors and transporters (EAAT2), ROS signaling, astrogliosis triggered by NF-κB signaling, KNDy neurons, and hypothalamic networks involving Kiss1 (a ligand for the G-protein-coupled receptor 54 (GPR54)), among others. We highlight the possible role of reactive gliosis following SARS-CoV-2 CNS injury, as well as the potential role of the hypothalamus network in PCS manifestations.
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Soldevila B, Puig-Domingo M, Marazuela M. Basic mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection. What endocrine systems could be implicated? Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2022; 23:137-150. [PMID: 34333732 PMCID: PMC8325622 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-021-09678-6] [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: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Although SARS-CoV-2 viral attacks starts by the interaction of spike protein (S Protein) to ACE2 receptor located at the cell surface of respiratory tract and digestive system cells, different endocrine targets, endocrine organs and metabolic conditions are of fundamental relevance for understanding disease progression and special outcomes, in particular those of fatal consequences for the patient. During pandemic, moreover, a specific phenotype of COVID-19 metabolic patient has been described, characterized by being at particular risk of worse outcomes. In the present paper we describe the mechanism of viral interaction with endocrine organs, emphasizing the specific endocrine molecules of particular relevance explaining COVID-19 disease evolution and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berta Soldevila
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, Department of Medicine, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute and Hospital, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain
| | - Manel Puig-Domingo
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, Department of Medicine, Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute and Hospital, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain
| | - Mónica Marazuela
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa, Instituto de Investigación de La Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
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Abstract
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is characterized with a wide range of clinical presentations from asymptomatic to severe disease. In patients with severe disease, the main causes of mortality have been acute respiratory distress syndrome, cytokine storm and thrombotic events. Although all factors that may be associated with disease severity are not yet clear, older age remains a leading risk factor. While age-related immune changes may be at the bottom of severe course of COVID-19, age-related hormonal changes have considerable importance due to their interactions with these immune alterations, and also with endothelial dysfunction and comorbid cardiometabolic disorders. This review aims to provide the current scientific evidence on the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the pathway to severe COVID-19, from a collaborative perspective of age-related immune and hormonal changes together, in accordance with the clinical knowledge acquired thus far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda Hanife Oguz
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Meltem Koca
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Bulent Okan Yildiz
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey.
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G.R. Q. The Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic on Reproduction, Sexual Function and Behaviors: A Review of the Main Trends and Findings. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2022; 34:351-365. [PMID: 38596275 PMCID: PMC10903693 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2022.2053921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objective: This review sought to describe the main trends and findings on the SARS-CoV-2 and the pandemic's effect on reproduction (i.e., effects on fertility, reproductive tissue, pregnancy, vertical and sexual transmission) and sexual function and behaviors. Methods: A review was conducted on studies assessing these variables through the Scopus and PubMed databases between the years 2019-2021. Results: Results showed SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and social distancing measures have affected-and in some cases not-different aspects of people's reproductive function, sexual function and behaviors. Conclusions: Suggestions are offered for researchers and professionals focused on future research and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quintana G.R.
- Departamento de Psicología y Filosofía, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales y Jurídicas, Universidad de Tarapacá, Arica, Arica y Parinacota, Chile
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Madendag IC, Madendag Y, Ozdemir AT. COVID-19 disease does not cause ovarian injury in women of reproductive period: An observational before-and-after COVID-19 study. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:153-158. [PMID: 35523708 PMCID: PMC8897265 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Research question Design Results Conclusion
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilknur Col Madendag
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Health Sciences University, Kayseri Medical Faculty City Hospital Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Yusuf Madendag
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erciyes University Medicine Faculty Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ayse Turunc Ozdemir
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Health Sciences University, Kayseri Medical Faculty City Hospital Kayseri, Turkey
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Liu A, Raja xavier J, Singh Y, Brucker SY, Salker MS. Molecular and Physiological Aspects of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Women and Pregnancy. Front Glob Womens Health 2022; 3:756362. [PMID: 35284910 PMCID: PMC8908006 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2022.756362] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Whilst scientific knowledge about SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 is rapidly increasing, much of the effects on pregnant women is still unknown. To accommodate pregnancy, the human endometrium must undergo a physiological transformation called decidualization. These changes encompass the remodeling of endometrial immune cells leading to immunotolerance of the semi-allogenic conceptus as well as defense against pathogens. The angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) plays an important regulatory role in the renin-angiotensin-system (RAS) and has been shown to be protective against comorbidities known to worsen COVID-19 outcomes. Furthermore, ACE2 is also crucial for decidualization and thus for early gestation. An astounding gender difference has been found in COVID-19 with male patients presenting with more severe cases and higher mortality rates. This could be attributed to differences in sex chromosomes, hormone levels and behavior patterns. Despite profound changes in the female body during pregnancy, expectant mothers do not face worse outcomes compared with non-pregnant women. Whereas mother-to-child transmission through respiratory droplets during labor or in the postnatal period is known, another question of in utero transmission remains unanswered. Evidence of placental SARS-CoV-2 infection and expression of viral entry receptors at the maternal-fetal interface suggests the possibility of in utero transmission. SARS-CoV-2 can cause further harm through placental damage, maternal systemic inflammation, and hindered access to health care during the pandemic. More research on the effects of COVID-19 during early pregnancy as well as vaccination and treatment options for gravid patients is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Liu
- Research Institute of Women's Health, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Janet Raja xavier
- Research Institute of Women's Health, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Yogesh Singh
- Research Institute of Women's Health, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sara Y. Brucker
- Research Institute of Women's Health, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Madhuri S. Salker
- Research Institute of Women's Health, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
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Cai Z, Zhong J, Jiang Y, Zhang J. Associations between COVID-19 infection and sex steroid hormones. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:940675. [PMID: 36303865 PMCID: PMC9592769 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.940675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and within a few months of the first outbreak, it was declared a global pandemic by the WHO. The lethal virus SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted through respiratory droplets and enters host cells through angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) receptors. ACE-2 receptors are highly expressed in many tissues, including testes. Therefore, the objective of this study was to summarize the available literature regarding the correlation between sex hormone levels and COVID-19. METHODS The PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were reviewed systematically through August 2022 for studies comparing sex hormone levels between different patient groups: COVID-19 versus no COVID-19, more severe versus less severe COVID-19, and non-survivors versus survivors. Various types of clinical research reporting sex hormone levels, including free testosterone (FT), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), 17β-oestradiol (E2), the oestradiol-to-testosterone ratio (E2/T), prolactin (PRL), and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), were included. Random- or fixed-effects models were used to calculate weighted mean differences (WMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity among the studies was assessed by the I2 index, and data analyses were performed using meta-analysis with Stata version 12.0. RESULTS Twenty-two articles that included 3369 patients were ultimately included in the meta-analysis. According to analysis of the included studies, patients with COVID-19 had significantly low T/LH, FSH/LH, and SHBG levels and high levels of LH, and E2/T, but their levels of FT, FSH, PRL, E2, and progesterone were not affected. Publication bias was not found according to funnel plots and Egger's regression and Begg's rank correlation tests. CONCLUSION Low T/LH, FSH/LH, and SHBG serum levels and high LH, and E2/T levels may increase the risk of COVID-19. Additionally, the greater is the clinical severity of COVID-19, the higher is the probability of increases in LH, and E2/T serum levels and decreases in T/LH, FSH/LH, and SHBG levels. COVID-19 may have unfavourable effects on gonadal functions, which should be taken seriously by clinicians. Routine monitoring of sex hormone levels might help clinicians to evaluate disease severity in patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixin Cai
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiaxin Zhong
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yingling Jiang
- Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Affiliated Zhuzhou Hospital Xiangya Medical College CSU, Zhuzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Key Laboratory of Diabetes Immunology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Jingjing Zhang,
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Hu S, Yin F, Nie L, Wang Y, Qin J, Chen J. Estrogen and Estrogen Receptor Modulators: Potential Therapeutic Strategies for COVID-19 and Breast Cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:829879. [PMID: 35399920 PMCID: PMC8985365 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.829879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Owing to the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, we need to pay a particular focus on the impact of coronavirus infection on breast cancer patients. Approximately 70% of breast cancer patients express estrogen receptor (ER), and intervention therapy for ER has been the primary treatment strategy to prevent the development and metastasis of breast cancer. Recent studies have suggested that selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) are a potential therapeutic strategy for COVID-19. With its anti-ER and anti-viral combined functions, SERMs may be an effective treatment for COVID-19 in patients with breast cancer. In this review, we explore the latent effect of SERMs, especially tamoxifen, and the mechanism between ER and virus susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuying Hu
- Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Receptor-Targeted Drug Basic Research, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Feiying Yin
- Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Receptor-Targeted Drug Basic Research, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Litao Nie
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Yuqin Wang
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Jian Qin
- Department of Radiotherapy III, Clinical Oncology Canter, The People’s Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
- *Correspondence: Jian Qin, ; Jian Chen,
| | - Jian Chen
- Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Receptor-Targeted Drug Basic Research, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
- Breast Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
- *Correspondence: Jian Qin, ; Jian Chen,
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Bolourian A, Shen J, Gharagozloo M, Mojtahedi Z. 1Menstruation: a possible independent health promoter, aging and COVID-19. CASPIAN JOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE 2022; 13:155-160. [PMID: 35872674 PMCID: PMC9272961 DOI: 10.22088/cjim.13.0.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Women live longer than men. Cardiovascular disorders, cancers, and serious infectious conditions are less common among women than men. Recent data also indicate that women, particularly before menopause, are less susceptible to severe COVID-19, a viral infection hitting less-healthy individuals. The superiority of women regarding health has not been completely understood and partly been explained by estradiol beneficial effects on the microenvironment of the body, notably cytokine network. Estradiol cycles are aligned with menstruation cycles, a challenge for distinguishing their individual effects on human health. Large-scale, long-term studies indicate that hysterectomy, particularly at younger ages, is associated with an increased risk of mortality, cancer, or heart disorders. The underlying mechanisms for the increased risk in hysterectomized women are hard to be investigated in animal models since only a few primates menstruate. However, blood exchange models could resemble menstruation and provide some insight into possible beneficial effects of menstruation. Sera from animal models (neutral blood exchange) and also humans that have undergone therapeutic plasma exchange enhance the proliferation of progenitor cells in the culture and contain lower levels of proinflammatory factors. If menstruation resembles a blood exchange model, it can contribute to a healthier cytokine network in women. Consequently, menstruation, independently from estradiol health beneficial effects, can contribute to greater longevity and protection against certain disorders, e.g., COVID-19, in women. Investigation of COVID-19 rate/severity in hysterectomized women will provide insight into the possible beneficial effects of menstruation in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Bolourian
- College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA,Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Jay Shen
- Department of Health Care Administration and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA
| | - Marjan Gharagozloo
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Zahra Mojtahedi
- Department of Health Care Administration and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA,Autophgy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran,Correspondence: Zahra Mojtahedi, Department of Health Care Administration and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA. E-mail: , Tel: 0017028955090, Fax: 0017028955090
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Leach DA, Brooke GN, Bevan CL. Roles of steroid receptors in the lung and COVID-19. Essays Biochem 2021; 65:1025-1038. [PMID: 34328182 PMCID: PMC8628186 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20210005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 symptoms and mortality are largely due to its devastating effects in the lungs. The disease is caused by the SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome)-CoV-2 coronavirus, which requires host cell proteins such as ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) and TMPRSS2 (transmembrane serine protease 2) for infection of lung epithelia. The expression and function of the steroid hormone receptor family is important in many aspects that impact on COVID-19 effects in the lung - notably lung development and function, the immune system, and expression of TMPRSS2 and ACE2. This review provides a brief summary of current knowledge on the roles of the steroid hormone receptors [androgen receptor (AR), glucocorticoid receptor (GR), progesterone receptor (PR), mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) and oestrogen receptor (ER)] in the lung, their effects on host cell proteins that facilitate SARS-CoV-2 uptake, and provides a snapshot of current clinical trials investigating the use of steroid receptor (SR) ligands to treat COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien A. Leach
- Division of Cancer, Imperial Centre for Translational and Experimental Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London W12 0NN, U.K
| | - Greg N. Brooke
- Division of Cancer, Imperial Centre for Translational and Experimental Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London W12 0NN, U.K
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, Essex CO4 3SQ, U.K
| | - Charlotte L. Bevan
- Division of Cancer, Imperial Centre for Translational and Experimental Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London W12 0NN, U.K
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Bengs S, Rossi A, Haberecker M, Mikail N, Meisel A, Haider A, Grämer M, Portmann A, Todorov A, Schönenberger C, Gebhard CE, Kuster GM, Regitz-Zagrosek V, Gebhard C. Immunoreactivity of the SARS-CoV-2 entry proteins ACE-2 and TMPRSS-2 in murine models of hormonal manipulation, ageing, and cardiac injury. Sci Rep 2021; 11:23993. [PMID: 34907257 PMCID: PMC8671541 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03181-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous work indicates that SARS-CoV-2 virus entry proteins angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) and the cell surface transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS-2) are regulated by sex hormones. However, clinical studies addressing this association have yielded conflicting results. We sought to analyze the impact of sex hormones, age, and cardiovascular disease on ACE-2 and TMPRSS-2 expression in different mouse models. ACE-2 and TMPRSS-2 expression was analyzed by immunostaining in a variety of tissues obtained from FVB/N mice undergoing either gonadectomy or sham-surgery and being subjected to ischemia-reperfusion injury or transverse aortic constriction surgery. In lung tissues sex did not have a significant impact on the expression of ACE-2 and TMPRSS-2. On the contrary, following myocardial injury, female sex was associated to a lower expression of ACE-2 at the level of the kidney tubules. In addition, after myocardial injury, a significant correlation between younger age and higher expression of both ACE-2 and TMPRSS-2 was observed for lung alveoli and bronchioli, kidney tubules, and liver sinusoids. Our experimental data indicate that gonadal hormones and biological sex do not alter ACE-2 and TMPRSS-2 expression in the respiratory tract in mice, independent of disease state. Thus, sex differences in ACE-2 and TMPRSS-2 protein expression observed in mice may not explain the higher disease burden of COVID-19 among men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Bengs
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Alexia Rossi
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Martina Haberecker
- Institute of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nidaa Mikail
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Meisel
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Ahmed Haider
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Muriel Grämer
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Angela Portmann
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Atanas Todorov
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Gabriela M Kuster
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedicine, Myocardial Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Vera Regitz-Zagrosek
- Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Catherine Gebhard
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland.
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine II, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Zou P, Heath A, Sewell C, Lu Y, Tran D, Seo SK. EXOGENOUS Sex Hormones and Sex Hormone Receptor Modulators in COVID-19: Rationale and Clinical Pharmacology Considerations. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2021; 111:559-571. [PMID: 34888850 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.2508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Male patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) fare much worse than female patients in COVID-19 severity and mortality according to data from several studies. Because of this sex disparity, researchers hypothesize that the use of exogenous sex hormone therapy and sex hormone receptor modulators might provide therapeutic potential for patients with COVID-19. Repurposing approved drugs or drug candidates at late-stage clinical development could expedite COVID-19 therapy development because their clinical formulation, routes of administration, dosing regimen, clinical pharmacology, and potential adverse events have already been established or characterized in humans. A number of exogenous sex hormones and sex hormone receptor modulators are currently or will be under clinical investigation for COVID-19 therapy. In this review, we discuss the rationale for exogenous sex hormones and sex hormone receptor modulators in COVID-19 treatment, summarize ongoing and planned clinical trials, and discuss some of the clinical pharmacology considerations on clinical study design. To inform clinical study design and facilitate the clinical development of exogenous sex hormones and sex hormone receptor modulators for COVID-19 therapy, clinical investigators should pay attention to clinical pharmacology factors, such as dosing regimen, special populations (i.e., geriatrics, pregnancy, lactation, and renal/hepatic impairment), and drug interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zou
- Division of Cardiometabolic and Endocrine Pharmacology, Office of Clinical Pharmacology, Office of Translational Sciences, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Agiua Heath
- Division of Urology, Obstetrics, and Gynecology, Office of New Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Catherine Sewell
- Division of Urology, Obstetrics, and Gynecology, Office of New Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Yanhui Lu
- Division of Cardiometabolic and Endocrine Pharmacology, Office of Clinical Pharmacology, Office of Translational Sciences, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Doanh Tran
- Division of Cardiometabolic and Endocrine Pharmacology, Office of Clinical Pharmacology, Office of Translational Sciences, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Shirley K Seo
- Division of Cardiometabolic and Endocrine Pharmacology, Office of Clinical Pharmacology, Office of Translational Sciences, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, US Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
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