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Rodriguez‐Nava G, El Kamari V, Chang H, Egoryan G, Bonilla HF. New-onset sarcoidosis in a patient with long COVID. Clin Case Rep 2024; 12:e9186. [PMID: 39130813 PMCID: PMC11316136 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.9186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Long COVID, often following SARS-CoV-2 infection, may stem from sustained inflammation, overlapping with autoimmune diseases like sarcoidosis. Though specific treatments lack, this link could shape future diagnostic and therapeutic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Rodriguez‐Nava
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of MedicineStanford University School of MedicineStanfordCaliforniaUSA
| | - Vanessa El Kamari
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of MedicineStanford University School of MedicineStanfordCaliforniaUSA
| | - Harvey Chang
- Department of PathologyMemorial Medical CenterModestoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Goar Egoryan
- Division of Oncology, Department of MedicineStanford University School of MedicineStanfordCaliforniaUSA
| | - Hector F. Bonilla
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of MedicineStanford University School of MedicineStanfordCaliforniaUSA
- Stanford Post‐Acute COVID‐19 Syndrome ClinicStanford Health CareStanfordCaliforniaUSA
- Stanford Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome ClinicStanford Health CareStanfordCaliforniaUSA
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2
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Rahman SM, Buchholz DW, Imbiakha B, Jager MC, Leach J, Osborn RM, Birmingham AO, Dewhurst S, Aguilar HC, Luebke AE. Migraine inhibitor olcegepant reduces weight loss and IL-6 release in SARS-CoV-2-infected older mice with neurological signs. J Virol 2024; 98:e0006624. [PMID: 38814068 PMCID: PMC11265435 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00066-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 can cause neurological symptoms such as fever, dizziness, and nausea. However, such neurological symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection have been hardly assessed in mouse models. In this study, we infected two commonly used wild-type mouse lines (C57BL/6J and 129/SvEv) and a 129S calcitonin gene-related peptide (αCGRP) null-line with mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 and demonstrated neurological signs including fever, dizziness, and nausea. We then evaluated whether a CGRP receptor antagonist, olcegepant, a "gepant" antagonist used in migraine treatment, could mitigate acute neuroinflammatory and neurological signs of SARS-COV-2 infection. First, we determined whether CGRP receptor antagonism provided protection from permanent weight loss in older (>18 m) C57BL/6J and 129/SvEv mice. We also observed acute fever, dizziness, and nausea in all older mice, regardless of treatment. In both wild-type mouse lines, CGRP antagonism reduced acute interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels with virtually no IL-6 release in mice lacking αCGRP. These findings suggest that migraine inhibitors such as those blocking CGRP receptor signaling protect against acute IL-6 release and subsequent inflammatory events after SARS-CoV-2 infection, which may have repercussions for related pandemic or endemic coronavirus outbreaks.IMPORTANCECoronavirus disease (COVID-19) can cause neurological symptoms such as fever, headache, dizziness, and nausea. However, such neurological symptoms of severe acute respiratory syndrome CoV-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection have been hardly assessed in mouse models. In this study, we first infected two commonly used wild-type mouse lines (C57BL/6J and 129S) with mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 and demonstrated neurological symptoms including fever and nausea. Furthermore, we showed that the migraine treatment drug olcegepant could reduce long-term weight loss and IL-6 release associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. These findings suggest that a migraine blocker can be protective for at least some acute SARS-CoV-2 infection signs and raise the possibility that it may also impact long-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shafaqat M. Rahman
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - David W. Buchholz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Brian Imbiakha
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Mason C. Jager
- Department of Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Justin Leach
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Raven M. Osborn
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Ann O. Birmingham
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Stephen Dewhurst
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Hector C. Aguilar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Anne E. Luebke
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
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Al-Hassinah S, Al-Daihan S, Alahmadi M, Alghamdi S, Almulhim R, Obeid D, Arabi Y, Alswaji A, Aldriwesh M, Alghoribi M. Interplay of Demographic Influences, Clinical Manifestations, and Longitudinal Profile of Laboratory Parameters in the Progression of SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Insights from the Saudi Population. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1022. [PMID: 38792852 PMCID: PMC11124088 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12051022] [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: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the factors driving SARS-CoV-2 infection progression and severity is complex due to the dynamic nature of human physiology. Therefore, we aimed to explore the severity risk indicators of SARS-CoV-2 through demographic data, clinical manifestations, and the profile of laboratory parameters. The study included 175 patients either hospitalized at King Abdulaziz Medical City-Riyadh or placed in quarantine at designated hotels in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from June 2020 to April 2021. Hospitalized patients were followed up through the first week of admission. Demographic data, clinical presentations, and laboratory results were retrieved from electronic patient records. Our results revealed that older age (OR: 1.1, CI: [1.1-1.12]; p < 0.0001), male gender (OR: 2.26, CI: [1.0-5.1]; p = 0.047), and blood urea nitrogen level (OR: 2.56, CI: [1.07-6.12]; p = 0.034) were potential predictors of severity level. In conclusion, the study showed that apart from laboratory parameters, age and gender could potentially predict the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the early stages. To our knowledge, this study is the first in Saudi Arabia to explore the longitudinal profile of laboratory parameters among risk factors, shedding light on SARS-CoV-2 infection progression parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Al-Hassinah
- Infectious Diseases Research Department, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.-H.); (S.A.); (Y.A.); (A.A.); (M.A.)
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sooad Al-Daihan
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mashael Alahmadi
- Research Office, Saudi National Institute of Health (SNIH), Riyadh 12382, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sara Alghamdi
- Infectious Diseases Research Department, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.-H.); (S.A.); (Y.A.); (A.A.); (M.A.)
| | - Rawabi Almulhim
- Infection Prevention and Control Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh 14611, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Dalia Obeid
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Yaseen Arabi
- Infectious Diseases Research Department, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.-H.); (S.A.); (Y.A.); (A.A.); (M.A.)
- Intensive Care Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC), Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 14611, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman Alswaji
- Infectious Diseases Research Department, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.-H.); (S.A.); (Y.A.); (A.A.); (M.A.)
| | - Marwh Aldriwesh
- Infectious Diseases Research Department, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.-H.); (S.A.); (Y.A.); (A.A.); (M.A.)
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11481, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majed Alghoribi
- Infectious Diseases Research Department, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.-H.); (S.A.); (Y.A.); (A.A.); (M.A.)
- Department of Basic Science, College of Science and Health Professions, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 14611, Saudi Arabia
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4
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Huang C, Hu X, Wang D, Gong R, Wang Q, Ren F, Wu Y, Chen J, Xiong X, Li H, Wang Q, Long G, Zhang D, Han Y. Multi-cohort study on cytokine and chemokine profiles in the progression of COVID-19. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10324. [PMID: 38710800 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61133-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Various substances in the blood plasma serve as prognostic indicators of the progression of COVID-19. Consequently, multi-omics studies, such as proteomic and metabolomics, are ongoing to identify accurate biomarkers. Cytokines and chemokines, which are crucial components of immune and inflammatory responses, play pivotal roles in the transition from mild to severe illness. To determine the relationship between plasma cytokines and the progression of COVID-19, we used four study cohorts to perform a systematic study of cytokine levels in patients with different disease stages. We observed differential cytokine expression between patients with persistent-mild disease and patients with mild-to-severe transformation. For instance, IL-4 and IL-17 levels significantly increased in patients with mild-to-severe transformation, indicating differences within the mild disease group. Subsequently, we analysed the changes in cytokine and chemokine expression in the plasma of patients undergoing two opposing processes: the transition from mild to severe illness and the transition from severe to mild illness. We identified several factors, such as reduced expression of IL-16 and IL-18 during the severe phase of the disease and up-regulated expression of IL-10, IP-10, and SCGF-β during the same period, indicative of the deterioration or improvement of patients' conditions. These factors obtained from fine-tuned research cohorts could provide auxiliary indications for changes in the condition of COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaolin Huang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
| | - Xujuan Hu
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
| | - Delong Wang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, USTC, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Rui Gong
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, USTC, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Qiongya Wang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
| | - Fuli Ren
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
| | - Yuanjun Wu
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
| | - Juan Chen
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
| | - Xianglian Xiong
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
| | - Huadong Li
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
| | - Gangyu Long
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China
| | - Dingyu Zhang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China.
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, USTC, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China.
| | - Yang Han
- Center for Translational Medicine, The Eighth Clinical College, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China.
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Wuhan, 430023, Hubei, China.
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Longobardi I, Prado DMLD, de Andrade DCO, Goessler KF, de Oliveira Júnior GN, de Almeida Azevedo R, Leitão AE, Santos JVP, Pinto ALDS, Gualano B, Roschel H. Cardiorespiratory abnormalities in ICU survivors of COVID-19 with postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection are unrelated to invasive mechanical ventilation. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 326:H907-H915. [PMID: 38334972 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00073.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Postacute sequelae of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection (PASC) often leads to exertional intolerance and reduced exercise capacity, particularly in individuals previously admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). However, the impact of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) on PASC-associated cardiorespiratory abnormalities during exercise remains poorly understood. This single-center, cross-sectional study aimed to gather knowledge on this topic. Fifty-two patients with PASC recruited ∼6 mo after ICU discharge were clustered based on their need for IMV (PASC + IMV, n = 27) or noninvasive support therapy (PASC + NIS, n = 25). Patients underwent pulmonary function and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) and were compared with a reference group (CONTROL, n = 19) comprising individuals of both sexes with similar age, comorbidities, and physical activity levels but without a history of COVID-19 illness. Individuals with PASC, irrespective of support therapy, presented with higher rates of cardiorespiratory abnormalities than CONTROL, especially dysfunctional breathing patterns, dynamic hyperinflation, reduced oxygen uptake and oxygen pulse, and blunted heart rate recovery (all P < 0.05). Only the rate of abnormal oxygen pulse was greater among PASC + IMV group than PASC + NIS group (P = 0.05). Mean estimates for all CPX variables were comparable between PASC + IMV and PASC + NIS groups (all P > 0.05). These findings indicate significant involvement of both central and peripheral factors, leading to exertional intolerance in individuals with PASC previously admitted to the ICU, regardless of their need for IMV.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We found cardiorespiratory abnormalities in ICU survivors of severe-to-critical COVID-19 with PASC to be independent of IMV need. Overall, both group of patients experienced dysfunctional breathing patterns, dynamic hyperinflation, lower oxygen uptake and oxygen pulse, and blunted heart rate responses to CPX. PASC seems to impact exertional tolerance and exercise capacity due to ventilatory inefficiency, impaired aerobic metabolism, and potential systolic and autonomic dysfunction, all of these irrespective of support therapy during ICU stay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Longobardi
- Applied Physiology and Nutrition Research Group, School of Physical Education and Sport, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Center of Lifestyle Medicine, Laboratory of Assessment and Conditioning in Rheumatology, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Danilo Marcelo Leite do Prado
- Applied Physiology and Nutrition Research Group, School of Physical Education and Sport, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Center of Lifestyle Medicine, Laboratory of Assessment and Conditioning in Rheumatology, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Karla Fabiana Goessler
- Applied Physiology and Nutrition Research Group, School of Physical Education and Sport, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Center of Lifestyle Medicine, Laboratory of Assessment and Conditioning in Rheumatology, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gersiel Nascimento de Oliveira Júnior
- Applied Physiology and Nutrition Research Group, School of Physical Education and Sport, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Center of Lifestyle Medicine, Laboratory of Assessment and Conditioning in Rheumatology, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafael de Almeida Azevedo
- Applied Physiology and Nutrition Research Group, School of Physical Education and Sport, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Center of Lifestyle Medicine, Laboratory of Assessment and Conditioning in Rheumatology, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alice Erwig Leitão
- Applied Physiology and Nutrition Research Group, School of Physical Education and Sport, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Center of Lifestyle Medicine, Laboratory of Assessment and Conditioning in Rheumatology, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jhonnatan Vasconcelos Pereira Santos
- Applied Physiology and Nutrition Research Group, School of Physical Education and Sport, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Center of Lifestyle Medicine, Laboratory of Assessment and Conditioning in Rheumatology, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Lucia de Sá Pinto
- Rheumatology Division, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruno Gualano
- Applied Physiology and Nutrition Research Group, School of Physical Education and Sport, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Center of Lifestyle Medicine, Laboratory of Assessment and Conditioning in Rheumatology, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Rheumatology Division, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Hamilton Roschel
- Applied Physiology and Nutrition Research Group, School of Physical Education and Sport, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Center of Lifestyle Medicine, Laboratory of Assessment and Conditioning in Rheumatology, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Rheumatology Division, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Lam FW, Brown CA, Ronca SE. Recombinant Rod Domain of Vimentin Reduces SARS-CoV-2 Viral Replication by Blocking Spike Protein-ACE2 Interactions. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2477. [PMID: 38473724 PMCID: PMC10931652 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Although the SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is the primary preventive intervention, there are still few antiviral therapies available, with current drugs decreasing viral replication once the virus is intracellular. Adding novel drugs to target additional points in the viral life cycle is paramount in preventing future pandemics. The purpose of this study was to create and test a novel protein to decrease SARS-CoV-2 replication. We created the recombinant rod domain of vimentin (rhRod) in E. coli and used biolayer interferometry to measure its affinity to the SARS-CoV-2 S1S2 spike protein and the ability to block the SARS-CoV-2-ACE2 interaction. We performed plaque assays to measure rhRod's effect on SARS-CoV-2 replication in Vero E6 cells. Finally, we measured lung inflammation in SARS-CoV-2-exposed K18-hACE transgenic mice given intranasal and intraperitoneal rhRod. We found that rhRod has a high affinity for the S1S2 protein with a strong ability to block S1S2-ACE2 interactions. The daily addition of rhRod decreased viral replication in Vero E6 cells starting at 48 h at concentrations >1 µM. Finally, SARS-CoV-2-infected mice receiving rhRod had decreased lung inflammation compared to mock-treated animals. Based on our data, rhRod decreases SARS-CoV-2 replication in vitro and lung inflammation in vivo. Future studies will need to evaluate the protective effects of rhRod against additional viral variants and identify the optimal dosing scheme that both prevents viral replication and host lung injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fong Wilson Lam
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA (S.E.R.)
- Center for Translational Research on Inflammatory Diseases, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Cameron August Brown
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA (S.E.R.)
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Shannon Elizabeth Ronca
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA (S.E.R.)
- William T. Shearer Center for Human Immunobiology, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Birlutiu V, Neamtu B, Birlutiu RM. Identification of Factors Associated with Mortality in the Elderly Population with SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Results from a Longitudinal Observational Study from Romania. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:202. [PMID: 38399417 PMCID: PMC10891894 DOI: 10.3390/ph17020202] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The progression of SARS-CoV-2 infection has been linked to a hospitalization rate of 20%. The susceptibility of SARS-CoV-2 infection increases with age, resulting in severe and atypical clinical forms of the disease. The severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the elderly population can be attributed to several factors, including the overexpression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors, immunosenescence, and alterations in the intestinal microbiota that facilitate the cytokine storm. In light of these observations, we conducted a retrospective analysis based on prospectively collected data between 23 December 2021 and 30 April 2022 (the fourth wave of SARS-CoV-2 infection). We analyzed patients aged over 60 years who were hospitalized in a county hospital in Romania. The primary objective of our study was to assess the risk factors for an unfavorable outcome, while the secondary objective was to assess the clinical and baseline characteristics of the enrolled patients. We included 287 cases with a complete electronic medical record from this available cohort of patients. We aimed to retrospectively evaluate a group of 127 patients that progressed, unfortunately, toward an unfavorable outcome versus 160 patients with a favorable outcome. We used the Combined Ordinal Scale of Severity that combines the WHO ordinal scale and the degrees of inflammation to assess the severity of the patients at the time of the initial assessment. The age group between 70 and 79 years had the highest percentage, accounting for 48.0%-61 patients, of the deceased patients. We noted statistically significant differences between groups related to other cardiovascular diseases, nutritional status, hematological diseases, other neurological/mental or digestive disorders, and other comorbidities. Regarding the nutritional status of the patients, there was a statistically significant unfavorable outcome for all the age groups and the patients with a BMI > 30 kg/m2, p = 0.004. The presence of these factors was associated with an unfavorable outcome. Our results indicate that with the presence of cough, there was a statistically significant favorable outcome in the age group over 80 years, p ≤ 0.049. In terms of the presence of dyspnea in all groups of patients, it was associated with an unfavorable outcome, p ≤ 0.001. In our study, we analyzed laboratory test results to assess the level of inflammation across various WHO categories, focusing on the outcome groups determined by the average values of specific biomarkers. Our findings show that, with the exception of IL-6, all other biomarkers tend to rise progressively with the severity of the disease. Moreover, these biomarkers are significantly higher in patients experiencing adverse outcomes. The differences among severity categories and the outcome group are highly significant (p-values < 0.001). CART algorithm revealed a specific cut-off point for the WHO ordinal scale of 4 to stand out as an important reference value for patients at a high risk of developing critical forms of COVID-19. The high death rate can be attributed to proinflammatory status, hormonal changes, nutritional and vitamin D deficiencies, comorbidities, and atypical clinical pictures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Birlutiu
- Faculty of Medicine, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Str. Lucian Blaga, Nr. 2A, 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (V.B.); (B.N.)
- County Clinical Emergency Hospital, Bvd. Corneliu Coposu, Nr. 2-4, 550245 Sibiu, Romania
| | - Bogdan Neamtu
- Faculty of Medicine, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Str. Lucian Blaga, Nr. 2A, 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (V.B.); (B.N.)
- Pediatric Research Department, Pediatric Clinical Hospital Sibiu, Str. Pompeiu Onofreiu, Nr. 2-4, 550166 Sibiu, Romania
| | - Rares-Mircea Birlutiu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Clinical Hospital of Orthopedics, Traumatology, and Osteoarticular TB Bucharest, B-dul Ferdinand 35-37, Sector 2, 021382 Bucharest, Romania
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Rahman SM, Buchholz DW, Imbiakha B, Jaeger MC, Leach J, Osborn RM, Birmingham AO, Dewhurst S, Aguilar HC, Luebke AE. Migraine inhibitor olcegepant reduces weight loss and IL-6 release in SARS-CoV-2 infected older mice with neurological signs. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.10.23.563669. [PMID: 37965203 PMCID: PMC10634772 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.23.563669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 can result in neurological symptoms such as fever, headache, dizziness, and nausea. However, neurological signs of SARS-CoV-2 infection have been hardly assessed in mouse models. Here, we infected two commonly used wildtype mice lines (C57BL/6 and 129S) with mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 and demonstrated neurological signs including motion-related dizziness. We then evaluated whether the Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist, olcegepant, used in migraine treatment could mitigate acute neuroinflammatory and neurological responses to SARS-COV-2 infection. We infected wildtype C57BL/6J and 129/SvEv mice, and a 129 αCGRP-null mouse line with a mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 virus, and evaluated the effect of CGRP receptor antagonism on the outcome of that infection. First, we determined that CGRP receptor antagonism provided protection from permanent weight loss in older (>12 m) C57BL/6J and 129 SvEv mice. We also observed acute fever and motion-induced dizziness in all older mice, regardless of treatment. However, in both wildtype mouse lines, CGRP antagonism reduced acute interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels by half, with virtually no IL-6 release in mice lacking αCGRP. These findings suggest that migraine inhibitors such as those blocking CGRP signaling protect against acute IL-6 release and subsequent inflammatory events after SARS-CoV-2 infection, which may have repercussions for related pandemic and/or endemic coronaviruses.
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9
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Lu Y, Wang C, Wang Y, Chen Y, Zhao L, Li Y. Case report: Enhancing prognosis in severe COVID-19 through human herpes virus coinfection treatment strategies. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 13:1320933. [PMID: 38268789 PMCID: PMC10806028 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1320933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In the context of increasing reports of co-infection with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), particularly with human herpes viruses (HHVs), it is important to consider the appropriate treatment options for HHVs that have been reactivated by COVID-19. Case presentation This study presents two cases of severe COVID-19 with HHV co-infection. The first case involved a critically ill patient with COVID-19 co-infected with herpes simplex virus type 1, confirmed using metagenomic next-generation sequencing, and another patient with severe COVID-19 experiencing Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) reactivation, as evidenced by elevated EBV-DNA levels in the serum. Treatment included high-dose glucocorticoids and sivelestat sodium, with notable improvements observed after initiating ganciclovir anti-herpesvirus therapy. Conclusion This study underscores the significance of recognizing HHV co-infections in severe COVID-19 cases and highlights the potential of combining anti-HHV treatment, increased glucocorticoid dosages, and anti-cytokine storm therapy to enhance prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Yu Li
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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10
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Bellocchio L, Dipalma G, Inchingolo AM, Inchingolo AD, Ferrante L, Del Vecchio G, Malcangi G, Palermo A, Qendro A, Inchingolo F. COVID-19 on Oral Health: A New Bilateral Connection for the Pandemic. Biomedicines 2023; 12:60. [PMID: 38255167 PMCID: PMC10813615 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010060] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and transmission are generally known to be produced by respiratory droplets and aerosols from the oral cavity (O.C.) of infected subjects, as stated by the World Health Organization. Saliva also retains the viral particles and aids in the spread of COVID-19. Angiotensin-converting enzyme Type 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) are two of the numerous factors that promote SARS-CoV-2 infection, expressed by O.C. structures, various mucosa types, and the epithelia of salivary glands. A systemic SARS-CoV-2 infection might result from viral replication in O.C. cells. On the other hand, cellular damage of different subtypes in the O.C. might be associated with various clinical signs and symptoms. Factors interfering with SARS-CoV-2 infection potential might represent fertile ground for possible local pharmacotherapeutic interventions, which may confine SARS-CoV-2 virus entry and transmission in the O.C., finally representing a way to reduce COVID-19 incidence and severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Bellocchio
- INSERM, U1215 NeuroCentre Magendie, Endocannabinoids and Neuroadaptation, University of Bordeaux, 33063 Bordeaux, France;
| | - Gianna Dipalma
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Study “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.M.I.); (A.D.I.); (L.F.); (G.D.V.); (F.I.)
| | - Angelo Michele Inchingolo
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Study “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.M.I.); (A.D.I.); (L.F.); (G.D.V.); (F.I.)
| | - Alessio Danilo Inchingolo
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Study “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.M.I.); (A.D.I.); (L.F.); (G.D.V.); (F.I.)
| | - Laura Ferrante
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Study “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.M.I.); (A.D.I.); (L.F.); (G.D.V.); (F.I.)
| | - Gaetano Del Vecchio
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Study “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.M.I.); (A.D.I.); (L.F.); (G.D.V.); (F.I.)
| | - Giuseppina Malcangi
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Study “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.M.I.); (A.D.I.); (L.F.); (G.D.V.); (F.I.)
| | - Andrea Palermo
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, Birmingham B4 6BN, UK;
| | - Andis Qendro
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine, 1005 Tirana, Albania;
| | - Francesco Inchingolo
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Study “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.M.I.); (A.D.I.); (L.F.); (G.D.V.); (F.I.)
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11
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Loria V, Aparicio A, Hildesheim A, Cortés B, Barrientos G, Retana D, Sun K, Ocampo R, Prevots DR, Zúñiga M, Waterboer T, Wong-McClure R, Morera M, Butt J, Binder M, Abdelnour A, Calderón A, Gail MH, Pfeiffer RM, Solís CB, Fantin R, Vanegas JC, Mercado R, Ávila C, Porras C, Herrero R. Cohort profile: evaluation of immune response and household transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in Costa Rica: the RESPIRA study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e071284. [PMID: 38070892 PMCID: PMC10729140 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-071284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The RESPIRA cohort aims to describe the nature, magnitude, time course and efficacy of the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination, population prevalence, and household transmission of COVID-19. PARTICIPANTS From November 2020, we selected age-stratified random samples of COVID-19 cases from Costa Rica confirmed by PCR. For each case, two population-based controls, matched on age, sex and census tract were recruited, supplemented with hospitalised cases and household contacts. Participants were interviewed and blood and saliva collected for antibodies and PCR tests. Participants will be followed for 2 years to assess antibody response and infection incidence. FINDINGS TO DATE Recruitment included 3860 individuals: 1150 COVID-19 cases, 1999 population controls and 719 household contacts from 304 index cases. The age and regional distribution of cases was as planned, including four age strata, 30% rural and 70% urban. The control cohort had similar sex, age and regional distribution as the cases according to the study design. Among the 1999 controls recruited, 6.8% reported at enrolment having had COVID-19 and an additional 12.5% had antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. Compliance with visits and specimens has been close to 70% during the first 18 months of follow-up. During the study, national vaccination was implemented and nearly 90% of our cohort participants were vaccinated during follow-up. FUTURE PLANS RESPIRA will enable multiple analyses, including population prevalence of infection, clinical, behavioural, immunological and genetic risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 acquisition and severity, and determinants of household transmission. We are conducting retrospective and prospective assessment of antibody levels, their determinants and their protective efficacy after infection and vaccination, the impact of long-COVID and a series of ancillary studies. Follow-up continues with bimonthly saliva collection for PCR testing and biannual blood collection for immune response analyses. Follow-up will be completed in early 2024. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04537338.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Loria
- Agencia Costarricense de Investigaciones Biomedicas-Fundacion Inciensa, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Amada Aparicio
- Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Allan Hildesheim
- Agencia Costarricense de Investigaciones Biomedicas-Fundacion Inciensa, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Bernal Cortés
- Agencia Costarricense de Investigaciones Biomedicas-Fundacion Inciensa, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Gloriana Barrientos
- Agencia Costarricense de Investigaciones Biomedicas-Fundacion Inciensa, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Daniela Retana
- Agencia Costarricense de Investigaciones Biomedicas-Fundacion Inciensa, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Kaiyuan Sun
- Division of International Epidemiology and Population Studies, Fogarty International Center, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Rebeca Ocampo
- Agencia Costarricense de Investigaciones Biomedicas-Fundacion Inciensa, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - D Rebecca Prevots
- Epidemiology and Population Studies Unit, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, Division of Intramural Research, NIAID, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael Zúñiga
- Agencia Costarricense de Investigaciones Biomedicas-Fundacion Inciensa, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Tim Waterboer
- Infections and Cancer Epidemiology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Melvin Morera
- Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Julia Butt
- Infections and Cancer Epidemiology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marco Binder
- Virus-Associated Carcinogenesis, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Arturo Abdelnour
- Hospital Nacional de Niños, Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | | | - Mitchell H Gail
- Biostatistics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Ruth M Pfeiffer
- Biostatistics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Cristina Barboza Solís
- Public Health Dental Department, Universidad de Costa Rica, Sabanilla de Montes de Oca, Costa Rica
| | - Romain Fantin
- Agencia Costarricense de Investigaciones Biomedicas-Fundacion Inciensa, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Juan Carlos Vanegas
- Agencia Costarricense de Investigaciones Biomedicas-Fundacion Inciensa, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Rachel Mercado
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Carlos Ávila
- Agencia Costarricense de Investigaciones Biomedicas-Fundacion Inciensa, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Carolina Porras
- Agencia Costarricense de Investigaciones Biomedicas-Fundacion Inciensa, San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Rolando Herrero
- Agencia Costarricense de Investigaciones Biomedicas-Fundacion Inciensa, San Jose, Costa Rica
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12
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Goyal H, Sureka B, Mangaraj N, Agarwal A, Kothari N, Garg MK, Banerjee M, Agarwal A, Garg P, Yadav T, Khera P. Comparison between abdominal CT findings in intensive care unit (ICU) and non-ICU patients with Covid-19: experience from a tertiary care hospital. Afr Health Sci 2023; 23:64-74. [PMID: 38974306 PMCID: PMC11225447 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v23i4.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background 16-66% of COVID-19 positive patients may have abdominal symptoms and findings in abdominal CT. The yield of abdominal CT scan in patients having abdominal complaints is not known. Objectives The aim of this study was to explore the various abdominal imaging manifestations of COVID-19 and COVID-19 associated Mucormycosis (CAM) and to identify the relevant clinical and laboratory features associated with severity of the symptoms. Methods A retrospective single centre observational study was performed at a tertiary care hospital in Northwest India. All consecutive patients who had COVID positive RT-PCR report and had undergone abdominal Computed Tomography scan from March 2020 to November 2021 for various abdominal complaints were included. Demographic data, CT images and reports and all relevant lab parameters were collected. Results Out of 75 patients, positive abdominal findings were seen in 65 patients. Hepatobiliary findings were seen in 41.3% (31 of 75; OR=1.9) and bowel abnormalities were found in 37.3% (28 of 75; OR=2.1) of COVID-19 patients. 7 patients who had renal infarcts or bowel ischemia were found to have COVID-19 associated Mucormycosis on histopathology. Conclusion Chest CT severity score was positively correlated with most of the abdominal manifestations in patients requiring ICU admission. Elevated D-dimer levels were significantly associated with abdominal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himanshu Goyal
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences - Jodhpur, India
| | - Binit Sureka
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences - Jodhpur, India
| | - Nachiketa Mangaraj
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences - Jodhpur, India
| | - Ashish Agarwal
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences - Jodhpur, India
| | - Nikhil Kothari
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences - Jodhpur, India
| | - M K Garg
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences - Jodhpur, India
| | - Mithu Banerjee
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences - Jodhpur, India
| | - Ashwini Agarwal
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences - Jodhpur, India
| | - Pawan Garg
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences - Jodhpur, India
| | - Taruna Yadav
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences - Jodhpur, India
| | - Pushpinder Khera
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences - Jodhpur, India
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13
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Lee K, Hwang J, Lee CM. The Usefulness of Present-on-Admission Data as an Indicator of Healthcare Quality Evaluation Using the Korean National Hospital Discharge in-Depth Injury Survey Data from 2006 to 2019. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2023; 16:2309-2320. [PMID: 37953808 PMCID: PMC10637211 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s423555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Comorbidities of a principal diagnosis have varying impacts on disease and require different management depending on the onset timing. This study investigated the usefulness of present-on-admission (POA), specifically focusing on decubitus ulcers, delirium, and hypokalemia, as an indicator of healthcare quality. Patients and Methods We analyzed patient discharge data for 14 years from 2006 to 2019 using Korean National Hospital Discharge In-Depth Injury Survey (KNHDIS). Results Out of 3,231,731 discharged patients, 19,871 had secondary diagnosis codes for decubitus ulcers (n=10,390, 52.3%), delirium (n=6103, 30.7%), or hypokalemia (n=3378, 17.0%). Analysis of patients with secondary diagnoses of decubitus ulcers, delirium, or hypokalemia revealed notable differences in demographics, including gender distribution, mean age, admission route, insurance type, surgical intervention rates, mortality rates, and length of stay (LOS). Among patients with one of the top 20 principal diagnoses, those with secondary diagnoses of decubitus ulcers, delirium, or hypokalemia exhibited higher odds of surgery, increased mortality risks, and longer LOS compared to those without these secondary diagnoses. Conclusion All three of these diseases commonly occur postoperatively or during treatment and thus should be designated as potentially preventable complications that require special attention, and should also be considered as quality-of-care indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyunghee Lee
- Department of Healthcare Management, Eulji University of Korea, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Jieun Hwang
- College of Health and Welfare, Department of Health Administration, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Min Lee
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changwon Hanmaeum Hospital, Changwon, Republic of Korea
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14
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Shoraka S, Mohebbi SR, Hosseini SM, Zali MR. Comparison of plasma mitochondrial DNA copy number in asymptomatic and symptomatic COVID-19 patients. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1256042. [PMID: 37869674 PMCID: PMC10587688 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1256042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, a wide clinical spectrum, from asymptomatic infection to mild or severe disease and death, have been reported in COVID-19 patients. Studies have suggested several possible factors, which may affect the clinical outcome of COVID-19. A pro-inflammatory state and impaired antiviral response have been suggested as major contributing factors in severe COVID-19. Considering that mitochondria have an important role in regulating the immune responses to pathogens, pro-inflammatory signaling, and cell death, it has received much attention in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Recent studies have demonstrated that high levels of cell-free mitochondrial DNA (cf-mtDNA) are associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 intensive care unit (ICU) admission and mortality. However, there have been few studies on cf-mtDNA in SARS-CoV-2 infection, mainly focusing on critically ill COVID-19 cases. In the present study, we investigated cf-mtDNA copy number in COVID-19 patients and compared between asymptomatic and symptomatic cases, and assessed the clinical values. We also determined the cf-nuclear DNA (cf-nDNA) copy number and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) mRNA level in the studied groups. Materials and methods Plasma and buffy coat samples were collected from 37 COVID-19 patients and 33 controls. Briefly, after total DNA extraction, plasma cf-mtDNA, and cf-nDNA copy numbers were measured by absolute qPCR using a standard curve method. Furthermore, after total RNA extraction from buffy coat and cDNA synthesis, TFAM mRNA levels were evaluated by qPCR. Results The results showed that cf-mtDNA levels in asymptomatic COVID-19 patients were statistically significantly higher than in symptomatic cases (p value = 0.01). However, cf-nDNA levels were higher in symptomatic patients than in asymptomatic cases (p value = 0.00). There was no significant difference between TFAM levels in the buffy coat of these two groups (p value > 0.05). Also, cf-mtDNA levels showed good diagnostic potential in COVID-19 subgroups. Conclusion cf-mtDNA is probably important in the outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection due to its role in inflammation and immune response. It can also be a promising candidate biomarker for the diagnosis of COVID-19 subgroups. Further investigation will help understanding the COVID-19 pathophysiology and effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahrzad Shoraka
- Department of Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Reza Mohebbi
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Masoud Hosseini
- Department of Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Zali
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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15
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Badawy AB. The kynurenine pathway of tryptophan metabolism: a neglected therapeutic target of COVID-19 pathophysiology and immunotherapy. Biosci Rep 2023; 43:BSR20230595. [PMID: 37486805 PMCID: PMC10407158 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20230595] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) exerts profound changes in the kynurenine (Kyn) pathway (KP) of tryptophan (Trp) metabolism that may underpin its pathophysiology. The KP is the main source of the vital cellular effector NAD+ and intermediate metabolites that modulate immune and neuronal functions. Trp metabolism is the top pathway influenced by COVID-19. Sixteen studies established virus-induced activation of the KP mediated mainly by induction of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO1) in most affected tissues and of IDO2 in lung by the increased release of proinflammatory cytokines but could additionally involve increased flux of plasma free Trp and induction of Trp 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) by cortisol. The major Kyn metabolite targeted by COVID-19 is kynurenic acid (KA), the Kyn metabolite with the greatest affinity for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), which is also activated by COVID-19. AhR activation initiates two important series of events: a vicious circle involving IDO1 induction, KA accumulation and further AhR activation, and activation of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) leading to NAD+ depletion and cell death. The virus further deprives the host of NAD+ by inhibiting its main biosynthetic pathway from quinolinic acid, while simultaneously acquiring NAD+ by promoting its synthesis from nicotinamide in the salvage pathway. Additionally, the protective effects of sirtuin 1 are minimised by the PARP activation. KP dysfunction may also underpin the mood and neurological disorders acutely and during 'long COVID'. More studies of potential effects of vaccination therapy on the KP are required and exploration of therapeutic strategies involving modulation of the KP changes are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulla Abu-Bakr Badawy
- Formerly School of Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Western Avenue, Cardiff CF5 2YB, Wales, U.K
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16
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Grigorov I, Pejić S, Todorović A, Drakulić D, Veljković F, Vukajlović JM, Bobić K, Soldatović I, Đurašević S, Jasnić N, Stanković S, Glumac S, Mihailović-Vučinić V, Milenković B. Serum High-Mobility Group Box 1 and Heme Oxygenase-1 as Biomarkers in COVID-19 Patients at Hospital Admission. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13164. [PMID: 37685970 PMCID: PMC10488018 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The careful monitoring of patients with mild/moderate COVID-19 is of particular importance because of the rapid progression of complications associated with COVID-19. For prognostic reasons and for the economic management of health care resources, additional biomarkers need to be identified, and their monitoring can conceivably be performed in the early stages of the disease. In this retrospective cross-sectional study, we found that serum concentrations of high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), at the time of hospital admission, could be useful biomarkers for COVID-19 management. The study included 160 randomly selected recovered patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 on admission. Compared with healthy controls, serum HMGB1 and HO-1 levels increased by 487.6 pg/mL versus 43.1 pg/mL and 1497.7 pg/mL versus 756.1 pg/mL, respectively. Serum HO-1 correlated significantly with serum HMGB1, oxidative stress parameters (malondialdehyde (MDA), the phosphatidylcholine/lysophosphatidylcholine ratio (PC/LPC), the ratio of reduced and oxidative glutathione (GSH/GSSG)), and anti-inflammatory acute phase proteins (ferritin, haptoglobin). Increased heme catabolism/hemolysis were not detected. We hypothesize that the increase in HO-1 in the early phase of COVID-19 disease is likely to have a survival benefit by providing protection against oxidative stress and inflammation, whereas the level of HMGB1 increase reflects the activity of the innate immune system and represents levels within which the disease can be kept under control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilijana Grigorov
- Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Snežana Pejić
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.P.); (A.T.); (D.D.); (F.V.); (J.M.V.); (K.B.)
| | - Ana Todorović
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.P.); (A.T.); (D.D.); (F.V.); (J.M.V.); (K.B.)
| | - Dunja Drakulić
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.P.); (A.T.); (D.D.); (F.V.); (J.M.V.); (K.B.)
| | - Filip Veljković
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.P.); (A.T.); (D.D.); (F.V.); (J.M.V.); (K.B.)
| | - Jadranka Miletić Vukajlović
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.P.); (A.T.); (D.D.); (F.V.); (J.M.V.); (K.B.)
| | - Katarina Bobić
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.P.); (A.T.); (D.D.); (F.V.); (J.M.V.); (K.B.)
| | - Ivan Soldatović
- Institute of Medical Statistics and Informatic, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Siniša Đurašević
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.Đ.); (N.J.)
| | - Nebojša Jasnić
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.Đ.); (N.J.)
| | - Sanja Stanković
- Center for Medical Biochemistry, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Sofija Glumac
- Institute of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.G.); (V.M.-V.); (B.M.)
| | - Violeta Mihailović-Vučinić
- Institute of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.G.); (V.M.-V.); (B.M.)
- Clinic for Pulmonary Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Branislava Milenković
- Institute of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.G.); (V.M.-V.); (B.M.)
- Clinic for Pulmonary Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
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Elbeltagi R, Al-Beltagi M, Saeed NK, Bediwy AS. COVID-19-induced gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction: A systematic review. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:5246-5266. [DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i22.5246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is common for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection to occur in the gastrointestinal tract, which can present itself as an initial symptom. The severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is often reflected in the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms. COVID-19 can damage the nerve supply to the digestive system, leading to gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction. There is still much to learn about how COVID-19 affects the autonomic nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract.
AIM To thoroughly explore the epidemiology and clinical aspects of COVID-19-induced gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction, including its manifestations, potential mechanisms, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, impact on quality of life, prognosis, and management and prevention strategies.
METHODS We conducted a thorough systematic search across various databases and performed an extensive literature review. Our review encompassed 113 studies published in English from January 2000 to April 18, 2023.
RESULTS According to most of the literature, gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction can seriously affect a patient's quality of life and ultimate prognosis. Numerous factors can influence gastrointestinal autonomic nervous functions. Studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 has a well-documented affinity for both neural and gastrointestinal tissues, and the virus can produce various gastrointestinal symptoms by reaching neural tissues through different pathways. These symptoms include anorexia, dysgeusia, heartburn, belching, chest pain, regurgitation, vomiting, epigastric burn, diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, irregular bowel movements, and constipation. Diarrhea is the most prevalent symptom, followed by anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Although COVID-19 vaccination may rarely induce autonomic dysfunction and gastrointestinal symptoms, COVID-19-induced autonomic effects significantly impact the patient's condition, general health, prognosis, and quality of life. Early diagnosis and proper recognition are crucial for improving outcomes. It is important to consider the differential diagnosis, as these symptoms may be induced by diseases other than COVID-19-induced autonomic dysfunction. Treating this dysfunction can be a challenging task.
CONCLUSION To ensure the best possible outcomes for COVID-19 patients, it is essential to take a multidisciplinary approach involving providing supportive care, treating the underlying infection, managing dysfunction, monitoring for complications, and offering nutritional support. Close monitoring of the patient's condition is crucial, and prompt intervention should be taken if necessary. Furthermore, conducting thorough research on the gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction caused by COVID-19 is vital to manage it effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Elbeltagi
- Department of Medicine, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland-Medical University of Bahrain, Busiateen 15503, Muharraq, Bahrain
| | - Mohammed Al-Beltagi
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31511, Algharbia, Egypt
- Department of Paediatrics, University Medical Center, Arabian Gulf University, Manama 26671, Manama, Bahrain
- Department of Paediatrics, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama 26671, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Nermin Kamal Saeed
- Medical Microbiology Section, Pathology Department, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Bahrain, Manama 12, Manama, Bahrain
- Microbiology Section, Pathology Department, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland-Medical University of Bahrain, Busaiteen 15503, Muharraq, Bahrain
| | - Adel Salah Bediwy
- Department of Chest Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Algharbia, Egypt
- Department of Pulmonology, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama 26671, Manama, Bahrain
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18
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Elbeltagi R, Al-Beltagi M, Saeed NK, Bediwy AS. COVID-19-induced gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction: A systematic review. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:5252-5272. [PMID: 37621592 PMCID: PMC10445067 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i22.5252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is common for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection to occur in the gastrointestinal tract, which can present itself as an initial symptom. The severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is often reflected in the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms. COVID-19 can damage the nerve supply to the digestive system, leading to gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction. There is still much to learn about how COVID-19 affects the autonomic nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. AIM To thoroughly explore the epidemiology and clinical aspects of COVID-19-induced gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction, including its manifestations, potential mechanisms, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, impact on quality of life, prognosis, and management and prevention strategies. METHODS We conducted a thorough systematic search across various databases and performed an extensive literature review. Our review encompassed 113 studies published in English from January 2000 to April 18, 2023. RESULTS According to most of the literature, gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction can seriously affect a patient's quality of life and ultimate prognosis. Numerous factors can influence gastrointestinal autonomic nervous functions. Studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 has a well-documented affinity for both neural and gastrointestinal tissues, and the virus can produce various gastrointestinal symptoms by reaching neural tissues through different pathways. These symptoms include anorexia, dysgeusia, heartburn, belching, chest pain, regurgitation, vomiting, epigastric burn, diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, irregular bowel movements, and constipation. Diarrhea is the most prevalent symptom, followed by anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Although COVID-19 vaccination may rarely induce autonomic dysfunction and gastrointestinal symptoms, COVID-19-induced autonomic effects significantly impact the patient's condition, general health, prognosis, and quality of life. Early diagnosis and proper recognition are crucial for improving outcomes. It is important to consider the differential diagnosis, as these symptoms may be induced by diseases other than COVID-19-induced autonomic dysfunction. Treating this dysfunction can be a challenging task. CONCLUSION To ensure the best possible outcomes for COVID-19 patients, it is essential to take a multidisciplinary approach involving providing supportive care, treating the underlying infection, managing dysfunction, monitoring for complications, and offering nutritional support. Close monitoring of the patient's condition is crucial, and prompt intervention should be taken if necessary. Furthermore, conducting thorough research on the gastrointestinal autonomic dysfunction caused by COVID-19 is vital to manage it effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Elbeltagi
- Department of Medicine, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland-Medical University of Bahrain, Busiateen 15503, Muharraq, Bahrain
| | - Mohammed Al-Beltagi
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31511, Algharbia, Egypt
- Department of Paediatrics, University Medical Center, Arabian Gulf University, Manama 26671, Manama, Bahrain
- Department of Paediatrics, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama 26671, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Nermin Kamal Saeed
- Medical Microbiology Section, Pathology Department, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Bahrain, Manama 12, Manama, Bahrain
- Microbiology Section, Pathology Department, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland-Medical University of Bahrain, Busaiteen 15503, Muharraq, Bahrain
| | - Adel Salah Bediwy
- Department of Chest Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Algharbia, Egypt
- Department of Pulmonology, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Dr Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama 26671, Manama, Bahrain
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19
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Baldwin KM, Gray S. A Comparison of the 1918 and 2019 Pandemics in the United States. CLIN NURSE SPEC 2023; 37:194-200. [PMID: 37410564 DOI: 10.1097/nur.0000000000000752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT There are eerie similarities between the 1918 Spanish influenza and 2019 COVID-19 pandemics that are somewhat surprising and disheartening, given that the time interval between the 2 pandemics is more than 100 years. This article covers the national response, etiology and pathophysiology, disease course and treatments, nursing shortages, healthcare responses, sequelae following infections, and economic and social impacts of both pandemics. Understanding the development and course of both pandemics will inform clinical nurse specialists about the changes that need to be made to be better prepared to recognize the changes that need to be made to prepare for the next pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen M Baldwin
- Author Affiliations: Nurse Scientist, Texas Health Resources, Fort Worth (Dr Baldwin); and Registered Nurse, Orthopedics, Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Clearfork (Ms Gray), Benbrook
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20
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Eccles R, Boivin G, Cowling BJ, Pavia A, Selvarangan R. Treatment of COVID-19 symptoms with over the counter (OTC) medicines used for treatment of common cold and flu. CLINICAL INFECTION IN PRACTICE 2023; 19:100230. [PMID: 37197288 PMCID: PMC10163789 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinpr.2023.100230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Persons suffering from acute upper respiratory tract viral infections (URTI) commonly use over the counter (OTC) medicines to relieve symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, cough, runny nose, sore throat and nasal congestion. At present OTC medicines are only licensed for treatment of common cold and flu symptoms and not for treatment of the same symptoms associated with COVID-19. The innate immune response responsible for the mechanisms of the symptoms of URTI is the same for all respiratory viruses including SARS-CoV-2 and these symptoms can be relieved by treatment with the same OTC medicines as available for treatment of colds and flu. This review provides scientific information that OTC treatments for common cold and flu-like illness caused by respiratory viruses are safe and effective treatments for the same symptoms associated with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guy Boivin
- Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Benjamin J Cowling
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Andrew Pavia
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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21
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Arunachalam M, Natarajan R, Krishnamurthi M, Gopalakrishnan RK. Clinical and radiographic assessment of periodontal status among patients with post-COVID mucormycosis: A cross-sectional study. J Indian Soc Periodontol 2023; 27:381-385. [PMID: 37593554 PMCID: PMC10431227 DOI: 10.4103/jisp.jisp_429_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background An escalation in cases of rhinomaxillary mucormycosis among post-COVID patients is being reported. However, there is limited information about periodontal features in mucormycosis cases. This study explored the periodontal signs and symptoms among post-COVID mucormycosis individuals. Materials and Methods This cross-sectional study was carried out with a total of 25 post-COVID mucormycosis patients attending tertiary care public teaching hospital. Clinical and radiographic assessments were done. Results An elevation in mean probing pocket depth (PPD) up to 6.21 ± 2.7 mm was noted. Nearly 16%-40% of patients had Miller's Grade III mobility in the affected site. Forty-four per cent had localized single or multiple abscess, 40% had palatal swelling, 32% had necrosis of soft tissue and bone exposure, and 52% had maxillary dentoalveolar segmental mobility in the affected site. Radiographic examination revealed varying stages of interdental bone loss. Conclusion The present study observed an increase in mobility and mean PPD which did not commiserate with interdental bone loss in the affected maxillary region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muthukumaraswamy Arunachalam
- Departments of Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, Tamil Nadu Government Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Rajakumari Natarajan
- Departments of Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, Tamil Nadu Government Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Malathi Krishnamurthi
- Departments of Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, Tamil Nadu Government Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ramesh Kumar Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, Tamil Nadu Government Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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22
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Bowen DR, Pathak S, Nadar RM, Parise RD, Ramesh S, Govindarajulu M, Moore A, Ren J, Moore T, Dhanasekaran M. Oxidative stress and COVID-19-associated neuronal dysfunction: mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2023; 55:1153-1167. [PMID: 37357527 PMCID: PMC10465323 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2023085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-CoV-2 virus causes novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and there is a possible role for oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of neurological diseases associated with COVID-19. Excessive oxidative stress could be responsible for the thrombosis and other neuronal dysfunctions observed in COVID-19. This review discusses the role of oxidative stress associated with SARS-CoV-2 and the mechanisms involved. Furthermore, the various therapeutics implicated in treating COVID-19 and the oxidative stress that contributes to the etiology and pathogenesis of COVID-19-induced neuronal dysfunction are discussed. Further mechanistic and clinical research to combat COVID-19 is warranted to understand the exact mechanisms, and its true clinical effects need to be investigated to minimize neurological complications from COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan R. Bowen
- Department of Drug Discovery and DevelopmentHarrison College of PharmacyAuburn UniversityAuburn-AL36849USA
| | - Suhrud Pathak
- Department of Drug Discovery and DevelopmentHarrison College of PharmacyAuburn UniversityAuburn-AL36849USA
| | - Rishi M. Nadar
- Department of Drug Discovery and DevelopmentHarrison College of PharmacyAuburn UniversityAuburn-AL36849USA
| | - Rachel D. Parise
- Department of Drug Discovery and DevelopmentHarrison College of PharmacyAuburn UniversityAuburn-AL36849USA
| | - Sindhu Ramesh
- Department of Drug Discovery and DevelopmentHarrison College of PharmacyAuburn UniversityAuburn-AL36849USA
| | - Manoj Govindarajulu
- Department of Drug Discovery and DevelopmentHarrison College of PharmacyAuburn UniversityAuburn-AL36849USA
| | - Austin Moore
- Department of Drug Discovery and DevelopmentHarrison College of PharmacyAuburn UniversityAuburn-AL36849USA
| | - Jun Ren
- Department of CardiologyZhongshan Hospital Fudan UniversityShanghai200032China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and PathologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWA98195USA
| | - Timothy Moore
- Department of Drug Discovery and DevelopmentHarrison College of PharmacyAuburn UniversityAuburn-AL36849USA
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23
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Vaz ES, Vassiliades SV, Giarolla J, Polli MC, Parise-Filho R. Drug repositioning in the COVID-19 pandemic: fundamentals, synthetic routes, and overview of clinical studies. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2023; 79:723-751. [PMID: 37081137 PMCID: PMC10118228 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-023-03486-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Drug repositioning is a strategy to identify a new therapeutic indication for molecules that have been approved for other conditions, aiming to speed up the traditional drug development process and reduce its costs. The high prevalence and incidence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) underline the importance of searching for a safe and effective treatment for the disease, and drug repositioning is the most rational strategy to achieve this goal in a short period of time. Another advantage of repositioning is the fact that these compounds already have established synthetic routes, which facilitates their production at the industrial level. However, the hope for treatment cannot allow the indiscriminate use of medicines without a scientific basis. RESULTS The main small molecules in clinical trials being studied to be potentially repositioned to treat COVID-19 are chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, ivermectin, favipiravir, colchicine, remdesivir, dexamethasone, nitazoxanide, azithromycin, camostat, methylprednisolone, and baricitinib. In the context of clinical tests, in general, they were carried out under the supervision of large consortiums with a methodology based on and recognized in the scientific community, factors that ensure the reliability of the data collected. From the synthetic perspective, compounds with less structural complexity have more simplified synthetic routes. Stereochemical complexity still represents the major challenge in the preparation of dexamethasone, ivermectin, and azithromycin, for instance. CONCLUSION Remdesivir and baricitinib were approved for the treatment of hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19. Dexamethasone and methylprednisolone should be used with caution. Hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine, ivermectin, and azithromycin are ineffective for the treatment of the disease, and the other compounds presented uncertain results. Preclinical and clinical studies should not be analyzed alone, and their methodology's accuracy should also be considered. Regulatory agencies are responsible for analyzing the efficacy and safety of a treatment and must be respected as the competent authorities for this decision, avoiding the indiscriminate use of medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Souza Vaz
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Prof. Lineu Prestes Avenue, 580, Bldg 13, SP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra Valeria Vassiliades
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Prof. Lineu Prestes Avenue, 580, Bldg 13, SP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jeanine Giarolla
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Prof. Lineu Prestes Avenue, 580, Bldg 13, SP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Michelle Carneiro Polli
- Pharmacy Course, São Francisco University (USF), Waldemar César da Silveira St, 105, SP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Roberto Parise-Filho
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Prof. Lineu Prestes Avenue, 580, Bldg 13, SP, São Paulo, Brazil.
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24
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García-Dolores F, Tendilla-Beltrán H, Flores F, Carbajal-Rimoldi LA, Mendoza-Morales RC, Gómez-Mendoza LE, Vázquez-Hernández AJ, de la Cruz F, Genis-Mendoza AD, Nicolini H, Flores G. Increased suicide rates in Mexico City during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak: An analysis spanning from 2016 to 2021. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16420. [PMID: 37274652 PMCID: PMC10228161 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has impacted mental health worldwide, and suicide can be a serious outcome of this. Thus, suicide characteristics were examined before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico City. Methods This is a retrospective study including all Mexico City residents who had a coroner's record with a cause of death of intentional self-harm (ICD-10) from January 2016 to December 2021. Results From 2016 to 2021, 3636 people committed suicide, of which 2869 were males (78.9%) and 767 females (21.1%). From 2016 to 2019 the suicide rate remained constant (∼6 per 100000) and dramatically increased in 2020 (10.45 per 100,000), to return to the levels of the previous year in 2021 (6.95 per 100000). The suicide rate in 2020 specifically increased from January to June (COVID-19 outbreak) in all age groups. Moreover, every year young people (15-24 years) have the maximum suicide rate and depression was the main suicide etiology. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic outbreak increased the suicide rate, regardless of age, but suicide prevalence was higher in males and young people, regardless of the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings confirm that suicide is a complex and multifactorial problem and will allow the establishment of new guidelines for prevention and care strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando García-Dolores
- Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Tribunal Superior de Justicia de la Ciudad de México (TSJCDMX), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Hiram Tendilla-Beltrán
- Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Fidel de la Cruz
- Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas (ENCB), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alma Delia Genis-Mendoza
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN), Mexico City, Mexico
- Hospital Psiquiátrico Infantil Dr. Juan N. Navarro, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Humberto Nicolini
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Gonzalo Flores
- Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, Mexico
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25
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Heeralall C, Ibrahim UH, Lazarus L, Gathiram P, Mackraj I. The effects of COVID-19 on placental morphology. Placenta 2023; 138:88-96. [PMID: 37235921 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The impact of the COVID-19 infection, caused by Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), during the pandemic has been considerably more severe in pregnant women than non-pregnant women. Therefore, a review detailing the morphological alterations and physiological changes associated with COVID-19 during pregnancy and the effect that these changes have on the feto-placental unit is of high priority. This knowledge is crucial for these mothers, their babies and clinicians to ensure a healthy life post-pandemic. Hence, we review the placental morphological changes due to COVID-19 to enhance the general understanding of how pregnant mothers, their placentas and unborn children may have been affected by this pandemic. Based on current literature, we deduced that COVID-19 pregnancies were oxygen deficient, which could further result in other pregnancy-related complications like preeclampsia and IUGR. Therefore, we present an up-to-date review of the COVID-19 pathophysiological implications on the placenta, covering the function of the placenta in COVID-19, the effects of this virus on the placenta, its functions and its link to other gestational complications. Furthermore, we highlight the possible effects of COVID-19 therapeutic interventions on pregnant mothers and their unborn children. Based on the literature, we strongly suggest that consistent surveillance for the mothers and infants from COVID-19 pregnancies be prioritised in the future. Though the pandemic is now in the past, its effects are long-term, necessitating the monitoring of clinical manifestations in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Heeralall
- Discipline of Clinical Anatomy, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - U H Ibrahim
- Discipline of Human Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - L Lazarus
- Discipline of Clinical Anatomy, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - P Gathiram
- Discipline of Family Medicine, School of Public Health and Nursing, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - I Mackraj
- Discipline of Human Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
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26
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Goyal PK, Mohammed TO, Mahmoud A, Zaidi AJ, Nguyen CV. COVID-19 infection leading to acute pustular dermatoses. Arch Dermatol Res 2023; 315:685-697. [PMID: 36319703 PMCID: PMC9628627 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-022-02450-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 infection, have been implicated in the development of pustular dermatoses, including generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP). We performed a literature review of existing cases of GPP and AGEP associated with COVID-19 infection and/or treatment reported over a period of 12 months. We summarize the clinical characteristics of these cases and report an additional six new cases of GPP and AGEP. Seven patients with COVID-19 infection were diagnosed with new-onset or exacerbated GPP, and 33 patients were diagnosed with AGEP. In 55% of the cases, no concomitant potential culprit drug trigger was identified. We present this review of cases of COVID-associated acute pustular dermatoses to further contribute to the spectrum of cutaneous eruption associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parul Kathuria Goyal
- Department of Dermatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 676 N St. Clair St, Suite 1600, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
| | - Taha O Mohammed
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ali Mahmoud
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Abu Jaafar Zaidi
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Cuong V Nguyen
- Department of Dermatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 676 N St. Clair St, Suite 1600, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA.
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27
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The paradigm of prophylactic viral outbreaks measures by microbial biosurfactants. J Infect Public Health 2023; 16:575-587. [PMID: 36840992 PMCID: PMC9940476 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent emergence and outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic confirmed the incompetence of countries across the world to deal with a global public health emergency. Although the recent advent of vaccines is an important prophylactic measure, effective clinical therapy for SARS-Cov-2 is yet to be discovered. With the increasing mortality rate, research has been focused on understanding the pathogenic mechanism and clinical parameters to comprehend COVID-19 infection and propose new avenues for naturally occurring molecules with novel therapeutic properties to alleviate the current situation. In accordance with recent clinical studies and SARS-CoV-2 infection markers, cytokine storm and oxidative stress are entwined pathogenic processes in COVID-19 progression. Lately, Biosurfactants (BSs) have been studied as one of the most advanced biomolecules of microbial origin with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral properties, antiadhesive, and antimicrobial properties. Therefore, this review inspects available literature and proposes biosurfactants with these properties to be encouraged for their extensive study in dealing with the current pandemic as new pharmaceutics in the prevention and control of viral spread, treating the symptoms developed after the incubation period through different therapeutic approaches and playing a potential drug delivery model.
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28
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Gajula SNR, Khairnar AS, Jock P, Kumari N, Pratima K, Munjal V, Kalan P, Sonti R. LC-MS/MS: A sensitive and selective analytical technique to detect COVID-19 protein biomarkers in the early disease stage. Expert Rev Proteomics 2023; 20:5-18. [PMID: 36919634 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2023.2191845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 outbreak has put enormous pressure on the scientific community to detect infection rapidly, identify the status of disease severity, and provide an immediate vaccine/drug for the treatment. Relying on immunoassay and a real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) led to many false-negative and false-positive reports. Therefore, detecting biomarkers is an alternative and reliable approach for determining the infection, its severity, and disease progression. Recent advances in liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) enable the protein biomarkers even at low concentrations, thus facilitating clinicians to monitor the treatment in hospitals. AREAS COVERED This review highlights the role of LC-MS/MS in identifying protein biomarkers and discusses the clinically significant protein biomarkers such as Serum amyloid A, Interleukin-6, C-Reactive Protein, Lactate dehydrogenase, D-dimer, cardiac troponin, ferritin, Alanine transaminase, Aspartate transaminase, gelsolin and galectin-3-binding protein in COVID-19, and their analysis by LC-MS/MS in the early stage. EXPERT OPINION Clinical doctors monitor significant biomarkers to understand, stratify, and treat patients according to disease severity. Knowledge of clinically significant COVID-19 protein biomarkers is critical not only for COVID-19 caused by the coronavirus but also to prepare us for future pandemics of other diseases in detecting by LC-MS/MS at the early stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siva Nageswara Rao Gajula
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Balanagar, India
| | - Ankita Sahebrao Khairnar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Balanagar, India
| | - Pallavi Jock
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Balanagar, India
| | - Nikita Kumari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Balanagar, India
| | - Kendre Pratima
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Balanagar, India
| | - Vijay Munjal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Balanagar, India
| | - Pavan Kalan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Balanagar, India
| | - Rajesh Sonti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Balanagar, India
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Transcriptional reprogramming of infiltrating neutrophils drives lung pathology in severe COVID-19 despite low viral load. Blood Adv 2023; 7:778-799. [PMID: 36399523 PMCID: PMC9906672 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2022008834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Troubling disparities in COVID-19-associated mortality emerged early, with nearly 70% of deaths confined to Black/African American (AA) patients in some areas. However, targeted studies on this vulnerable population are scarce. Here, we applied multiomics single-cell analyses of immune profiles from matching airways and blood samples of Black/AA patients during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. Transcriptional reprogramming of infiltrating IFITM2+/S100A12+ mature neutrophils, likely recruited via the IL-8/CXCR2 axis, leads to persistent and self-sustaining pulmonary neutrophilia with advanced features of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) despite low viral load in the airways. In addition, exacerbated neutrophil production of IL-8, IL-1β, IL-6, and CCL3/4, along with elevated levels of neutrophil elastase and myeloperoxidase, were the hallmarks of transcriptionally active and pathogenic airway neutrophilia. Although our analysis was limited to Black/AA patients and was not designed as a comparative study across different ethnicities, we present an unprecedented in-depth analysis of the immunopathology that leads to acute respiratory distress syndrome in a well-defined patient population disproportionally affected by severe COVID-19.
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Opsteen S, Files JK, Fram T, Erdmann N. The role of immune activation and antigen persistence in acute and long COVID. J Investig Med 2023; 71:545-562. [PMID: 36879504 PMCID: PMC9996119 DOI: 10.1177/10815589231158041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
In late 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) triggered the global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Although most infections cause a self-limited syndrome comparable to other upper respiratory viral pathogens, a portion of individuals develop severe illness leading to substantial morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, an estimated 10%-20% of SARS-CoV-2 infections are followed by post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), or long COVID. Long COVID is associated with a wide variety of clinical manifestations including cardiopulmonary complications, persistent fatigue, and neurocognitive dysfunction. Severe acute COVID-19 is associated with hyperactivation and increased inflammation, which may be an underlying cause of long COVID in a subset of individuals. However, the immunologic mechanisms driving long COVID development are still under investigation. Early in the pandemic, our group and others observed immune dysregulation persisted into convalescence after acute COVID-19. We subsequently observed persistent immune dysregulation in a cohort of individuals experiencing long COVID. We demonstrated increased SARS-CoV-2-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses and antibody affinity in patients experiencing long COVID symptoms. These data suggest a portion of long COVID symptoms may be due to chronic immune activation and the presence of persistent SARS-CoV-2 antigen. This review summarizes the COVID-19 literature to date detailing acute COVID-19 and convalescence and how these observations relate to the development of long COVID. In addition, we discuss recent findings in support of persistent antigen and the evidence that this phenomenon contributes to local and systemic inflammation and the heterogeneous nature of clinical manifestations seen in long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Skye Opsteen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jacob K Files
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Tim Fram
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Nathan Erdmann
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Mira AR, De Pinho A, Calado-Araújo M, Ferreira C, David D, Enes M, Vaz-de-Macedo C. COVID-19 and Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy (HDP): A Portuguese Multicentric Retrospective Cohort Study of HDP in SARS-CoV-2 Infected Patients. Cureus 2023; 15:e36483. [PMID: 37090342 PMCID: PMC10118285 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.36483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increased incidence of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) has been reported among pregnant women infected by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the pathogen behind coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). Although it is primarily a respiratory infection, the extra-pulmonary manifestations of COVID-19 mimic those found in preeclampsia (PE). Moreover, the two conditions share common risk factors and pathological mechanisms, hindering the ability to understand the interaction between them. Current literature on this topic is controversial and as there is an overlap of clinical and laboratory findings, HDP can be an overreported outcome in pregnant women with COVID-19. The aim of our study is to assess whether there is an association between maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection and HDP. METHODS We designed a multicenter retrospective cohort study with data collected from five maternity hospitals in Almada, Porto, Lisboa, Penafiel and Coimbra, Portugal, between March 2020 and March 2021. We obtained a sample of 789 pregnant women who were followed up or delivered their babies in one of the participating centers. Each pregnant woman who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 on a real-time polymerase chain reaction test -- exposure group (n= 263), was paired with two negative pregnant women (1:2), who received the same antenatal care and had similar gestational age and parity -- control group (n=526). Data were collected on maternal characteristics, medical history, obstetric outcomes, and delivery. Outcomes: The primary outcome of our study is to assess the incidence of HDP in pregnant women infected and not infected by SARS-CoV-2. The secondary outcomes of our study are to assess the incidence of HDP across all COVID-19 severity subgroups and to assess whether SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy modified the odds of a set of risk factors developing HDP. Results: There was a slightly increased, but not statistically significant, incidence of PE (relative risk, RR, 1.33; 95% confidence interval, CI 0.68-2.57) in the SARS-CoV-2 positive group. There was no statistically significant association between having COVID-19 in pregnancy and developing PE/eclampsia/ hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets, HELLP syndrome [X2(1) = 0.732; p = 0.392] as well as developing gestational hypertension (GH) [X2(1) = 0.039; p = 1]. There was no statistically significant association [X2(2) = 0.402; p = 0.875), [X2(2) = 1.529; p = 0.435] between COVID-19 severity and incidence of HDP. The SARS-CoV-2 infection did not modify the odds of each maternal risk factor causing HDP. Conclusion: Our study did not demonstrate an association between maternal COVID-19 and HDP. We did not observe a significantly increased incidence of HDP in pregnant women infected by SARS-CoV-2. As current literature is controversial on this topic, clinicians should be aware that HDP is a possible complication of maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection and further research studies urge to better assess the association between COVID-19 in pregnancy and HDP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Rita Mira
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, PRT
| | - António De Pinho
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centro Hospitalar Tâmega e Sousa, Penafiel , PRT
| | | | - Catarina Ferreira
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, Lisboa, PRT
| | - Daniela David
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, PRT
| | - Margarida Enes
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, PRT
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Lefol Y, Korfage T, Mjelle R, Prebensen C, Lüders T, Müller B, Krokan H, Sarno A, Alsøe L, Berdal JE, Sætrom P, Nilsen H, Domanska D. TiSA: TimeSeriesAnalysis-a pipeline for the analysis of longitudinal transcriptomics data. NAR Genom Bioinform 2023; 5:lqad020. [PMID: 36879899 PMCID: PMC9985321 DOI: 10.1093/nargab/lqad020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Improved transcriptomic sequencing technologies now make it possible to perform longitudinal experiments, thus generating a large amount of data. Currently, there are no dedicated or comprehensive methods for the analysis of these experiments. In this article, we describe our TimeSeries Analysis pipeline (TiSA) which combines differential gene expression, clustering based on recursive thresholding, and a functional enrichment analysis. Differential gene expression is performed for both the temporal and conditional axes. Clustering is performed on the identified differentially expressed genes, with each cluster being evaluated using a functional enrichment analysis. We show that TiSA can be used to analyse longitudinal transcriptomic data from both microarrays and RNA-seq, as well as small, large, and/or datasets with missing data points. The tested datasets ranged in complexity, some originating from cell lines while another was from a longitudinal experiment of severity in COVID-19 patients. We have also included custom figures to aid with the biological interpretation of the data, these plots include Principal Component Analyses, Multi Dimensional Scaling plots, functional enrichment dotplots, trajectory plots, and complex heatmaps showing the broad overview of results. To date, TiSA is the first pipeline to provide an easy solution to the analysis of longitudinal transcriptomics experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohan Lefol
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1171, Blindern 0318, Norway
- Department of Microbiology, University of Oslo, Rikshospitalet, Oslo 0424, Norway
| | - Tom Korfage
- Cytura Therapeutics BV, Kloosterstraat 9, Oss 5349AB, The Netherlands
| | - Robin Mjelle
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Erling Skjalgsons gate 1, Trondheim 7491, Norway
| | - Christian Prebensen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1171, Blindern 0318, Norway
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo 0424, Norway
| | - Torben Lüders
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1171, Blindern 0318, Norway
- Department of Clinical Molecular Biology, Akershus University Hotspital, Lørenskog 1478, Norway
| | - Bruno Müller
- Microsynth AG, Schützenstrasse 15, Balgach CH-9436, Switzerland
| | - Hans Krokan
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Erling Skjalgsons gate 1, Trondheim 7491, Norway
| | - Antonio Sarno
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Erling Skjalgsons gate 1, Trondheim 7491, Norway
| | - Lene Alsøe
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1171, Blindern 0318, Norway
- Department of Microbiology, University of Oslo, Rikshospitalet, Oslo 0424, Norway
| | | | - Jan-Erik Berdal
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1171, Blindern 0318, Norway
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hotspital, Lørenskog 1478, Norway
| | - Pål Sætrom
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Erling Skjalgsons gate 1, Trondheim 7491, Norway
- Department of Computer and Information Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Sem Sælandsvei 9 Gløshaugen, Trondheim 7491, Norway
- Bioinformatics Core Facility-BioCore, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Erling Skjalgsons gate 1, Trondheim 7491, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Genetic Epidemiology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Håkon Jarls gate 11, Trondheim 7491, Norway
| | - Hilde Nilsen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1171, Blindern 0318, Norway
- Department of Microbiology, University of Oslo, Rikshospitalet, Oslo 0424, Norway
| | - Diana Domanska
- Department of Microbiology, University of Oslo, Rikshospitalet, Oslo 0424, Norway
- Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital-Rikshospitalet, Sognsvannsveien 20, Oslo 0372, Norway
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Decoding the bidirectional relationship between gut microbiota and COVID-19. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13801. [PMID: 36811017 PMCID: PMC9936796 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
From late 2019, whole world has been facing COVID-19 pandemic which is caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus. This virus primarily attacks the respiratory tract and enter host cell by binding with angiotensin 2 converting enzyme receptors present on alveoli of the lungs. Despite its binding in the lungs, many patients have reported gastrointestinal symptoms and indeed, RNA of the virus have been found in faecal sample of patients. This observation gave a clue of the involvement of gut-lung axis in this disease development and progression. From several studies reported in past two years, intestinal microbiome has shown to have bidirectional link with lungs i.e., gut dysbiosis increases the tendency of infection with COVID-19 and coronavirus can also cause perturbations in intestinal microbial composition. Thus, in this review we have tried to figure out the mechanisms by which disturbances in the gut composition can increase the susceptibility to COVID-19. Understanding these mechanisms can play a crucial role in decreasing the disease outcomes by manipulating the gut microbiome using prebiotics, probiotics, or combination of two. Even, faecal microbiota transplantation can also show better results, but intensive clinical trials need to be done first.
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Gravrand V, Mellot F, Ackermann F, Ballester MC, Zuber B, Kirk JT, Navalkar K, Yager TD, Petit F, Pascreau T, Farfour E, Vasse M. Stratification of COVID-19 Severity Using SeptiCyte RAPID, a Novel Host Immune Response Test. Viruses 2023; 15:419. [PMID: 36851633 PMCID: PMC9960895 DOI: 10.3390/v15020419] [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: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
SeptiCyte® RAPID is a gene expression assay measuring the relative expression levels of host response genes PLA2G7 and PLAC8, indicative of a dysregulated immune response during sepsis. As severe forms of COVID-19 may be considered viral sepsis, we evaluated SeptiCyte RAPID in a series of 94 patients admitted to Foch Hospital (Suresnes, France) with proven SARS-CoV-2 infection. EDTA blood was collected in the emergency department (ED) in 67 cases, in the intensive care unit (ICU) in 23 cases and in conventional units in 4 cases. SeptiScore (0-15 scale) increased with COVID-19 severity. Patients in ICU had the highest SeptiScores, producing values comparable to 8 patients with culture-confirmed bacterial sepsis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.81 for discriminating patients requiring ICU admission from patients who were immediately discharged or from patients requiring hospitalization in conventional units. SeptiScores increased with the extent of the lung injury. For 68 patients, a chest computed tomography (CT) scan was performed within 24 h of COVID-19 diagnosis. SeptiScore >7 suggested lung injury ≥50% (AUC = 0.86). SeptiCyte RAPID was compared to other biomarkers for discriminating Critical + Severe COVID-19 in ICU, versus Moderate + Mild COVID-19 not in ICU. The mean AUC for SeptiCyte RAPID was superior to that of any individual biomarker or combination thereof. In contrast to C-reactive protein (CRP), correlation of SeptiScore with lung injury was not impacted by treatment with anti-inflammatory agents. SeptiCyte RAPID can be a useful tool to identify patients with severe forms of COVID-19 in ED, as well as during follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Felix Ackermann
- Internal Medicine Department, Foch Hospital, 92150 Suresnes, France
| | | | - Benjamin Zuber
- Intensive Care Unit, Foch Hospital, 92150 Suresnes, France
| | | | | | | | - Fabien Petit
- Biology Department, Foch Hospital, 92150 Suresnes, France
| | - Tiffany Pascreau
- Biology Department, Foch Hospital, 92150 Suresnes, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), UMR-S1176, 94270 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Eric Farfour
- Biology Department, Foch Hospital, 92150 Suresnes, France
| | - Marc Vasse
- Biology Department, Foch Hospital, 92150 Suresnes, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), UMR-S1176, 94270 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
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Almazmomi MA, Alsieni M. Targeting TLR-4 Signaling to Treat COVID-19-induced Acute Kidney Injury. J Pharmacol Pharmacother 2023. [DOI: 10.1177/0976500x221147798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The newly discovered severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) has turned into a potentially fatal pandemic illness. Numerous acute kidney injury (AKI) cases have been reported, although diffuse alveolar destruction and acute respiratory failure are the major symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The AKI, often known as a sudden loss of kidney function, carries a greater risk of mortality and morbidity. AKI was the second most frequent cause of death after acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in critically ill patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). While most patients with COVID-19 have moderate symptoms, some have severe symptoms, such as septic shock and ARDS. Also, it has been proven that some patients have severe symptoms, such as the failure of several organs. The kidneys are often affected either directly or indirectly. The major signs of kidney involvement are proteinuria and AKI. It is hypothesized that multiple mechanisms contribute to kidney injury in COVID-19. Direct infection of podocytes and proximal tubular cells in the kidneys may lead to acute tubular necrosis and collapsing glomerulopathy. SARS-CoV2 may also trigger a cascade of immunological responses that lead to AKI, including cytokine storm (CS), macrophage activation syndrome, and Toll-like receptor type-4 activation (TLR-4). Other proposed processes of AKI include interactions between organs, endothelial failure, hypercoagulability, rhabdomyolysis, and sepsis. Furthermore, ischemic damage to the kidney might result from the decreased oxygen supply. This article focuses on kidney injury’s epidemiology, etiology, and pathophysiological processes. Specifically, it focuses on the CS and the role of TLR-4 in this process. To effectively manage and treat acute kidney damage and AKI in COVID-19, it is crucial to understand the underlying molecular pathways and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meaad A. Almazmomi
- Pharmaceutical Care Department, Ministry of National Guard—Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Alsieni
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Sex differences in D-dimer and critical illness in patients with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Res Pract Thromb Haemost 2023; 7:100042. [PMID: 36685003 PMCID: PMC9840223 DOI: 10.1016/j.rpth.2023.100042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Observed sex differences in COVID-19 outcomes suggest that men are more likely to experience critical illness and mortality. Thrombosis is common in severe COVID-19, and D-dimer is a significant marker for COVID-19 severity and mortality. It is unclear whether D-dimer levels differ between men and women, and the effect of D-dimer levels on disease outcomes remains under investigation. Objectives We aimed to evaluate the sex difference in the D-dimer level among hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and the effect of sex and D-dimer level on disease outcomes. Methods We meta-analyzed articles reporting D-dimer levels in men and women hospitalized for COVID-19, until October 2021, using random effects. Primary outcomes were mortality, critical illness, and thrombotic complications. Results In total, 11,682 patients from 10 studies were analyzed (N = 5606 men (55.7%), N = 5176 women (44.3%)). Men had significantly higher odds of experiencing mortality (odds ratios (OR) = 1.41, 95% CI: [1.25, 1.59], P ≤ .001, I2 = 0%) and critical illness (OR = 1.76, 95% CI: [1.43, 2.18], P ≤ .001, I2 = 61%). The mean D-dimer level was not significantly different between men and women (MD = 0.08, 95% CI: [-0.23, 0.40], P = .61, I2 = 52%). In the subgroup analysis, men had significantly higher odds of experiencing critical illness compared with women in both the "higher" (P = .006) and "lower" (P = .001) D-dimer subgroups. Conclusion Men have significantly increased odds of experiencing poor COVID-19 outcomes compared with women. No sex difference was found in the D-dimer level between men and women with COVID-19. The diversity in D-dimer reporting impacts data interpretation and requires further attention.
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Yang H, Xie Y, Li C. Understanding the mechanisms for COVID-19 vaccine's protection against infection and severe disease. Expert Rev Vaccines 2023; 22:186-192. [PMID: 36715150 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2023.2174529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multiple COVID-19 vaccines have been approved and employed in the fight against the pandemic. However, these vaccines have limited long-term effectiveness against severe cases and a decreased ability to prevent mild disease. AREAS COVERED This review discusses the relevant factors influencing the efficacy of the vaccines against mild and severe infection, analyzes the possible underlying mechanisms contributing to the different outcomes in terms of vaccine function and disease progression, and proposes improvements for the next generation of vaccines. EXPERT OPINION The reduced efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine in the prevention of viral infection is closely related to the emergence of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants and their rapid transmission ability. Fundamentally, the immune responses induced by COVID-19 vaccines cannot effectively halt virus replication in the upper respiratory tract because only a limited number of specific antibodies reach these areas and decrease in concentration over time. However, the established immune response can provide sufficient protection against severe diseases by blocking viral infection of the lower respiratory tract or lung owing to sufficient antibody repertoires and memory responses. Considering this situation, future COVID-19 vaccines should have the potential to replenish the mucosal immune response in the respiratory tract to prevent viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijie Yang
- Divsion of respiratory virus vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Xie
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, China
| | - Changgui Li
- Divsion of respiratory virus vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
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Kalaiselvan P, Yingchoncharoen P, Thongpiya J, Motes A, Nugent K. COVID-19 Infections and Inflammatory Markers in Patients Hospitalized During the First Year of the Pandemic. J Prim Care Community Health 2023; 14:21501319231206911. [PMID: 37864436 PMCID: PMC10590050 DOI: 10.1177/21501319231206911] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical presentations in patients with SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infections range from asymptomatic upper respiratory infections to acute respiratory failure with bilateral pulmonary infiltrates requiring mechanical ventilation. Clinicians often measured inflammatory markers in hospitalized patients to characterize the severity of the infection. Multiple studies published in 2020 reported information on the frequency of elevated inflammatory markers in hospitalized patients in various categories of disease severity. METHODS The PubMed database was searched using the terms "Inflammatory markers in COVID-19 patients" and "Clinical features of patients infected with COVID-19." Thirty-three publications were analyzed in detail to determine which inflammatory markers were increased and the frequency of these increases in various clinical classifications, including patients requiring hospitalization, patients with pneumonia, patients with severe infection, patients requiring intensive care unit admission, and patients who died. RESULTS C-reactive protein (CRP) was the most frequently elevated inflammatory marker in all categories. Ferritin, D-dimer, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate levels were also frequently elevated. In general, frequencies were higher in patients with more severe infections. For example, 24 out of 24 patients who died had an elevated CRP level. CONCLUSION This review provides concrete information about the frequency of various inflammatory markers in patients with COVID-19 infection who required hospitalization. It also provides us some insight into the approach clinicians took in the early phase of this pandemic in their efforts to characterize these patients and perhaps understand the disease process better. However, these results might suggest that clinicians and laboratory directors should develop protocols to optimize laboratory testing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Arunee Motes
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Kenneth Nugent
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
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Van Delen M, Janssens I, Dams A, Roosens L, Ogunjimi B, Berneman ZN, Derdelinckx J, Cools N. Tolerogenic Dendritic Cells Induce Apoptosis-Independent T Cell Hyporesponsiveness of SARS-CoV-2-Specific T Cells in an Antigen-Specific Manner. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315201. [PMID: 36499533 PMCID: PMC9740551 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the global pandemic caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still ongoing, there are currently no specific and highly efficient drugs for COVID-19 available, particularly in severe cases. Recent findings demonstrate that severe COVID-19 disease that requires hospitalization is associated with the hyperactivation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cell subsets. In this study, we aimed to counteract this high inflammatory state by inducing T-cell hyporesponsiveness in a SARS-CoV-2-specific manner using tolerogenic dendritic cells (tolDC). In vitro-activated SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells were isolated and stimulated with SARS-CoV-2 peptide-loaded monocyte-derived tolDC or with SARS-CoV-2 peptide-loaded conventional (conv) DC. We demonstrate a significant decrease in the number of interferon (IFN)-γ spot-forming cells when SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells were stimulated with tolDC as compared to stimulation with convDC. Importantly, this IFN-γ downmodulation in SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells was antigen-specific, since T cells retain their capacity to respond to an unrelated antigen and are not mediated by T cell deletion. Altogether, we have demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 peptide-pulsed tolDC induces SARS-CoV-2-specific T cell hyporesponsiveness in an antigen-specific manner as compared to stimulation with SARS-CoV-2-specific convDC. These observations underline the clinical potential of tolDC to correct the immunological imbalance in the critically ill.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mats Van Delen
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ibo Janssens
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Amber Dams
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Laurence Roosens
- Laboratory of Clinical Biology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Benson Ogunjimi
- Centre for Health Economics Research & Modeling Infectious Diseases (CHERMID), VAXINFECTIO, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Paediatrics, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
- Antwerp Center for Translational Immunology and Virology (ACTIV), VAXINFECTIO, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Antwerp Unit for Data Analysis and Computation in Immunology and Sequencing (AUDACIS), University of Antwerp, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Zwi N. Berneman
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Center for Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Judith Derdelinckx
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Cools
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Center for Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
- Correspondence:
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Minata M, Harada KH, Yamaguchi T, Fujitani T, Nakagawa H. Diabetes Mellitus May Exacerbate Liver Injury in Patients with COVID-19: A Single-Center, Observational, Retrospective Study. Diabetes Ther 2022; 13:1847-1860. [PMID: 36136238 PMCID: PMC9493161 DOI: 10.1007/s13300-022-01318-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is having a profound effect on global health. In this study, we investigated early predictors of severe prognosis from the perspective of liver injury and risk factors for severe liver injury in patients with COVID-19. METHODS We examined prognostic markers and risk factors for severe liver injury by analyzing clinical data measured throughout the course of the illness and the disease severity of 273 patients hospitalized for COVID-19. We assessed liver injury on the basis of aminotransferase concentrations and fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index on admission, peak aminotransferase concentration during hospitalization, aminotransferase peak-to-average ratio, and albumin and total bilirubin concentrations. Furthermore, we analyzed age, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) concentrations, FIB-4 index on admission, hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), dyslipidemia, cerebral infarction, myocardial infarction, and body mass index as mortality risk factors. RESULTS We identified advanced age as a risk factor. Among biochemical variables, AST concentration and FIB-4 index on admission were associated with high mortality. AST on admission and peak AST during hospitalization were significantly higher in the non-surviving (n = 45) than the discharged group (n = 228). Multivariable Cox hazards analyses for mortality showed significant hazard ratios for age, peak AST, and FIB-4 index on admission (p = 0.0001 and 0.0108, respectively), but not in a model including AST and FIB-4 index on admission. Furthermore, the AST peak was significantly higher among non-surviving patients with DM than in those without DM. CONCLUSIONS We found that advanced age, high AST, and FIB-4 index on admission and a higher peak AST during hospitalization are risk factors for poor COVID-19 prognosis. Furthermore, DM was a risk factor for exacerbation of liver injury among non-surviving patients. The AST concentration and FIB-4 index should be assessed periodically throughout hospitalization, especially in patients with high AST values on admission and those with DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mutsuko Minata
- Research Institute, Nozaki Tokushukai Hospital, 10-50, 2-chome, Tanigawa, Daito, Osaka, 574-0074, Japan.
- Nozaki Tokushukai Hospital, 10-50, 2-chome, Tanigawa, Daito, Osaka, 574-0074, Japan.
| | - Kouji H Harada
- Department of Health and Environmental Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Konoe-cho Yoshida Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Yamaguchi
- Research Institute, Nozaki Tokushukai Hospital, 10-50, 2-chome, Tanigawa, Daito, Osaka, 574-0074, Japan
- Nozaki Tokushukai Hospital, 10-50, 2-chome, Tanigawa, Daito, Osaka, 574-0074, Japan
| | - Tomoko Fujitani
- Department of Health and Environmental Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Konoe-cho Yoshida Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
| | - Hidemitsu Nakagawa
- Research Institute, Nozaki Tokushukai Hospital, 10-50, 2-chome, Tanigawa, Daito, Osaka, 574-0074, Japan
- Nozaki Tokushukai Hospital, 10-50, 2-chome, Tanigawa, Daito, Osaka, 574-0074, Japan
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Baskol G, Özel M, Saracoglu H, Ulger B, Kalin Unuvar G, Onuk S, Bayram A, Karayol Akin A, Muhtaroglu S, Sagiroglu P, Kilic E. New Avenues to Explore in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Both TRIM25 and TRIM56 Positively Correlate with VEGF, GAS6, and sAXL in COVID-19 Patients. Viral Immunol 2022; 35:690-699. [PMID: 36450108 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2022.0112] [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] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic poses a significant threat to human health. Many hypotheses regarding pathogenesis have been proposed and are being tried to be clarified by experimental and clinical studies. This study aimed to reveal the roles of the innate immune system modulator GAS6/sAXL pathway, endothelial dysfunction markers vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α, and antiviral effective TRIM25 and TRIM56 proteins in pathogenesis of COVID-19. The study included 55 patients with COVID-19 and 25 healthy individuals. The serum levels of GAS6, sAXL, VEGF, HIF-1α, TRIM25, and TRIM56 were measured using commercial ELISA kits and differences between COVID-19 patients and healthy controls, and the relationship to severity and prognosis were evaluated. GAS6, sAXL, TRIM56, and VEGF were found to be higher, while TRIM25 was lower in patients. There were strong positive correlations between GAS6, sAXL, TRIM25, TRIM56, and VEGF. None of the research parameters other than HIF-1α was associated with severity or prognosis. However, HIF-1α was positively correlated with APACHE II. We speculate that the antiviral effective TRIM25 and TRIM56 proteins, as well as the GAS6/sAXL pathway, act together as a defense mechanism in COVID-19. We hope that our study will contribute to further studies to elucidate the molecular mechanism associated with TRIM56, TRIM25, GAS6, sAXL, and VEGF in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gülden Baskol
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Merve Özel
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Hatice Saracoglu
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Birkan Ulger
- Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Gamze Kalin Unuvar
- Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Sevda Onuk
- Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Adnan Bayram
- Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Aynur Karayol Akin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Sabahattin Muhtaroglu
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Pinar Sagiroglu
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Eser Kilic
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
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Maranduca MA, Vamesu CG, Tanase DM, Clim A, Drochioi IC, Pinzariu AC, Filip N, Dima N, Tudorancea I, Serban DN, Serban IL. The RAAS Axis and SARS-CoV-2: From Oral to Systemic Manifestations. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58121717. [PMID: 36556919 PMCID: PMC9784172 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58121717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the essential regulators of arterial blood pressure, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) seems to be one of the most complex mechanisms in the human body. Since the discovery of its key components and their actions, new substances and functions are still being unraveled. The main pathway begins with the secretion of renin in the kidney and culminates with the synthesis of angiotensin II (Ang II)-a strong vasoconstrictor-thanks to the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). Research conducted in 2000 identified another enzyme, named ACE2, that converts Ang II into Ang-(1-7), a heptapeptide with opposing effects to those of Ang II: vasodilation and anti-inflammatory properties. This particular enzyme became of paramount importance during the last two decades, as a result of the confrontation of the human race with life-threatening epidemics. Multiple studies have been performed in order to uncover the link between ACE2 and human coronaviruses, the results of which we systemized in order to create an overview of the pathogenic mechanism. Human coronaviruses, such as SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2, attach to ACE2 via their spike proteins (S), causing the destruction of the enzyme. Because ACE2 limits the production of Ang II (by converting it into Ang-(1-7)), its destruction leads to a dysregulated inflammatory response. The purpose of this review is to decipher the complex pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the multiorgan complications (oral, cardiac, pulmonary, systemic) that appear as a result of the interaction of the SARS CoV-2 virus with the angiotensin-converting enzyme type 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minela Aida Maranduca
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Internal Medicine Clinic, “St. Spiridon” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Calin George Vamesu
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Daniela Maria Tanase
- Internal Medicine Clinic, “St. Spiridon” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Andreea Clim
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ilie Cristian Drochioi
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Reconstructive, Faculty of Dental Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700020 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.C.D.); (A.C.P.)
| | - Alin Constantin Pinzariu
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.C.D.); (A.C.P.)
| | - Nina Filip
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Biochemistry, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Nicoleta Dima
- Internal Medicine Clinic, “St. Spiridon” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ionut Tudorancea
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Cardiology Clinic, “St. Spiridon” County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 700111 Iasi, Romania
| | - Dragomir Nicolae Serban
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ionela Lacramioara Serban
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Discipline of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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Singh MB, Vishvakarma VK, Lal AA, Chandra R, Jain P, Singh P. A comparative study of 5- fluorouracil, doxorubicin, methotrexate, paclitaxel for their inhibition ability for Mpro of nCoV: Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. J INDIAN CHEM SOC 2022. [PMCID: PMC9632266 DOI: 10.1016/j.jics.2022.100790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
A new corona virus (nCoV) is aetiological agent responsible for the viral pneumonia epidemic. Three is no specific therapeutic medicines available for the treatment of this condition and also effective treatment choices are few. In this work author tried to investigate some repurposing drug such as 5- fluorouracil, doxorubicin, methotrexate and paclitaxel against the main protease (Mpro) of nCoV by the computational model. Molecular docking was performed to screen out the best compound and doxorubicin was found to have minimum binding energy −121.89 kcal/mol. To further study, MD simulations were performed at 300 K and the result successfully corroborate the energy obtained by molecular docking. Temperature dependent MD simulation of the best molecule that is doxorubicin obtained from docking result was performed to check the variation in structural changes in Mpro of nCoV at 290 K, 310 K, 320 K and 325 K. It is sound that doxorubicin binds effectively with Mpro of nCoV at 290 K. Further ADME properties of the 5- fluorouracil, doxorubicin, methotrexate and paclitaxel were also evaluated to understand the bioavailability.
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Admission Predictors of Mortality in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients-A Serbian Cohort Study. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11206109. [PMID: 36294430 PMCID: PMC9605560 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11206109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Early prediction of COVID-19 patients’ mortality risk may be beneficial in adequate triage and risk assessment. Therefore, we aimed to single out the independent morality predictors of hospitalized COVID-19 patients among parameters available on hospital admission. Methods: An observational, retrospective−prospective cohort study was conducted on 703 consecutive COVID-19 patients hospitalized in the University Clinical Center Kragujevac between September and December 2021. Patients were followed during the hospitalization, and in-hospital mortality was observed as a primary end-point. Within 24 h of admission, patients were sampled for blood gas and laboratory analysis, including complete blood cell count, inflammation biomarkers and other biochemistry, coagulation parameters, and cardiac biomarkers. Socio-demographic and medical history data were obtained using patients’ medical records. Results: The overall prevalence of mortality was 28.4% (n = 199). After performing multiple regression analysis on 20 parameters, according to the initial univariate analysis, only four independent variables gave statistically significant contributions to the model: SaO2 < 88.5 % (aOR 3.075), IL-6 > 74.6 pg/mL (aOR 2.389), LDH > 804.5 U/L (aOR 2.069) and age > 69.5 years (aOR 1.786). The C-index of the predicted probability calculated using this multivariate logistic model was 0.740 (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Parameters available on hospital admission can be beneficial in predicting COVID-19 mortality.
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De Vitis C, Capalbo C, Torsello A, Napoli C, Salvati V, Loffredo C, Blandino G, Piaggio G, Auciello FR, Pelliccia F, Salerno G, Simmaco M, Di Magno L, Canettieri G, Coluzzi F, Mancini R, Rocco M, Sciacchitano S. Opposite Effect of Thyroid Hormones on Oxidative Stress and on Mitochondrial Respiration in COVID-19 Patients. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11101998. [PMID: 36290721 PMCID: PMC9598114 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11101998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Thyroid hormones (TH)s are master regulators of mitochondrial activity and biogenesis. Nonthyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS) is generally considered an adaptative response to reduced energy that is secondary to critical illness, including COVID-19. COVID-19 has been associated with profound changes in the cell energy metabolism, especially in the cells of the immune system, with a central role played by the mitochondria, considered the power units of every cell. Infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) affects and alters mitochondrial functions, both to influence its intracellular survival and to evade host immunity. Aim of the study: This study was undertaken to analyze the oxidative balance and mitochondrial respiration in COVID-19 patients with and without NTIS to elucidate the role that thyroid hormones (TH)s play in this context. Methods: In our cohort of 54 COVID-19 patients, admitted to our University Hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic, we evaluated the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by measuring the serum levels of derivatives of reactive oxygen metabolites (dROMs), and we analyzed the antioxidant capacity by measuring the serum biological antioxidant potential (BAP). We then analyzed the mitochondrial respiration in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC)s of 28 of our COVID-19 patients, using the seahorse instrument (Agilent). Results were correlated with the serum levels of THs and, in particular, of FT3. In addition, the role of T3 on bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and mitochondrial respiration parameters was directly evaluated in two COVID-19 patients with NTIS, in which treatment with synthetic liothyronine (LT3) was given both in vivo and in vitro. Results: In our COVID-19 patients with NTIS, the dROMs values were significantly lower and the BAP values were significantly higher. Consequently, the oxidative stress index (OSi), measured as BAP/dROMs ratio was reduced compared to that observed in COVID-19 patients without NTIS, indicating a protective role exerted by NTIS on oxidative stress. In our COVID-19 patients, the mitochondrial respiration, measured in PBMCs, was reduced compared to healthy controls. Those with NTIS showed a reduced maximal respiratory capacity and a reduced proton leak, compared to those with normal FT3 serum values. Such lowered mitochondrial respiratory capacity makes the cells more vulnerable to bioenergetic exhaustion. In a pilot study involving two COVID-19 patients with NTIS, we could reinforce our previous observation regarding the role of T3 in the maintenance of adequate peripheral hydroelectrolytic balance. In addition, in these two patients, we demonstrated that by treating their PBMCs with LT3, both in vitro and in vivo, all mitochondrial respiration parameters significantly increased. Conclusions: Our results regarding the reduction in the serum levels of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) of COVID-19 patients with NTIS support the hypothesis that NTIS could represent an adaptative response to severe COVID-19. However, beside this beneficial effect, we demonstrate that, in the presence of an acute reduction of FT3 serum levels, the mitochondrial respiration is greatly impaired, with a consequent establishment of a hypoenergetic state of the immune cells that may hamper their capacity to react to massive viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia De Vitis
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Capalbo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sant’Andrea University Hospital, 00189 Rome, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Torsello
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Surgical and Medical Science and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00181 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Salvati
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Loffredo
- Unit of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Sant’Andrea University Hospital, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Blandino
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Piaggio
- UOSD SAFU, Department of Research, Diagnosis and Innovative Technologies, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Roma, Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Auciello
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Flaminia Pelliccia
- Unit of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Sant’Andrea University Hospital, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Gerardo Salerno
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Simmaco
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Di Magno
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Canettieri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
- Pasteur Institute, Cenci-Bolognetti Foundation, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Flaminia Coluzzi
- Unit of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Sant’Andrea University Hospital, 00189 Rome, Italy
- Department Medical and Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Rita Mancini
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Rocco
- Department of Surgical and Medical Science and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00181 Rome, Italy
- Unit of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Sant’Andrea University Hospital, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Sciacchitano
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Pathogenesis and Pathology of COVID-Associated Mucormycosis: What Is New and Why. CURRENT FUNGAL INFECTION REPORTS 2022; 16:206-220. [PMID: 36193101 PMCID: PMC9520103 DOI: 10.1007/s12281-022-00443-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review There is global increase in the incidence of mucormycosis. However, a sudden increase in the COVID-associated mucormycosis (CAM) was noted, particularly in India, during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The interplay of factors involved in the pathogenesis is complex. In this review, the influence of pre-existing disease, exaggerated risk factors, altered milieu due to COVID-19 itself and the consequences of its treatment on the host pathogen interactions leading to the disease and morphology of the fungus will be highlighted. Recent Findings Hyperglycemia, acidosis, available free iron, lowered host defenses, and the fungal virulence factors promote the growth of Mucorales. There is a high background prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) in India. Uncontrolled or undiagnosed DM, COVID-19 itself, and inappropriate administration of corticosteroids in high doses and for prolonged periods result in hyperglycemia. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and metabolic acidosis due to hypoxia or renal failure contribute to acidic pH and dissociate bound iron from serum proteins. The host defenses are lowered due to COVID-19-induced immune dysregulation, hyperglycemia itself, and administration of corticosteroids and immune suppressants for the treatment of COVID-19. The altered metabolic milieu in the local microenvironment of nose and paranasal sinuses (PNS) promotes specific interaction of glucose-regulated protein-78 (GRP-78) on host cells with spore coat protein homologue (CotH 3) on Mucorales resulting in rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) as the predominant clinical form in CAM. The pathology is extensive soft tissue involvement with angioinvasion and perineural invasion. Melanized hyphae and sporangia were seen on histopathology, which is unique to CAM. While many factors favor the growth of Mucorales in CAM, hyperglycemia, hyperferritinemia, and administration of hyperbaric oxygen result in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inadequate humidification results in dehydration. Melanization is possibly the adaptive and protective mechanism of Mucorales to escape the unfavorable conditions due to the treatment of COVID-19. Summary High background prevalence of DM, inappropriate administration of corticosteroids and immune dysregulation due to COVID-19 favor the growth of Mucorales in CAM. Melanization of Mucorales hyphae and sporangia on histopathology probably represent adaptive and protective mechanism due to the treatment with hyperbaric oxygen with inadequate humidification as well as the metabolic alterations.
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Kovács EH, Dembrovszky F, Ocskay K, Szabó L, Hegyi P, Molnar Z, Tánczos K. Effectiveness and safety of fibrinolytic therapy in critically ill patients with COVID-19 with ARDS: protocol for a prospective meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e063855. [PMID: 36167378 PMCID: PMC9515457 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-063855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The use of fibrinolytic therapy has been proposed in severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). During the COVID-19 pandemic, anticoagulation has received special attention due to the frequent findings of microthrombi and fibrin deposits in the lungs and other organs. Therefore, the use of fibrinolysis has been regarded as a potential rescue therapy in these patients. In this prospective meta-analysis, we plan to synthesise evidence from ongoing clinical trials and thus assess whether fibrinolytic therapy can improve the ventilation/perfusion ratio in patients with severe COVID-19-caused ARDS as compared with standard of care. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This protocol was registered in PROSPERO. All randomised controlled trials and prospective observational trials that compare fibrinolytic therapy with standard of care in adult patients with COVID-19 and define their primary or secondary outcome as improvement in oxygenation and/or gas exchange, or mortality will be considered eligible. Safety outcomes will include bleeding event rate and requirement for transfusion. Our search on 25 January 2022 identified five eligible ongoing clinical trials. A formal search of MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, CENTRAL will be performed every month to identify published results and to search for further trials that meet our eligibility criteria. DISSEMINATION This could be the first qualitative and quantitative synthesis summarising evidence of the efficacy and safety of fibrinolytic therapy in critically ill patients with COVID-19. We plan to publish our results in peer-reviewed journals. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021285281.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emőke Henrietta Kovács
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Selye János Doctoral College for Advanced Studies, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Fanni Dembrovszky
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Klementina Ocskay
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - László Szabó
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Péter Hegyi
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Division of Pancreatic Diseases, Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Molnar
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Krisztián Tánczos
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Soproni Erzsébet Teaching Hospital and Rehabilitation Institute, Sopron, Hungary
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Mancabelli L, Milani C, Fontana F, Lugli GA, Tarracchini C, Viappiani A, Ciociola T, Ticinesi A, Nouvenne A, Meschi T, Turroni F, Ventura M. Untangling the link between the human gut microbiota composition and the severity of the symptoms of the COVID-19 infection. Environ Microbiol 2022; 24:6453-6462. [PMID: 36086955 PMCID: PMC9538590 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Recent pandemic infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) led the scientific community to investigate the possible causes contributing to the physiopathology of this disease. In this context, analyses of the intestinal microbiota highlighted possible correlation between host-associated bacterial communities and development of the COVID-19. Nevertheless, a detailed investigation of the role of the human microbiota in the severity of the symptoms of this disease is still lacking. This study performed a comprehensive meta-analysis of 323 faecal samples from public and novel Italian data sets based on the shotgun metagenomic approach. In detail, the comparative analyses revealed possible differences in the microbial biodiversity related to the individual health status, highlighting a species richness decrease in COVID-19 patients with a severe prognosis. Moreover, healthy subjects resulted characterized by a higher abundance of protective and health-supporting bacterial species, while patients affected by COVID-19 disease displayed a significant increase of opportunistic pathogen bacteria involved in developing putrefactive dysbiosis. Furthermore, prediction of the microbiome functional capabilities suggested that individuals affected by COVID-19 subsist in an unbalanced metabolism characterized by an overrepresentation of enzymes involved in the protein metabolism at the expense of carbohydrates oriented pathways, which can impact on disease severity and in excessive systemic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Mancabelli
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly,Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Christian Milani
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly,Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of ChemistryLife Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Federico Fontana
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of ChemistryLife Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Gabriele Andrea Lugli
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of ChemistryLife Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Chiara Tarracchini
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of ChemistryLife Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of ParmaParmaItaly
| | | | - Tecla Ciociola
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Andrea Ticinesi
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly,Geriatric‐Rehabilitation DepartmentAzienda Ospedaliero‐Universitaria di ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Antonio Nouvenne
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly,Geriatric‐Rehabilitation DepartmentAzienda Ospedaliero‐Universitaria di ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Tiziana Meschi
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly,Geriatric‐Rehabilitation DepartmentAzienda Ospedaliero‐Universitaria di ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Francesca Turroni
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly,Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of ChemistryLife Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Marco Ventura
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly,Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of ChemistryLife Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of ParmaParmaItaly
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Manna PR, Gray ZC, Sikdar M, Reddy H. COVID-19 and its genomic variants: Molecular pathogenesis and therapeutic interventions. EXCLI JOURNAL 2022; 21:1196-1221. [PMID: 36381644 PMCID: PMC9650701 DOI: 10.17179/excli2022-5315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19), caused by a β-coronavirus and its genomic variants, is associated with substantial morbidities and mortalities globally. The COVID-19 virus and its genomic variants enter host cells upon binding to the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 receptors that are expressed in a variety of tissues, but predominantly in the lungs, heart, and blood vessels. Patients afflicted with COVID-19 may be asymptomatic or present with critical symptoms possibly due to diverse lifestyles, immune responses, aging, and underlying medical conditions. Geriatric populations, especially men in comparison to women, with immunocompromised conditions, are most vulnerable to severe COVID-19 associated infections, complications, and mortalities. Notably, whereas immunomodulation, involving nutritional consumption, is essential to protecting an individual from COVID-19, immunosuppression is detrimental to a person with this aggressive disease. As such, immune health is inversely correlated to COVID-19 severity and resulting consequences. Advances in genomic and proteomic technologies have helped us to understand the molecular events underlying symptomatology, transmission and, pathogenesis of COVID-19 and its genomic variants. Accordingly, there has been development of a variety of therapeutic interventions, ranging from mask wearing to vaccination to medication. This review summarizes the current understanding of molecular pathogenesis of COVID-19, effects of comorbidities on COVID-19, and prospective therapeutic strategies for the prevention and treatment of this contagious disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pulak R. Manna
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, School of Medicine, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA,*To whom correspondence should be addressed: Pulak R. Manna, Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, School of Medicine, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Tel: +1-806-743-3573, Fax: +1-806-743-3143, E-mail:
| | - Zackery C. Gray
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, School of Medicine, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Malabika Sikdar
- Department of Zoology, Dr. Hari Singh Gour Vishwavidyalaya, Sagar, MP 470003, India
| | - Hemachandra Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, School of Medicine, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA,Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA,Neurology, Departments of School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA,Public Health Department of the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA,Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, School Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA,Nutritional Sciences Department, College of Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
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50
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Aksak-Wąs BJ, Chober D, Serwin K, Scheibe K, Niścigorska-Olsen J, Niedźwiedź A, Dobrowolska M, Żybul K, Kubacka M, Zimoń A, Hołda E, Mieżyńska-Kurtycz J, Gryczman M, Jamro G, Szakoła P, Parczewski M. Remdesivir Reduces Mortality in Hemato-Oncology Patients with COVID-19. J Inflamm Res 2022; 15:4907-4920. [PMID: 36046662 PMCID: PMC9423106 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s378347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Remdesivir is the first agent with proven clinical efficacy against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); however, its benefit is associated with early use, and its efficacy has been poorly studied in patients with hemato-oncological diseases, who have an increased risk of a severe course of infection. This study aimed to assess the effects of remdesivir on mortality, mechanical ventilation, and the duration of hospitalization in both the general population and in patients with hemato-oncological diseases. Materials and Methods Longitudinal data for 4287 patients with confirmed COVID-19 were analyzed, including a subset of 200 individuals with hemato-oncological diseases. In total, 1285 (30.0%) patients received remdesivir, while the remaining patients were treated with other methods. Survival statistics for the 14- and 30-day observation time points were calculated using non-parametric and multivariate Cox models. Results Mortality for the 14- and 30-day observation time points was notably lower among patients receiving remdesivir (7.2% vs 11.6%, p < 0.001 and 12.7% vs 16.0, p = 0.005, respectively); however, in multivariate models adjusted for age, sex, lung involvement, and lactate dehydrogenase and interleukin-6 levels, the administration of remdesivir did not reduce patient mortality at either the 14-day or 30-day time points. Among patients with haemato-oncological disease, significant survival benefit was observed at 14 and 30 days for patients treated with remdesivir (11.3% vs.16.7% and 24.2% vs 26.1%, respectively; p < 0.001). A favorable effect of remdesivir was also noted for the 14-day time point in multivariate survival analysis (HR:4.03 [95% confidence interval:1.37-11.88]; p = 0.01). Conclusion Remdesivir significantly reduced the early mortality rate in COVID-19 patients with comorbid hemato-oncological disease, which emphasizes the need to administer this agent to immunosuppressed patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bogusz Jan Aksak-Wąs
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Immune Deficiency, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Daniel Chober
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Immune Deficiency, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Karol Serwin
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Immune Deficiency, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Kaja Scheibe
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Immune Deficiency, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Jolanta Niścigorska-Olsen
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Immune Deficiency, Provincial Hospital, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Anna Niedźwiedź
- Department of Diabetology and Internal Diseases, Provincial Hospital, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Monika Dobrowolska
- Department of Diabetology and Internal Diseases, Provincial Hospital, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Żybul
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Provincial Hospital, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Marta Kubacka
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Provincial Hospital, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Zimoń
- Department of Rheumatology, Department of Rehabilitation, Provincial Hospital, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Ewa Hołda
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Provincial Hospital, Szczecin, Poland
| | | | - Marta Gryczman
- Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, Dialysis Station, Provincial Hospital, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Jamro
- Department of Otolaryngology with the Sub-Department of Otolaryngology for Children, Provincial Hospital, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Paweł Szakoła
- Department of General and Transplant Surgery, Department of Vascular Surgery, Provincial Hospital, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Miłosz Parczewski
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Immune Deficiency, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
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