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Ecarnot F, Maggi S. The impact of the Mediterranean diet on immune function in older adults. Aging Clin Exp Res 2024; 36:117. [PMID: 38780713 PMCID: PMC11116168 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-024-02753-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Diet is one of the lifestyle factors that is most amenable to intervention, and has a substantial effect on the potential for successful aging and mitigation of the risk of disease. Good nutrition is a pillar of healthy aging, and a large body of evidence attests to the benefits of the Mediterranean diet on the quality of the aging process. The Mediterranean diet comprises a wide range of nutrients which, both individually and collectively, exert positive effects on immunity, in large part mediated by the gut microbiota. In this article, we review the effect of the Mediterranean diet on immunity, and how its beneficial effects are mediated by the gut microbiota. We review the effects of certain key components of the Mediterranean dietary pattern, including vitamins, zinc, selenium, and polyphenols. Overall, the existing body of evidence convincingly demonstrates that the Mediterreanean diet affects immune health by maintaining a healthy body weight and reducing the risk of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases; by reducing inflammation and by promoting a healthy gut microbiota profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Ecarnot
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Besançon, Boulevard Fleming, Besançon, 25000, France.
- SINERGIES Research unit, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, 25000, France.
| | - Stefania Maggi
- National Research Council, Neuroscience Institute, Aging Branch, Padova, Italy
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2
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Fujita K, Ocho K, Kadowaki T, Yorifuji T, Hagiya H, Otsuka F. Zinc deficiency is a potential risk factor for COVID-19 progression to pneumonia requiring oxygen therapy. J Infect Chemother 2024:S1341-321X(24)00082-5. [PMID: 38460615 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiac.2024.03.007] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Various risk factors for developing severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported. However, studies on the nutritional-related risk factors are limited. In this study, we investigated the effects of serum zinc deficiency on the severity of COVID-19. METHODS The study included a total of 60 COVID-19 patients who were admitted to Tsuyama Chuo Hospital between March 2020 and April 2021. We divided the patients into two categories based on serum levels of zinc (normal and latent zinc deficiency vs. zinc deficiency [<60 μg/dL]) at the time of diagnosis. Severity of COVID-19 was defined as the most exaggerated disease status during admission. The associations between serum zinc deficiency and the severity of COVID-19 were examined using a logistic regression model adjusted for potential confounders. RESULTS Patients who required oxygen therapy had a higher prevalence of comorbidities and poorer nutritional status, including zinc deficiency, than those who did not require oxygen therapy. Zinc deficiency was associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 severity, with an adjusted odds ratio of 7.29 (95% confidence interval: 1.70-31.18). This result remained significant in the sensitivity analyses conducted after adjusting for patient background factors. CONCLUSIONS Zinc deficiency at the time of COVID-19 diagnosis is an independent risk factor for severe disease. Our findings need to be validated in external studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Fujita
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan; Department of General Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Tsuyama Chuo Hospital, Tsuyama, Japan
| | - Kazuki Ocho
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Tsuyama Chuo Hospital, Tsuyama, Japan
| | - Tomoka Kadowaki
- Department of Epidemiology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Takashi Yorifuji
- Department of Epidemiology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Hideharu Hagiya
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama, Japan
| | - Fumio Otsuka
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan; Department of Infectious Diseases, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama, Japan.
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Ahsan N, Imran M, Mohammed Y, Al Anouti F, Khan MI, Banerjee T, Adnan M, Ashfaq F, Kieliszek M, Ashraf SA, Haq A. Mechanistic Insight into the role of Vitamin D and Zinc in Modulating Immunity Against COVID-19: A View from an Immunological Standpoint. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:5546-5560. [PMID: 36890344 PMCID: PMC9995175 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03620-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
The pathophysiology of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is characterized by worsened inflammation because of weakened immunity, causing the infiltration of immune cells, followed by necrosis. Consequently, these pathophysiological changes may lead to a life-threatening decline in perfusion due to hyperplasia of the lungs, instigating severe pneumonia, and causing fatalities. Additionally, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection can cause mortality due to viral septic shock, resulting from unrestrained and backfiring immune reactions to the pathogen. Sepsis can cause premature organ failure in COVID-19 patients, as well. Notably, vitamin D and its derivatives and minerals, such as zinc and magnesium, have been reported to improve the immune system against respiratory illnesses. This comprehensive review aims to provide updated mechanistic details of vitamin D and zinc as immunomodulators. Additionally, this review also focuses on their role in respiratory illnesses, while specifically delineating the plausibility of employing them as a preventive and therapeutic agent against current and future pandemics from an immunological perspective. Furthermore, this comprehensive review will attract the attention of health professionals, nutritionists, pharmaceuticals, and scientific communities, as it encourages the use of such micronutrients for therapeutic purposes, as well as promoting their health benefits for a healthy lifestyle and wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuzhat Ahsan
- Quantum Biphotonics Division, Quantlase Laboratory LLC, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Mohammad Imran
- Therapeutic Research Group, Frazer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4102, Australia
| | - Yousuf Mohammed
- Therapeutic Research Group, Frazer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4102, Australia
| | - Fatme Al Anouti
- College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Mohammad Idreesh Khan
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, College of Applied Health Sciences in Ar Rass, Qassim University, Ar Rass, 51921, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tanushree Banerjee
- Infosys Ltd. SEZ Unit VI, Plot No. 1, Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi Phase I, Pune, Maharashtra, 57, India
| | - Mohd Adnan
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Ha'il, P.O. Box 2440, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fauzia Ashfaq
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Marek Kieliszek
- Department of Food Biotechnology and Microbiology, Institute of Food Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Nowoursynowska 159 C, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Syed Amir Ashraf
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Ha'il, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia.
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Calder PC. Nutrition and immunity: lessons from coronavirus disease-2019. Proc Nutr Soc 2023:1-16. [PMID: 37886807 DOI: 10.1017/s0029665123004792] [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] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
This review will provide an overview of the immune system and then describe the effects of frailty, obesity, specific micronutrients and the gut microbiota on immunity and susceptibility to infection including data from the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic where relevant. A key role for the immune system is providing host defence against pathogens. Impaired immunity predisposes to infections and to more severe infections and weakens the response to vaccination. A range of nutrients, including many micronutrients, play important roles in supporting the immune system to function. The immune system can decline in later life and this is exaggerated by frailty. The immune system is also weakened with obesity, generalised undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, which all result in increased susceptibility to infection. Findings obtained during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic support what was already known about the effects of ageing, frailty and obesity on immunity and susceptibility to infection. Observational studies conducted during the pandemic also support previous findings that multiple micronutrients including vitamins C, D and E, zinc and selenium and long-chain n-3 fatty acids are important for immune health, but whether these nutrients can be used to treat those already with coronavirus disease discovered in 2019 (COVID-19), particularly if already hospitalised, is uncertain from current inconsistent or scant evidence. There is gut dysbiosis in patients with COVID-19 and studies with probiotics report clinical improvements in such patients. There is an inverse association between adherence to a healthy diet and risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospitalisation with COVID-19 which is consistent with the effects of individual nutrients and other dietary components. Addressing frailty, obesity and micronutrient insufficiency will be important to reduce the burden of future pandemics and nutritional considerations need to be a central part of the approach to preventing infections, optimising vaccine responses and promoting recovery from infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip C Calder
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
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Doaei S, Mardi A, Zare M. Role of micronutrients in the modulation of immune system and platelet activating factor in patients with COVID-19; a narrative review. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1207237. [PMID: 37781112 PMCID: PMC10540693 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1207237] [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: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Dietary micronutrients may play important roles in the improvement of the immune responses against SARS-CoV-2. This study aimed to assess the effect of micronutrients on platelet activating factor (PAF) and immunity with a special focus on the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods All paper published in English on the effects of micronutrients including fat soluble vitamins, water soluble vitamins, and minerals on PAF, immunity, and COVID-19 were collected from online valid databases. Results Vitamin A may modulate the expression of PAF-receptor gene in patients with COVID-19. Vitamin D may modulate inflammatory response through influencing PAF pathway. Vitamin E may improve COVID-19 related heart injuries by exert anti-PAF activities. Vitamin C status may have PAF related anti-inflammatory and micro-thrombotic effects in SARS-CoV-2 patients. Furthermore, some trace elements such as copper, selenium, and iron may have key roles in strengthens immunity by inactivate PAF acetyl hydrolase. Conclusion This narrative review study highlighted the importance of micronutrients in the improvement of immune function through modulation of PAF in patients with COVID-19. Further longitudinal studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Doaei
- Department of Community Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afrouz Mardi
- Department of Public Health, School of Health, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Maryam Zare
- Department of Nutrition, Khalkhal University of Medical Sciences, Khalkhal, Iran
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Bao R, Mei Q, Yang T, Zhang L, Zhu C, Fan X, Wang Y, Tong F, He Y, Fang X, Geng S, Yang Y, Sheng X, Pan A. Comparison of endotracheal aspirate and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid metagenomic next-generation sequencing in severe pneumonia: a nested, matched case-control study. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:389. [PMID: 37303052 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08376-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare clinical outcomes in patients with severe pneumonia according to the diagnostic strategy used. METHODS In this retrospective, nested, case-control study, patients with severe pneumonia who had undergone endotracheal aspirate (ETA) metagenomic next-generation sequencing of (mNGS) testing (n = 53) were matched at a ratio of 1 to 2 (n = 106) by sex, age, underlying diseases, immune status, disease severity scores, and type of pneumonia with patients who had undergone bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) mNGS. The microbiological characteristics and patient's prognosis of the two groups were compared. RESULTS An overall comparison between the two groups showed no significant differences in bacterial, fungal, viral, or mixed infections. However, subgroup analysis of 18 patients who received paired ETA and BALF mNGS showed a complete agreement rate for the two specimens of 33.3%. There were more cases for whom targeted treatment was initiated (36.79% vs. 22.64%; P = 0.043) and fewer cases who received no clinical benefit after mNGS (5.66% vs. 15.09%; P = 0.048) in the BALF group. The pneumonia improvement rate in the BALF group was significantly higher than in the ETA group (73.58% vs. 87.74%, P = 0.024). However, there were no significant differences in ICU mortality or 28-day mortality. CONCLUSIONS We do not recommend using ETA mNGS as the first-choice method for analyzing airway pathogenic specimens from severe pneumonia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renren Bao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Provincial Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Qing Mei
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China.
| | - Tianjun Yang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Chunyan Zhu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaoqin Fan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Yinzhong Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Fei Tong
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Yuxi He
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaowei Fang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Shike Geng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Provincial Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Yu Yang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Provincial Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Ximei Sheng
- WanNan Medical College, Wuhu, 241002, Anhui, China
| | - Aijun Pan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Provincial Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China.
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Xenos A, Malod-Dognin N, Zambrana C, Pržulj N. Integrated Data Analysis Uncovers New COVID-19 Related Genes and Potential Drug Re-Purposing Candidates. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021431. [PMID: 36674947 PMCID: PMC9863794 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is an acute and rapidly evolving global health crisis. To better understand this disease's molecular basis and design therapeutic strategies, we built upon the recently proposed concept of an integrated cell, iCell, fusing three omics, tissue-specific human molecular interaction networks. We applied this methodology to construct infected and control iCells using gene expression data from patient samples and three cell lines. We found large differences between patient-based and cell line-based iCells (both infected and control), suggesting that cell lines are ill-suited to studying this disease. We compared patient-based infected and control iCells and uncovered genes whose functioning (wiring patterns in iCells) is altered by the disease. We validated in the literature that 18 out of the top 20 of the most rewired genes are indeed COVID-19-related. Since only three of these genes are targets of approved drugs, we applied another data fusion step to predict drugs for re-purposing. We confirmed with molecular docking that the predicted drugs can bind to their predicted targets. Our most interesting prediction is artenimol, an antimalarial agent targeting ZFP62, one of our newly identified COVID-19-related genes. This drug is a derivative of artemisinin drugs that are already under clinical investigation for their potential role in the treatment of COVID-19. Our results demonstrate further applicability of the iCell framework for integrative comparative studies of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Xenos
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Computer Science, Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya (UPC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Noël Malod-Dognin
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Carme Zambrana
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Computer Science, Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya (UPC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nataša Pržulj
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- ICREA, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence:
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Calder PC, Ortega EF, Meydani SN, Adkins Y, Stephensen CB, Thompson B, Zwickey H. Nutrition, Immunosenescence, and Infectious Disease: An Overview of the Scientific Evidence on Micronutrients and on Modulation of the Gut Microbiota. Adv Nutr 2022; 13:S1-S26. [PMID: 36183242 PMCID: PMC9526826 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmac052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system is key to host defense against pathogenic organisms. Aging is associated with changes in the immune system, with a decline in protective components (immunosenescence), increasing susceptibility to infectious disease, and a chronic elevation in low-grade inflammation (inflammaging), increasing the risk of multiple noncommunicable diseases. Nutrition is a determinant of immune cell function and of the gut microbiota. In turn, the gut microbiota shapes and controls the immune and inflammatory responses. Many older people show changes in the gut microbiota. Age-related changes in immune competence, low-grade inflammation, and gut dysbiosis may be interlinked and may relate, at least in part, to age-related changes in nutrition. A number of micronutrients (vitamins C, D, and E and zinc and selenium) play roles in supporting the function of many immune cell types. Some trials report that providing these micronutrients as individual supplements can reverse immune deficits in older people and/or in those with insufficient intakes. There is inconsistent evidence that this will reduce the risk or severity of infections including respiratory infections. Probiotic, prebiotic, or synbiotic strategies that modulate the gut microbiota, especially by promoting the colonization of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, have been demonstrated to modulate some immune and inflammatory biomarkers in older people and, in some cases, to reduce the risk and severity of gastrointestinal and respiratory infections, although, again, the evidence is inconsistent. Further research with well-designed and well-powered trials in at-risk older populations is required to be more certain about the role of micronutrients and of strategies that modify the gut microbiota-host relationship in protecting against infection, especially respiratory infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip C Calder
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Edwin Frank Ortega
- Nutritional Immunology Laboratory, Jean Mayer–USDA Human Nutrition Research on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Simin N Meydani
- Nutritional Immunology Laboratory, Jean Mayer–USDA Human Nutrition Research on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yuriko Adkins
- USDA Western Human Nutrition Research Center, Davis, CA, USA
- Nutrition Department, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Charles B Stephensen
- USDA Western Human Nutrition Research Center, Davis, CA, USA
- Nutrition Department, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Brice Thompson
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Heather Zwickey
- Helfgott Research Institute, National University of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR, USA
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Saied A, El Borolossy RM, Ramzy MA, Sabri NA. Effect of zinc versus vitamin A supplementation on pediatric patients with community-acquired pneumonia. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:933998. [PMID: 36110532 PMCID: PMC9468708 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.933998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is one of the most common infectious diseases affecting the respiratory tract and is responsible for a high mortality rate in children less than 5 years of age. The mortality rate due to CAP is much higher in low/middle-income countries than in high-income countries due to malnutrition and different micronutrient deficiencies that weaken the immune system. Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of zinc and vitamin A, as two elements of micronutrient agents, on the recovery rate of children suffering from CAP aged from 6 months to 5 years. The length of hospital stays was also investigated. Method: A comparative, randomized, open-label, controlled, interventional study was carried out among children less than 5 years of age in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) diagnosed with CAP who were randomly divided into three groups. In addition to the standard therapy, group 1 was given zinc, group 2 was given vitamin A, and group 3 was the control group, given the standard therapy only. We compared the three groups in terms of recovery rate and hospital stay. Result: The duration of hospitalization following zinc and vitamin A supplementation was reduced by an average of 3.21 days (95% CI: 5.01–1.41, p = 0.01) and 2.43 days (95% CI: 4.29–0.57, p = 0.01), respectively, compared to the control group. In addition, the two groups of vitamin A and zinc supplementation were associated with a shorter duration of pneumonic effusion (p < 0.001) in comparison to the control group. Additionally, there was no significant difference between the effects of zinc and vitamin A when compared to each other in terms of duration of hospital stay and pneumatic effusion. Conclusion: The administration of zinc or vitamin A supplementation proved to be useful as an add-on therapy in community-acquired pneumonia, where it reduced the length of hospital stay and the duration of pneumonic effusion in pneumonic children less than 5 years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya Saied
- Clinical Pharmacist, Al Galaa Military Medical Complex, Cairo, Egypt
- *Correspondence: Aya Saied,
| | | | | | - Nagwa A. Sabri
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Halvorson EE, Saha A, Forrest CB, Razzaghi H, Brittan M, Christakis DA, Cole FS, Mejias A, Phan TLT, McCrory MC, Wells BJ, Skelton JA, Poehling KA, Tieder JS. Associations Between Weight and Lower Respiratory Tract Disease Outcomes in Hospitalized Children. Hosp Pediatr 2022; 12:734-743. [PMID: 35822402 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2021-006404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify associations between weight status and clinical outcomes in children with lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) or asthma requiring hospitalization. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study of 2 to 17 year old children hospitalized for LRTI and/or asthma from 2009 to 2019 using electronic health record data from the PEDSnet clinical research network. Children <2 years, those with medical complexity, and those without a calculable BMI were excluded. Children were classified as having underweight, normal weight, overweight, or class 1, 2, or 3 obesity based on Body Mass Index percentile for age and sex. Primary outcomes were need for positive pressure respiratory support and ICU admission. Subgroup analyses were performed for children with a primary diagnosis of asthma. Outcomes were modeled with mixed-effects multivariable logistic regression incorporating age, sex, and payer as fixed effects. RESULTS We identified 65 132 hospitalizations; 6.7% with underweight, 57.8% normal weight, 14.6% overweight, 13.2% class 1 obesity, 5.0% class 2 obesity, and 2.8% class 3 obesity. Overweight and obesity were associated with positive pressure respiratory support (class 3 obesity versus normal weight odds ratio [OR] 1.62 [1.38-1.89]) and ICU admission (class 3 obesity versus normal weight OR 1.26 [1.12-1.42]), with significant associations for all categories of overweight and obesity. Underweight was also associated with positive pressure respiratory support (OR 1.39 [1.24-1.56]) and ICU admission (1.40 [1.30-1.52]). CONCLUSIONS Both underweight and overweight or obesity are associated with increased severity of LRTI or asthma in hospitalized children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christopher B Forrest
- Applied Clinical Research Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Hanieh Razzaghi
- Applied Clinical Research Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Mark Brittan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Dimitri A Christakis
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - F Sessions Cole
- Edward Mallinckrodt Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine and St. Louis Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Asuncion Mejias
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Thao-Ly Tam Phan
- Department of Pediatrics, Nemours Children's Health System, Wilmington, Delaware
| | | | | | - Joseph A Skelton
- Departments of Pediatrics.,Epidemiology and Prevention, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Katherine A Poehling
- Departments of Pediatrics.,Epidemiology and Prevention, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Joel S Tieder
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
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11
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Siopis G. Obesity: A comorbidity-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (CAIDS). Int Rev Immunol 2022; 42:415-429. [PMID: 35666083 DOI: 10.1080/08830185.2022.2083614] [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: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating data emphasize a strong link between obesity and the severity of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), including mortality. Obesity interferes with several components of the immune system including lymphoid tissue's integrity, leukocytes' development and function, complement system's activation, and the coordination of innate and adaptive immune responses. Overall, obesity results in a less efficient immune response to infectious agents. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 exploits this weakened immune system in people with obesity to precipitate COVID-19, and in some cases death. It is therefore the author's recommendation that obesity should be viewed as another form of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and be treated with the appropriate seriousness. Unlike the previously described acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) that is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), obesity is a comorbidity-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. People with AIDS do not die from HIV, but may die from opportunistic pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis. However, AIDS is ascribed its due importance in the course of deterioration of the patient. Similarly, obesity should be acknowledged further as a risk factor for mortality from COVID-19. Obesity is a modifiable condition and even in people with a strong genetic predisposition, lifestyle modifications can reverse obesity, and even moderate weight loss can improve the inflammatory milieu. Strong public health actions are warranted to promote lifestyle measures to reduce the burden from overweight and obesity that currently affect more than one-third of the global population, with projections alarming this may reach 55-80% within the next thirty years.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Siopis
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Burwood, Australia
- Faculty of Health, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
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12
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Sadeghsoltani F, Mohammadzadeh I, Safari MM, Hassanpour P, Izadpanah M, Qujeq D, Moein S, Vaghari-Tabari M. Zinc and Respiratory Viral Infections: Important Trace Element in Anti-viral Response and Immune Regulation. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022; 200:2556-2571. [PMID: 34368933 PMCID: PMC8349606 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-021-02859-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-COV2 are among the most dangerous respiratory viruses. Zinc is one of the essential micronutrients and is very important in the immune system. The aim of this narrative review is to review the most interesting findings about the importance of zinc in the anti-viral immune response in the respiratory tract and defense against influenza, RSV, and SARS-COV2 infections. The most interesting findings on the role of zinc in regulating immunity in the respiratory tract and the relationship between zinc and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are reviewed, as well. Besides, current findings regarding the relationship between zinc and the effectiveness of respiratory viruses' vaccines are reviewed. The results of reviewed studies have shown that zinc and some zinc-dependent proteins are involved in anti-viral defense and immune regulation in the respiratory tract. It seems that zinc can reduce the viral titer following influenza infection. Zinc may reduce RSV burden in the lungs. Zinc can be effective in reducing the duration of viral pneumonia symptoms. Zinc may enhance the effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine in reducing mortality rate in COVID-19 patients. Besides, zinc has a positive effect in preventing ARDS and ventilator-induced lung damage. The relationship between zinc levels and the effectiveness of respiratory viruses' vaccines, especially influenza vaccines, is still unclear, and the findings are somewhat contradictory. In conclusion, zinc has anti-viral properties and is important in defending against respiratory viral infections and regulating the immune response in the respiratory tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Sadeghsoltani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Daneshgah Street, P.O. Box 51666-14711, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Iraj Mohammadzadeh
- Non-Communicable Pediatric Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Mir-Meghdad Safari
- Virtual School of Medical Education and Management, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Hassanpour
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Daneshgah Street, P.O. Box 51666-14711, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Melika Izadpanah
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Durdi Qujeq
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center (CMBRC), Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Soheila Moein
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mostafa Vaghari-Tabari
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Daneshgah Street, P.O. Box 51666-14711, Tabriz, Iran.
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Tabatabaeizadeh SA. Zinc supplementation and COVID-19 mortality: a meta-analysis. Eur J Med Res 2022; 27:70. [PMID: 35599332 PMCID: PMC9125011 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-022-00694-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the agent of a pneumonia outbreak and was called 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). COVID-19 emerged in December 2019 and now considered a pandemic. Zinc supplementation can reduce mortality in patients with severe pneumonia. This study aimed at meta-analysis of the results of related studies and evaluate the effect of zinc supplementation on COVID-19 mortality. METHODS A systematic search has conducted for manuscripts through PUBMED/Medline and Google Scholar (Cochrane guideline has considered it as the gray literature) up to September 2021. This meta-analysis followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) Guideline for evaluation of the effect zinc supplementation on COVID-19 mortality. Based on the heterogeneity a fixed-effect or random-effect model, the OR and 95% CI were used to assess the combined risk. RESULTS After assessment, five studies with 1506 participants in case and control groups were included in meta-analysis. The OR for one study was not estimable, and the pool OR was estimated for other studies with 1398 participants. The meta-analysis showed that zinc supplementation in cases led to a significant lower risk of mortality when it was compared with the control group; pooled OR (95% CI) was 0.57 [0.43, 0.77] (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION This meta-analysis has suggested that zinc supplementation is associated with a lower mortality rate in COVID-19 patients. Zinc supplementation could be considered as a simple way and cost benefit approach for reduction of mortality in COVID-19 patients.
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Baarz BR, Rink L. Rebalancing the unbalanced aged immune system - A special focus on zinc. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 74:101541. [PMID: 34915196 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, aging is understood as a dynamic and multifaceted dysregulation process that spares almost no human organ or cell. The immune system being among the most affected, it has been shown predominantly that its integrity determines the tightrope walk between the difference of escaping or suffering from age-related diseases. Next to drug-based anti-aging strategies, micronutrient intervention may represent an emerging but less radical way to slow immune aging. While a sufficient supply of a variety of micronutrients is undeniably important, adequate intake of the trace element zinc appears to tower over others in terms of reaching old age. Inconveniently, zinc deficiency prevalence among the elderly is high, which in turn contributes to increased susceptibility to infection, decreased anti-tumor immunity as well as attenuated response to vaccination. Driven by this research, this review aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the various rebalancing capabilities of zinc in the unbalanced immune system of the elderly. This includes an in-depth and cell type-centered discussion on the role of zinc in immunosenescence and inflammaging. We further address upcoming translational aspects e.g. how zinc deficiency promotes the flourishing of certain pathogenic taxa of the gut microbiome and how zinc supply counteracts such alterations in a manner that may contribute to longevity. In the light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we also briefly review current knowledge on the interdependency between age, zinc status, and respiratory infections. Based on two concrete examples and considering the latest findings in the field we conclude our remarks by outlining tremendous parallels between suboptimal zinc status and accelerated aging on the one hand and an optimized zinc status and successful aging on the other hand.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article will briefly describe the role of specific dietary components, mainly micronutrients, in supporting the immune response and summarise the literature regarding foods and dietary patterns in the context of immunity and infectious illness. Literature on SARS-COV-2 infection and COVID-19 is referred to where appropriate. RECENT FINDINGS Micronutrients, other nutrients and plant bioactives have roles in supporting the immune response. Low status of a number of micronutrients is associated with increased risk and severity of COVID-19. Recent studies report associations of plant-based diets with lower risk of, and less severe, COVID-19. SUMMARY In order to support the immune response, sufficient amounts of a range of essential and non-essential nutrients and other bioactives, mainly from a plant-based diet should be consumed. Further research should define cause-and-effect relationships of intakes of individual dietary components and foods, and of dietary patterns with susceptibility to, and severity of, viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip C Calder
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
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16
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Irfan O, Black RE, Lassi ZS, Bhutta ZA. Zinc Supplementation and the Prevention and Treatment of Sepsis in Young Infants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Neonatology 2022; 119:164-175. [PMID: 38606924 DOI: 10.1159/000521275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prematurity and low birth weight are major risk factors for neonatal sepsis. Zinc supplements have been previously shown to be beneficial in pregnancy and small for gestational age birth outcomes. There is sparse information, however, on the potential benefits of zinc supplementation to prevent or treat serious infections in this age group. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of preventive and therapeutic zinc supplementation in young infant (<4 months) sepsis. METHODS MEDLINE, Cochrane CENTRAL, and other databases were searched from inception until 18 June 2021. Studies assessing preventive and therapeutic zinc supplementation in young infants in relation to incidence and outcomes of suspected sepsis were included. Meta-analyses of pooled effects were calculated for sepsis-related outcomes. RESULTS Nine randomized controlled trials involving 2,553 infants were included. Six studies reported therapeutic efficacy, whereas 3 evaluated preventive benefits of zinc supplementation. Preventive studies suggest a protective effect of zinc supplementation on neonatal mortality rate (NMR) (risk ratio (RR) 0.28; 95% CI 0.12-0.67, LOW certainty), but with no effect on the incidence of sepsis, both in preterm neonates. Among young infants, therapeutic zinc was associated with significant reductions in treatment failure (RR 0.61; 95% CI 0.44-0.85; MODERATE certainty) and further subgroup analysis showing significant reduction in infant mortality rate with 3 mg/kg/twice a day dosage only (RR 0.49; 95% CI 0.27-0.87, LOW certainty). Therapeutic zinc supplementation in neonates did not show any effect on hospital stay or NMR. CONCLUSION Zinc supplementation could potentially reduce mortality and treatment failure in young infants but has no noteworthy influence on hospital stay and in the prevention of sepsis. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm the direction and magnitude of effects if any.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Irfan
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robert E Black
- Department Global Disease Epidemiology and Control, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Zohra S Lassi
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Zulfiqar A Bhutta
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute for Global Health & Development, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
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Drożdżal S, Rosik J, Lechowicz K, Machaj F, Szostak B, Przybyciński J, Lorzadeh S, Kotfis K, Ghavami S, Łos MJ. An update on drugs with therapeutic potential for SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) treatment. Drug Resist Updat 2021; 59:100794. [PMID: 34991982 PMCID: PMC8654464 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2021.100794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is one of the greatest threats to human health in the 21st century with more than 257 million cases and over 5.17 million deaths reported worldwide (as of November 23, 2021. Various agents were initially proclaimed to be effective against SARS-CoV-2, the etiological agent of COVID-19. Hydroxychloroquine, lopinavir/ritonavir, and ribavirin are all examples of therapeutic agents, whose efficacy against COVID-19 was later disproved. Meanwhile, concentrated efforts of researchers and clinicians worldwide have led to the identification of novel therapeutic options to control the disease including PAXLOVID™ (PF-07321332). Although COVID-19 cases are currently treated using a comprehensive approach of anticoagulants, oxygen, and antibiotics, the novel Pfizer agent PAXLOVID™ (PF-07321332), an investigational COVID-19 oral antiviral candidate, significantly reduced hospitalization time and death rates, based on an interim analysis of the phase 2/3 EPIC-HR (Evaluation of Protease Inhibition for COVID-19 in High-Risk Patients) randomized, double-blind study of non-hospitalized adult patients with COVID-19, who are at high risk of progressing to severe illness. The scheduled interim analysis demonstrated an 89 % reduction in risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization or death from any cause compared to placebo in patients treated within three days of symptom onset (primary endpoint). However, there still exists a great need for the development of additional treatments, as the recommended therapeutic options are insufficient in many cases. Thus far, mRNA and vector vaccines appear to be the most effective modalities to control the pandemic. In the current review, we provide an update on the progress that has been made since April 2020 in clinical trials concerning the effectiveness of therapies available to combat COVID-19. We focus on currently recommended therapeutic agents, including steroids, various monoclonal antibodies, remdesivir, baricitinib, anticoagulants and PAXLOVID™ summarizing the latest original studies and meta-analyses. Moreover, we aim to discuss other currently and previously studied agents targeting COVID-19 that either show no or only limited therapeutic activity. The results of recent studies report that hydroxychloroquine and convalescent plasma demonstrate no efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Lastly, we summarize the studies on various drugs with incoherent or insufficient data concerning their effectiveness, such as amantadine, ivermectin, or niclosamide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwester Drożdżal
- Department of Nephrology, Transplantation and Internal Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland
| | - Jakub Rosik
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland
| | - Kacper Lechowicz
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Therapy and Acute Intoxications, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland
| | - Filip Machaj
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland
| | - Bartosz Szostak
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland
| | - Jarosław Przybyciński
- Department of Nephrology, Transplantation and Internal Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland
| | - Shahrokh Lorzadeh
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Science and Research Branch, Marvdasht Branch, Islamic Azad University, Marvdasht, Iran
| | - Katarzyna Kotfis
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Therapy and Acute Intoxications, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Research Institutes of Oncology and Hematology, Cancer Care Manitoba-University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada; Biology of Breathing Theme, Children Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada; Autophagy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz 7134845794, Iran; Faculty of Medicine, Katowice School of Technology, 40-555 Katowice, Poland
| | - Marek J Łos
- Biotechnology Centre, Silesian University of Technology, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland.
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Cena H, Fiechtner L, Vincenti A, Magenes VC, De Giuseppe R, Manuelli M, Zuccotti GV, Calcaterra V. COVID-19 Pandemic as Risk Factors for Excessive Weight Gain in Pediatrics: The Role of Changes in Nutrition Behavior. A Narrative Review. Nutrients 2021; 13:4255. [PMID: 34959805 PMCID: PMC8707175 DOI: 10.3390/nu13124255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, social isolation, semi-lockdown, and "stay at home" orders were imposed upon the population in the interest of infection control. This dramatically changes the daily routine of children and adolescents, with a large impact on lifestyle and wellbeing. Children with obesity have been shown to be at a higher risk of negative lifestyle changes and weight gain during lockdown. Obesity and COVID-19 negatively affect children and adolescents' wellbeing, with adverse effects on psychophysical health, due in large part to food choices, snacking between meals, and comfort eating. Moreover, a markable decrease in physical activity levels and an increase in sedentary behavior is associated with weight gain, especially in children with excessive weight. In addition, obesity is the most common comorbidity in severe cases of COVID-19, suggesting that immune dysregulation, metabolic unbalance, inadequate nutritional status, and dysbiosis are key factors in the complex mechanistic and clinical interplay between obesity and COVID-19. This narrative review aims to describe the most up-to-date evidence on the clinical characteristics of COVID-19 in children and adolescents, focusing on the role of excessive weight and weight gain in pediatrics. The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us that nutrition education interventions, access to healthy food, as well as family nutrition counselling should be covered by pediatric services to prevent obesity, which worsens disease outcomes related to COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hellas Cena
- Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Service, Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, ICS Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (H.C.); or (M.M.)
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.V.); (R.D.G.)
| | - Lauren Fiechtner
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
- Division of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Center for Pediatric Nutrition, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alessandra Vincenti
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.V.); (R.D.G.)
| | | | - Rachele De Giuseppe
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.V.); (R.D.G.)
| | - Matteo Manuelli
- Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Service, Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, ICS Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (H.C.); or (M.M.)
| | - Gian Vincenzo Zuccotti
- Pediatric Department, “V. Buzzi” Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milan, Italy; (V.C.M.); (G.V.Z.)
- “L. Sacco” Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Calcaterra
- Pediatric Department, “V. Buzzi” Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milan, Italy; (V.C.M.); (G.V.Z.)
- Pediatric and Adolescent Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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19
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Relationship between serum zinc level and sepsis-induced coagulopathy. Int J Hematol 2021; 115:87-95. [PMID: 34669153 DOI: 10.1007/s12185-021-03225-4] [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: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated whether a decrease in the serum zinc level (SZL) among patients with sepsis admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) was related to sepsis-induced coagulopathy. METHODS All patients (≥20 years) with a diagnosis of sepsis defined by Sepsis-3 criteria, presenting to the ICU between June 2016 and July 2017, were enrolled. Demographic characteristics and the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) and Japanese Association of Acute Medicine (JAAM) disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) scores were recorded. Blood samples were collected upon admission and analyzed for SZL. RESULTS One hundred patients with sepsis (median age, 70 years) were enrolled. Patients with SOFA scores ≥8 had a significantly lower SZL compared to those with SOFA scores <8 (p < 0.001). The SZL in the DIC group (JAAM DIC score ≥4) was significantly lower than that in the non-DIC group (JAAM DIC score <4) (p < 0.001). Analysis of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for prediction of sepsis-induced DIC based on SZL in patients with sepsis showed a cut-off value of 25 µg/dL for zinc level and a sensitivity of 63% and a specificity of 72% with AUC of 0.7 (p = 0.0065). CONCLUSION We observed that SZL reflects organ failure, particularly coagulopathy, in patients with sepsis.
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20
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Santos HO. Therapeutic supplementation with zinc in the management of COVID-19-related diarrhea and ageusia/dysgeusia: mechanisms and clues for a personalized dosage regimen. Nutr Rev 2021; 80:1086-1093. [PMID: 34338769 PMCID: PMC8385805 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuab054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc supplementation is indicated for diarrhea and taste disorders, which are both features of COVID-19. Nevertheless, this strategy has not been tested for the treatment of these secondary complications in the current pandemic. Through an updated review, a practical appraisal was considered as a means of providing a medical nexus of therapeutic zinc regimens as an adjunct in the management of COVID-19–related diarrhea and ageusia/dysgeusia. While diarrhea and taste disorders are consequences of COVID-19, zinc supplementation is useful for non–COVID-19 patients with these clinical problems. The overwhelming evidence for supplementing with zinc in diarrhea and pneumonia is associated with the treatment of children, while for taste disorders the use of supplementing with zinc is more examined in adults. Whereas COVID-19 is more prevalent in adults, precautions should be exercised not to translate the zinc dosage used for children with diarrhea and taste disorders into the current pandemic. Therapeutic doses of zinc used for adults (∼50–150 mg/day of elemental zinc) could be included in the treatment strategies for COVID-19, but this proposal should be examined through randomized studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heitor O Santos
- H.O. Santos is with the School of Medicine, Federal University of Uberlandia (UFU), Uberlandia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- H.O. Santos, School of Medicine, Federal University of Uberlandia (UFU), Para Street, 1720, Umuarama, Block 2H, Uberlandia, 38400-902 MG, Brazil. E-mail:
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21
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Tsoukalas D, Sarandi E, Georgaki S. The snapshot of metabolic health in evaluating micronutrient status, the risk of infection and clinical outcome of COVID-19. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2021; 44:173-187. [PMID: 34330463 PMCID: PMC8234252 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2021.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 has re-established the significance of analyzing the organism through a metabolic perspective to uncover the dynamic interconnections within the biological systems. The role of micronutrient status and metabolic health emerge as pivotal in COVID-19 pathogenesis and the immune system's response. Metabolic disruption, proceeding from modifiable factors, has been proposed as a significant risk factor accounting for infection susceptibility, disease severity and risk for post-COVID complications. Metabolomics, the comprehensive study and quantification of intermediates and products of metabolism, is a rapidly evolving field and a novel tool in biomarker discovery. In this article, we propose that leveraging insulin resistance biomarkers along with biomarkers of micronutrient deficiencies, will allow for a diagnostic window and provide functional therapeutic targets. Specifically, metabolomics can be applied as: a. At-home test to assess the risk of infection and propose nutritional support, b. A screening tool for high-risk COVID-19 patients to develop serious illness during hospital admission and prioritize medical support, c(i). A tool to match nutritional support with specific nutrient requirements for mildly ill patients to reduce the risk for hospitalization, and c(ii). for critically ill patients to reduce recovery time and risk of post-COVID complications, d. At-home test to monitor metabolic health and reduce post-COVID symptomatology. Metabolic rewiring offers potential virtues towards disease prevention, dissection of high-risk patients, taking actionable therapeutic measures, as well as shielding against post-COVID syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris Tsoukalas
- European Institute of Nutritional Medicine, 00198 Rome, Italy; Metabolomic Medicine, Health Clinic for Autoimmune and Chronic Diseases, 10674 Athens, Greece.
| | - Evangelia Sarandi
- Metabolomic Medicine, Health Clinic for Autoimmune and Chronic Diseases, 10674 Athens, Greece; Laboratory of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece.
| | - Spyridoula Georgaki
- Metabolomic Medicine, Health Clinic for Autoimmune and Chronic Diseases, 10674 Athens, Greece.
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22
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Nedjimi B. Can trace element supplementations (Cu, Se, and Zn) enhance human immunity against COVID-19 and its new variants? BENI-SUEF UNIVERSITY JOURNAL OF BASIC AND APPLIED SCIENCES 2021; 10:33. [PMID: 34026905 PMCID: PMC8127438 DOI: 10.1186/s43088-021-00123-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Coronavirus-19 (SARS-CoV-2) is constantly changed through mutation, and new stains of this virus are detected throughout the world such as B.1.1.7 (UK), B.1.351 (South Africa), and P.1 (Brazil). These strains seem to be more easily transmissible than other variants, which may lead to more cases and more deaths. Currently, there are many vaccines for SARS-CoV-2 available in the market but without full clinical data beside. Despite the existence of these vaccines, the numbers of outpatients are still increasing in many countries around the world, and the reliability of these vaccines still remains elusive. It is well known that trace element deficiencies increase the individual susceptibility to immune dysfunction and lead to global health problem. In this context, improving the immune defense system to combats this pandemic is absolutely necessary. The purpose of this review is to establish the probable relation between trace elements supplementation and COVID-19. Main body Several clinical studies confirmed that Cu, Se, and Zn insufficiencies alter the immune system and increase the vulnerability to viral infections. Based on antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects of these micronutrients, it seems logical that dietary supplementations of these components might enhance human immune system and lower the graveness of COVID-19 infection. Conclusion Based on available data, we hypothesize that the clinical use of some essential trace element supplementations such as copper, selenium, and zinc might be a preventive and promising option to enhance human immunity against the new pandemic COVID-19 and its new strains. Graphical abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Bouzid Nedjimi
- Laboratory of EVSE, Faculty of Science of Nature and Life, Ziane Achour University of Djelfa, P.O. Box 3117, Cité Aîn Chih, 17000 Djelfa, Algeria
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Hoppe C, Kutschan S, Dörfler J, Büntzel J, Büntzel J, Huebner J. Zinc as a complementary treatment for cancer patients: a systematic review. Clin Exp Med 2021; 21:297-313. [PMID: 33496846 PMCID: PMC8053661 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-020-00677-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Zinc is a trace element that plays an important role in the immune system and cell growth. The role of zinc in cancer treatment has been discussed for some time, however without reaching an evidenced-based consensus. Therefore, we aim to critically examine and review existing evidence on the role of zinc during cancer treatment. In January 2019, a systematic search was conducted searching five electronic databases (Embase, Cochrane, PsychINFO, CINAHL and PubMed) to find studies concerning the use, effectiveness and potential harm of zinc therapy on cancer patients. Out of initial 5244 search results, 19 publications concerning 23 studies with 1230 patients were included in this systematic review. The patients treated with zinc were mainly diagnosed with head and neck cancer and underwent chemo-, radio- or concurrent radio-chemotherapy. Interventions included the intake of different amounts of zinc supplements and oral zinc rinses. Outcomes (primary endpoints) investigated were mucositis, xerostomia, dysgeusia, pain, weight, dermatitis and oral intake of nutrients. Secondary endpoints were survival data, quality of life assessments and aspects of fatigue, immune responses and toxicities of zinc. The studies were of moderate quality reporting heterogeneous results. Studies have shown a positive impact on the mucositis after radiotherapy. No protection was seen against mucositis after chemotherapy. There was a trend to reduced loss of taste, less dry mouth and oral pain after zinc substitution. No impact was seen on weight, QoL measurements, fatigue, and survival. The risk of side effects from zinc appears to be relatively small. Zinc could be useful in the prevention of oral toxicities during irradiation. It does not help in chemotherapy-induced side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Hoppe
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - S Kutschan
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - J Dörfler
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - J Büntzel
- Klinik für HNO-Erkrankungen, Kopf-Hals-Chirurgie, Südharz-Klinikum Nordhausen, Dr.-Robert-Koch-Str. 39, 99734, Nordhausen, Germany
| | - J Büntzel
- Klinik für Hämatologie und Medizinische Onkologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jutta Huebner
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, Hämatologie und Internistische Onkologie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany.
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Richardson DP, Lovegrove JA. Nutritional status of micronutrients as a possible and modifiable risk factor for COVID-19: a UK perspective. Br J Nutr 2021; 125:678-684. [PMID: 32815493 PMCID: PMC7492581 DOI: 10.1017/s000711452000330x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent scientific evidence has indicated that the elderly have increased risk of COVID-19 infections, with over 70s and 80s being hardest hit - especially residents of care homes and in clinical settings, ethnic minorities, people who work indoors and those who are overweight and obese. Other potential risk factors include lack of exposure to sunlight, darker skin pigmentation, co-morbidities, poor diet, certain medications, disadvantaged social and economic status, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol. A key question is to understand how and why certain groups of people are more susceptible to COVID-19, whether they have weakened immune systems and what the roles of good nutrition and specific micronutrients are in supporting immune functions. A varied and balanced diet with an abundance of fruits and vegetables and the essential nutrients like vitamin D, vitamin A, B vitamins (folate, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12), vitamin C and the minerals, Fe, Cu, Se and Zn are all known to contribute to the normal functions of the immune system. Avoidance of deficiencies and identification of suboptimal intakes of these micronutrients in targeted groups of patients and in distinct and highly sensitive populations could help to strengthen the resilience of people to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to highlight evidence-based public health messages, to prevent false and misleading claims about the benefits of foods and food supplements and to communicate clearly that the extent of knowledge between micronutrients and COVID-19 infection is still being explored and that no diet will prevent or cure COVID-19 infection. Frequent handwashing and social distancing will be critical to reduce transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- David P. Richardson
- Hugh Sinclair Unit of Human Nutrition, Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, University of Reading, Whiteknights, ReadingRG6 6AP, UK
| | - Julie A. Lovegrove
- Hugh Sinclair Unit of Human Nutrition, Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, University of Reading, Whiteknights, ReadingRG6 6AP, UK
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25
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Zinc Aspartate Induces IL-16 Secretion and Apoptosis in Human T Cells. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9030246. [PMID: 33804583 PMCID: PMC7998552 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9030246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
T cell activation mediates immunity to pathogens. On the flipside, T cells are also involved in pathological immune responses during chronic autoimmune diseases. We recently reported that zinc aspartate, a registered drug with high bioavailability, dose-dependently inhibits T cell activation and Th1/Th2/Th17 cytokine production of stimulated human and mouse T cells. To understand the suppressive effect of zinc on T cell function, we here investigated the influence of zinc aspartate on human T cells focusing on the secretion of immunosuppressive cytokines, induction of apoptosis, and caspase 3/7 activity. To this end, we monitored either freshly stimulated or pre-activated human T cells in the presence of zinc aspartate from 40–140 µM over a period of 72 h. Under both experimental conditions, we observed a dose-dependent suppression of human T cell proliferation. While IL-1ra, latent TGF-β1, and IL-10 were dose-dependently reduced, we, unexpectedly, detected elevated levels of IL-16 upon zinc supplementation. In addition, the number of cells with active caspase 3/7 and, consecutively, the amount of cells undergoing apoptosis, steadily increased at zinc aspartate concentrations exceeding 100 µM. Taken together, our findings suggest that zinc aspartate impairs T cell fitness and might be beneficial for the treatment of T cell-mediated autoimmune diseases.
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26
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Dubourg G, Lagier JC, Brouqui P, Casalta JP, Jacomo V, La Scola B, Rolain JM, Raoult D. Low blood zinc concentrations in patients with poor clinical outcome during SARS-CoV-2 infection: is there a need to supplement with zinc COVID-19 patients? JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2021; 54:997-1000. [PMID: 33632620 PMCID: PMC7881284 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2021.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Among 275 patients with COVID-19, we found that median blood zinc level was significantly lower in patients with poor clinical outcome (N = 75) as compared to patients with good clinical outcome (N = 200) (840 μg/L versus 970 μg/L; p < 0.0001), suggesting that zinc supplementation could be useful for patients with severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grégory Dubourg
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ., IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Lagier
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ., IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Brouqui
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ., IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Paul Casalta
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ., IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
| | | | - Bernard La Scola
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ., IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Marc Rolain
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ., IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France.
| | - Didier Raoult
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ., IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille, France.
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Barffour MA, Hinnouho GM, Wessells KR, Kounnavong S, Ratsavong K, Sitthideth D, Bounheuang B, Sengnam K, Chanhthavong B, Arnold CD, Brown KH, Larson CP, Hess SY. Effects of therapeutic zinc supplementation for diarrhea and two preventive zinc supplementation regimens on the incidence and duration of diarrhea and acute respiratory tract infections in rural Laotian children: A randomized controlled trial. J Glob Health 2021; 10:010424. [PMID: 32612816 PMCID: PMC7321011 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.10.010424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diarrhea and respiratory tract infections are leading causes of childhood morbidity and mortality. This individually randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial was designed to evaluate the effects of different zinc supplementation regimens on the incidence and duration of diarrhea and acute lower (ALRI) and upper (AURI) respiratory tract infections among rural Laotian children. The study included 3407 children, 6-23 months at enrollment. Methods Children were randomized to one of four study groups: therapeutic zinc supplements for diarrhea treatment (20 mg/d for 10 days with each episode; TZ), daily preventive zinc tablets (7 mg/d; PZ), daily multiple micronutrient powder (10 mg/d zinc, 6 mg/d iron and 13 other micronutrients; MNP), or daily placebo powder for 9 months. Incidence and duration of diarrhea (≥3 liquid stools/24 hours), ALRI (persistent cough with wheezing, stridor or chest in-drawing) and AURI (purulent nasal discharge with cough) were assessed by parental report during weekly home visits and analyzed using negative binomial models. Results Baseline mean age was 14.2 ± 5.1 months, and 71% had low plasma zinc (<65 μg/dL). Overall diarrhea incidence (0.61 ± 0.01 episodes/100 days at risk) and duration (2.12 ± 0.03 days/episode) did not differ by study group. Age modified the impact of the interventions on diarrhea incidence (P = 0.06) and duration (P = 0.01). In children >18 months, TZ reduced diarrhea incidence by 24% vs MNP (P = 0.035), and 36% vs Control (P = 0.004), but there was no difference with PZ. This patterned remained when analyses were restricted to diarrhea episode occurring after the first treatment with TZ. Also, in children >18 months, TZ reduced diarrhea duration by 15% vs PZ (P = 0.03), and 16% vs Control (P = 0.03), but there was no difference with MNP. There were no overall effects of study group on incidence of ALRI (overall mean 0.005 ± 0.001 episodes/100 days, P = 0.14) or AURI (overall mean 0.09 ± 0.01 episodes/100 days, P = 0.72). Conclusions There was no overall impact of TZ, PZ or MNP on diarrhea, ALRI and AURI. However, in children >18 months, TZ significantly reduced both the duration of diarrhea episodes and the incidence of future diarrhea episodes compared with placebo. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02428647.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell A Barffour
- Institute for Global Nutrition, University of California, Davis, California, USA.,College of Health and Human Services, Public Health Program, Missouri State University, Springfield, Missouri, USA
| | - Guy-Marino Hinnouho
- Institute for Global Nutrition, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - K Ryan Wessells
- Institute for Global Nutrition, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Sengchanh Kounnavong
- Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Kethmany Ratsavong
- Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Dalaphone Sitthideth
- Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Bangone Bounheuang
- Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Khanpaseuth Sengnam
- Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Bigphone Chanhthavong
- Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Charles D Arnold
- Institute for Global Nutrition, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Kenneth H Brown
- Institute for Global Nutrition, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Charles P Larson
- School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Sonja Y Hess
- Institute for Global Nutrition, University of California, Davis, California, USA
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28
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Abioye AI, Bromage S, Fawzi W. Effect of micronutrient supplements on influenza and other respiratory tract infections among adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:e003176. [PMID: 33472840 PMCID: PMC7818810 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-003176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute respiratory tract infections (ARIs) are a leading cause of ill-health and death globally. Individual or multiple micronutrients have been shown to modulate immune function and affect the risk and severity of a number of infectious diseases. We systematically reviewed the evidence on the impact of micronutrient supplements to reduce the occurrence of ARIs and shorten the duration of ARI symptoms among adults. Random effects meta-analyses were conducted to estimate the pooled effects of vitamin D, vitamin C, zinc and multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) on the occurrence of ARIs and the duration of ARI symptoms. Vitamin D supplementation reduced the risk of ARI (risk ratio (RR)=0.97; 95% CI 0.94 to 1.00; p=0.028) and shortened the duration of symptoms (per cent difference: -6% (95% CI -9% to -2%; p=0.003)). The RR of vitamin D to prevent ARI was farther from the null when diagnosis was based on clinical diagnosis or laboratory testing, compared with self-report and when the loading dose was <60 000 IU. Vitamin C supplementation reduced the risk of ARIs (RR=0.96; 95% CI 0.93 to 0.99; p=0.01) and shortened the duration of symptoms (per cent difference: -9% (95% CI -16% to -2%; p=0.014)). The effect of vitamin C on preventing ARI was stronger among men and in middle-income countries, compared with women and high-income countries, respectively. Zinc supplementation did not reduce the risk of ARIs but shortened the duration of symptoms substantially (per cent difference: -47% (95% CI -73% to -21%; p=0.0004)). Our synthesis of global evidence from randomised controlled trials indicates that micronutrient supplements including zinc, vitamins C and D, and multiple micronutrient supplements may be modestly effective in preventing ARIs and improving their clinical course. Further research is warranted to better understand the effectiveness that individual or multiple micronutrients have on SARS-CoV-2 infection and treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajibola Ibraheem Abioye
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard University T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sabri Bromage
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard University T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Wafaie Fawzi
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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29
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Perera M, El Khoury J, Chinni V, Bolton D, Qu L, Johnson P, Trubiano J, McDonald CF, Jones D, Bellomo R, Patel O, Ischia J. Randomised controlled trial for high-dose intravenous zinc as adjunctive therapy in SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) positive critically ill patients: trial protocol. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e040580. [PMID: 33268419 PMCID: PMC7712927 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-040580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) has caused an international pandemic of respiratory illness, resulting in significant healthcare and economic turmoil. To date, no robust vaccine or treatment has been identified. Elemental zinc has previously been demonstrated to have beneficial effects on coronaviruses and other viral respiratory infections due to its effect on RNA polymerase. Additionally, zinc has well-demonstrated protective effects against hypoxic injury-a clear mechanism of end-organ injury in respiratory distress syndrome. We aimed to assess the effect of high-dose intravenous zinc (HDIVZn) on SARS-CoV-2 infection. The end of study analyses will evaluate the reduction of impact of oxygen saturations or requirement of oxygen supplementation. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We designed a double-blind randomised controlled trial of daily HDIVZn (0.5 mg/kg) versus placebo. Primary outcome measures are lowest oxygen saturation (or greatest level of supplemental oxygenation) for non-ventilated patients and worst PaO2/FiO2 for ventilated patients. Following power calculations, 60 hospitalised patients and 100 ventilated patients will be recruited to demonstrate a 20% difference. The duration of follow-up is up to the point of discharge. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval was obtained through the independent Human Research Ethics Committee. Participant recruitment will commence in May 2020. Results will be published in peer-reviewed medical journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN126200000454976.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlon Perera
- Department of Surgery, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - John El Khoury
- Department of Surgery, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vidyasagar Chinni
- Department of Surgery, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Damien Bolton
- Department of Surgery, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Liang Qu
- Department of Surgery, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Johnson
- Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jason Trubiano
- Infectious Diseases, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Daryl Jones
- Intensive Care Unit Austin Hospital, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rinaldo Bellomo
- Intensive Care Unit Austin Hospital, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Oneel Patel
- Department of Surgery, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joseph Ischia
- Department of Surgery, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
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Luo W, Liu Y, Zhang Q, Zhong H, Deng J. Effect of traditional Chinese medicine injections on severe pneumonia: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e22012. [PMID: 32991404 PMCID: PMC7523816 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000022012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traditional Chinese medicine injections (TCMJ) used in the treatment of severe pneumonia have been widely implemented in clinical practice, but their overall efficacy and safety remain unclear. This paper aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TCMJ in the treatment of severe pneumonia. METHODS PubMed, EMbase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang, and the Chongqing VIP Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database were all searched for randomized controlled trials focusing on the administration of TCMJ for severe pneumonia. Two researchers independently screened titles, abstracts, full texts, and extracted relevant data. The RevMan 5.3 software (The Cochrane Collaboration, Software Update, Oxford, UK) and Stata 14 software (STATA Corporation, College Station, TX) were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS This study summarizes the related randomized controlled trials to assess the effect and safety of TCMJ in the treatment of severe pneumonia. CONCLUSION This article provides theoretical support for the clinical application of TCMJ in the treatment of severe pneumonia. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020185072.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Luo
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Chongqing Jiangbei Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Ya Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Army Medical Center of PLA
| | - Huifang Zhong
- Department of Personnel Office, Chongqing Jiangbei Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongoing, China
| | - Jia Deng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Chongqing Jiangbei Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Campion-Smith TJ, Kerac M, McGrath M, Berkley JA. Antimicrobial and micronutrient interventions for the management of infants under 6 months of age identified with severe malnutrition: a literature review. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9175. [PMID: 32974089 PMCID: PMC7487149 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infants under 6 months (U6M) contribute a significant proportion of the burden and mortality of severe malnutrition globally. Evidence of underlying aetiology in this population is sparse, but it is known that the group includes ex-preterm and low birthweight (LBW) infants. They represent a unique population given their dependence on breastmilk or a safe, secure alternative. Nutrition agencies and health providers struggle to make programming decisions on which interventions should be provided to this group based upon the 2013 WHO Guidelines for the 'Management of Severe Acute Malnutrition in Infants and Young Children' since there are no published interventional trial data focussed on this population. Interim guidance for this group might be informed by evidence of safety and efficacy in adjacent population groups. METHODOLOGY A narrative literature review was performed of systematic reviews, meta-analyses and randomised controlled trials of antimicrobial and micronutrient interventions (antibiotics, deworming, vitamin A, vitamin D, iron, zinc, folic acid and oral rehydration solution (ORS) for malnutrition) across the population groups of low birthweight/preterm infants, infants under 6 months, infants and children over 6 months with acute malnutrition or through supplementation to breastfeeding mothers. Outcomes of interest were safety and efficacy, in terms of mortality and morbidity. RESULTS Ninety-four articles were identified for inclusion within this review. None of these studied interventions exclusively in severely malnourished infants U6M. 64% reported on the safety of studied interventions. Significant heterogeneity was identified in definitions of study populations, interventions provided, and outcomes studied. The evidence for efficacy and safety across population groups is reviewed and presented for the interventions listed. CONCLUSIONS The direct evidence base for medical interventions for severely malnourished infants U6M is sparse. Our review identifies a specific need for accurate micronutrient profiling and interventional studies of micronutrients and oral fluid management of diarrhoea amongst infants U6M meeting anthropometric criteria for severe malnutrition. Indirect evidence presented in this review may help shape interim policy and programming decisions as well as the future research agenda for the management of infants U6M identified as malnourished.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marko Kerac
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - James A. Berkley
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- The Childhood Acute Illness & Nutrition (CHAIN) Network, Nairobi, Kenya
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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32
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Rerksuppaphol L, Rerksuppaphol S. Efficacy of Adjunctive Zinc in Improving the Treatment Outcomes in Hospitalized Children with Pneumonia: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Trop Pediatr 2020; 66:419-427. [PMID: 31821466 DOI: 10.1093/tropej/fmz082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mortality rate of pneumonia is high, placing a huge burden on developing countries. Healthcare professionals use zinc as an adjunctive treatment for children with pneumonia; however, this contradicts with some published reports. Thus, this study aimed to assess the efficacy of zinc supplementation on the treatment outcomes of pneumonia. METHODS A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on hospitalized children with pneumonia. The children randomly received either zinc bis-glycinate (15 mg elemental zinc) or placebo, twice per day. The primary outcome was the resolution time of pneumonia, and the secondary outcomes were the duration of hospitalization and the recovery times of each clinical symptom. RESULTS Out of the 91 children, 65 (71.4%) were males. The resolution period of clinical pneumonia was significantly shorter in the zinc group than the placebo group (48 and 72 h, respectively; hazard ratio = 0.585, 95% confidence interval 0.377-0.908). Similarly, the hospitalization period and the resolution period of fever were shorter in the zinc group [96 and 144 h (p = 0.008), and 24 and 42 h (p = 0.002), respectively]. Children receiving zinc needed a median of 28 h to reach the normal level of oxygen saturation compared to 48 h required by children under placebo (p = 0.014). CONCLUSION Zinc supplementation enhanced the treatment outcomes of pneumonia, by reducing the resolution period of pneumonia and normalizing oxygen levels and body temperature. The length of hospital stay for children receiving zinc was shorter than those receiving placebo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakkana Rerksuppaphol
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Nakorn Nayok 26120, Thailand
| | - Sanguansak Rerksuppaphol
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Nakorn Nayok 26120, Thailand
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33
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Brown N, Kukka AJ, Mårtensson A. Efficacy of zinc as adjunctive pneumonia treatment in children aged 2 to 60 months in low-income and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Paediatr Open 2020; 4:e000662. [PMID: 32685705 PMCID: PMC7359381 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2020-000662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite advances in vaccination and case management, pneumonia remains the single largest contributor to early child mortality worldwide. Zinc has immune-enhancing properties, but its role in adjunctive treatment of pneumonia in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) is controversial and research still active. METHODS Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials of zinc and placebo in pneumonia in children aged 2 to 60 months in LMICs. Databases included MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, LILACS, SciELO, the WHO portal, Scopus, Google Scholar and ClinicalTrials.gov. Inclusion criteria included accepted signs of pneumonia and clear measure of outcome. Risk of bias was independently assessed by two authors. ORs with 95% CI were used for calculating the pooled estimate of dichotomous outcomes including treatment failure and mortality. Time to recovery was expressed as HRs. Sensitivity analyses considering risk of bias and subgroup analyses for pneumonia severity were performed. RESULTS We identified 11 trials published between 2004 and 2019 fulfilling the a priori defined criteria, 7 from South Asia and 3 from Africa and 1 from South America. Proportional treatment failure was comparable in both zinc and placebo groups when analysed for all patients (OR 0.95 (95% CI 0.80 to 1.14)) and only for those with severe pneumonia (OR 0.93 (95% CI 0.75 to 1.14)). No difference was seen in mortality between zinc and placebo groups (OR 0.64 (95% CI 0.31 to 1.31)). Time to recovery from severe pneumonia did not differ between the treatment and control groups for patients with severe pneumonia (HR 1.01 (95% CI 0.89 to 1.14)). Removal of four studies with high risk of bias made no difference to the conclusions. CONCLUSION There is no evidence that adjunctive zinc treatment improves recovery from pneumonia in children in LMICs. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42019141602.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Brown
- IMCH, Kvinno och barnhälsa, Uppsala Universitet, Uppsala, Sweden
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Piquet MA, Dupont B. Re. "Early nutritional supplementation in non-critically ill patients hospitalized for the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19): rationale and feasibility of a shared pragmatic protocol". Nutrition 2020; 86:110899. [PMID: 32739226 PMCID: PMC7303619 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2020.110899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Astrid Piquet
- Hepatology Gastroenterology Nutrition Department, Caen Normandie University Hospital, France
| | - Benoit Dupont
- Hepatology Gastroenterology Nutrition Department, Caen Normandie University Hospital, France
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Abstract
The immune system protects the host from pathogenic organisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites). To deal with this array of threats, the immune system has evolved to include a myriad of specialised cell types, communicating molecules and functional responses. The immune system is always active, carrying out surveillance, but its activity is enhanced if an individual becomes infected. This heightened activity is accompanied by an increased rate of metabolism, requiring energy sources, substrates for biosynthesis and regulatory molecules, which are all ultimately derived from the diet. A number of vitamins (A, B6, B12, folate, C, D and E) and trace elements (zinc, copper, selenium, iron) have been demonstrated to have key roles in supporting the human immune system and reducing risk of infections. Other essential nutrients including other vitamins and trace elements, amino acids and fatty acids are also important. Each of the nutrients named above has roles in supporting antibacterial and antiviral defence, but zinc and selenium seem to be particularly important for the latter. It would seem prudent for individuals to consume sufficient amounts of essential nutrients to support their immune system to help them deal with pathogens should they become infected. The gut microbiota plays a role in educating and regulating the immune system. Gut dysbiosis is a feature of disease including many infectious diseases and has been described in COVID-19. Dietary approaches to achieve a healthy microbiota can also benefit the immune system. Severe infection of the respiratory epithelium can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), characterised by excessive and damaging host inflammation, termed a cytokine storm. This is seen in cases of severe COVID-19. There is evidence from ARDS in other settings that the cytokine storm can be controlled by n-3 fatty acids, possibly through their metabolism to specialised pro-resolving mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip C Calder
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Stankus T. Reviews of Science for Science Librarians: Vitamins and Trace Elements that May Be Preventive or Ameliorating in This Age of Contagion. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/0194262x.2020.1753630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Tony Stankus
- Health Sciences, University of Arkansas Libraries, Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA
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Marangu D, Zar HJ. Childhood pneumonia in low-and-middle-income countries: An update. Paediatr Respir Rev 2019; 32:3-9. [PMID: 31422032 PMCID: PMC6990397 DOI: 10.1016/j.prrv.2019.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To review epidemiology, aetiology and management of childhood pneumonia in low-and-middle-income countries. DESIGN Review of published English literature between 2013 and 2019. RESULTS Pneumonia remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Risk factors include young age, malnutrition, immunosuppression, tobacco smoke or air pollution exposure. Better methods for specimen collection and molecular diagnostics have improved microbiological diagnosis, indicating that pneumonia results from several organisms interacting. Induced sputum increases microbiologic yield for Bordetella pertussis or Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which has been associated with pneumonia in high TB prevalence areas. The proportion of cases due to Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae b has declined with new conjugate vaccines; Staphylococcus aureus and H. influenzae non-type b are the commonest bacterial pathogens; viruses are the most common pathogens. Effective interventions comprise antibiotics, oxygen and non-invasive ventilation. New vaccines have reduced severity and incidence of disease, but disparities exist in uptake. CONCLUSION Morbidity and mortality from childhood pneumonia has decreased but a considerable preventable burden remains. Widespread implementation of available, effective interventions and development of novel strategies are needed.
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MESH Headings
- Age Factors
- Air Pollution/statistics & numerical data
- Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
- Child Nutrition Disorders/epidemiology
- Child, Preschool
- Developing Countries
- Haemophilus Infections/epidemiology
- Haemophilus Infections/microbiology
- Haemophilus Infections/prevention & control
- Haemophilus Infections/therapy
- Humans
- Infant
- Infant, Newborn
- Noninvasive Ventilation/methods
- Oxygen Inhalation Therapy/methods
- Pneumonia/epidemiology
- Pneumonia/microbiology
- Pneumonia/prevention & control
- Pneumonia/therapy
- Pneumonia, Pneumococcal/epidemiology
- Pneumonia, Pneumococcal/microbiology
- Pneumonia, Pneumococcal/prevention & control
- Pneumonia, Pneumococcal/therapy
- Pneumonia, Staphylococcal/epidemiology
- Pneumonia, Staphylococcal/microbiology
- Pneumonia, Staphylococcal/therapy
- Risk Factors
- Tobacco Smoke Pollution/statistics & numerical data
- Tuberculosis, Pulmonary/epidemiology
- Tuberculosis, Pulmonary/microbiology
- Tuberculosis, Pulmonary/prevention & control
- Tuberculosis, Pulmonary/therapy
- Vaccines/therapeutic use
- Whooping Cough/epidemiology
- Whooping Cough/microbiology
- Whooping Cough/prevention & control
- Whooping Cough/therapy
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Marangu
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya; Department of Paediatrics and Child Health and SA Medical Research Council Unit on Child and Adolescent Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Heather J Zar
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health and SA Medical Research Council Unit on Child and Adolescent Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Mclean LJR. Should zinc be used as an adjunct therapy in severe pneumonia in Western Europe? Arch Dis Child 2019; 104:605-607. [PMID: 30782587 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2018-316642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Laghari GS, Hussain Z, Taimur M, Jamil N. Therapeutic Role of Zinc Supplementation in Children Hospitalized with Pneumonia. Cureus 2019; 11:e4475. [PMID: 31249752 PMCID: PMC6579359 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.4475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pneumonia is one of the major causes of death in children younger than age five, especially in developing countries. The World Health Organization recommends children from a developing country take zinc supplements. We conducted this study to explore the efficacy of zinc supplementation in alleviating symptoms and shortening of hospital stay in children with pneumonia. Materials and methods We conducted this prospective, randomized controlled trial in the Department of Pediatrics, Civil Hospital, Jamshoro. We included 100 children of both genders randomized into two equal groups of zinc-supplemented and non-zinc-supplemented study groups after informed consent was obtained from the parents and legal guardians. The participants were aged 28 days to five years and admitted in the hospital with pneumonia. We monitored for hypoxia, tachypnea, chest indrawing, and cyanosis, and we recorded the total length of hospital stay for each group. Results We found no significant difference in symptom changes (i.e., hypoxia, tachypnea, chest indrawing, and cyanosis) between the zinc and non-zinc groups. However, hospital length of stay was significantly shorter for patients in the zinc-supplemented group compared to the non-zinc-supplemented group. Conclusion Zinc supplementation did not yield a statistically significant reduction in symptoms in children with severe pneumonia. Zinc supplements given during an acute episode are not beneficial in short-term clinical recovery from severe pneumonia in hospitalized children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zahid Hussain
- Pediatrics, National Institute of Child Health, Karachi, PAK
| | - Muhammad Taimur
- Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, PAK
| | - Nasir Jamil
- Miscellaneous, University of Karachi, Karachi, PAK
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Acevedo-Murillo JA, García León ML, Firo-Reyes V, Santiago-Cordova JL, Gonzalez-Rodriguez AP, Wong-Chew RM. Zinc Supplementation Promotes a Th1 Response and Improves Clinical Symptoms in Fewer Hours in Children With Pneumonia Younger Than 5 Years Old. A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. Front Pediatr 2019; 7:431. [PMID: 31803694 PMCID: PMC6874056 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2019.00431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Pneumonia caused 704,000 deaths in children younger than 5 years in 2015. Zinc is an important micronutrient due to its role in immune function. Since 2004, WHO recommends zinc supplementation for children with diarrhea to shorten the duration and decrease severity. Zinc supplementation for children with pneumonia is controversial. Methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted, and 103 children 1 month to 5 years old with pneumonia were included. Zinc or placebo was given during hospitalization. Clinical symptoms were recorded, and a blood draw was obtained to determine serum zinc levels, lymphoproliferation, and cytokines at hospitalization and at discharge of the patient; a nasal wash was obtained to detect viral or bacterial pathogens by multiplex RT-PCR. Results: Zinc supplementation improved in fewer hours the clinical status (76 ± 7 vs. 105 ± 8, p = 0.01), the respiratory rate (37 ± 6 vs. 57 ± 7, p = 0.04), and the oxygen saturation (53 ± 7 vs. 87 ± 9, p = 0.007) compared to the placebo group. An increase in IFNγ and IL-2 after treatment in the zinc group was observed. Conclusions: Zinc supplementation improved some clinical symptoms in children with pneumonia in fewer hours and induced a cellular immune response. Clinical Trial Registration: The trial was retrospectively registered in ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT03690583, URL https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03690583?term=zinc+children&cond=Pneumonia&draw=2&rank=1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miguel Leonardo García León
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Enfermedades Infecciosas, División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Verónica Firo-Reyes
- Servicio de Pediatría, Hospital General de México Dr. Eduardo Liceaga, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jorge Luis Santiago-Cordova
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Enfermedades Infecciosas, División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alejandra Pamela Gonzalez-Rodriguez
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Enfermedades Infecciosas, División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rosa María Wong-Chew
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Enfermedades Infecciosas, División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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