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Rzymski P, Niedziela J, Poniedziałek B, Rosińska J, Zarębska-Michaluk D, Sobala-Szczygieł B, Flisiak R, Gąsior M, Jaroszewicz J. Humoral anti-SARS-CoV-2 response in patients with different long COVID phenotypes. Virology 2024; 596:110118. [PMID: 38805803 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2024.110118] [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: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Long COVID (LC) is characterized by persistent symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection, with various mechanisms offered to explain its pathogenesis. This study explored whether adaptive humoral anti-SARS-CoV-2 responses differ in LC. Unvaccinated COVID-19 convalescents (n = 200) were enrolled, with 21.5% (n = 43) presenting LC three months post-infection. LC diagnosis was based on persistent symptom(s) and alterations in biochemical/clinical markers; three phenotypes were distinguished: cardiological, pulmonary, and psychiatric LC. All three phenotypes were characterized by significantly decreased seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against nucleocapsid (anti-NP). LC was associated with decreased odds of testing positive for anti-NP (OR = 0.35, 95%CI: 0.16-0.78, p = 0.001). Seropositive LC patients had lower anti-S1 and anti-S2 levels than individuals without LC, and those with pulmonary and psychological phenotypes also revealed decreased anti-RBD concentrations. The results indicate that LC can be characterized by diminished humoral response to SARS-CoV-2. The potential implication of this phenomenon in post-acute viral sequelae is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Rzymski
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland.
| | - Jacek Niedziela
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Barbara Poniedziałek
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Joanna Rosińska
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | | | | | - Robert Flisiak
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Białystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Mariusz Gąsior
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Jerzy Jaroszewicz
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Silesia, Bytom, Poland
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2
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Buoninfante A, Andeweg A, Genov G, Cavaleri M. Myocarditis associated with COVID-19 vaccination. NPJ Vaccines 2024; 9:122. [PMID: 38942751 PMCID: PMC11213864 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-024-00893-1] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Following the start of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign, the adverse events of myocarditis and pericarditis were linked mainly to mRNA COVID-19 vaccines by the regulatory authorities worldwide. COVID-19 vaccines have been administered to several million people and the risk of myocarditis post COVID-19 vaccination has been characterised in great detail. At the present time the research data available are scarce and there is still no clear understanding of the biological mechanism/s responsible for this disease. This manuscript provides a concise overview of the epidemiology of myocarditis and the most prominent mechanistic insights in the pathophysiology of the disease. Most importantly it underscores the needed next steps in the research agenda required to characterize the pathophysiology of this disease post-COVID-19 vaccination. Finally, it shares our perspectives and considerations for public health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arno Andeweg
- Public Health Threats, European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Georgy Genov
- Pharmacovigilance Office, European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marco Cavaleri
- Public Health Threats, European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Wang W, Jia H, Hua X, Song J. New insights gained from cellular landscape changes in myocarditis and inflammatory cardiomyopathy. Heart Fail Rev 2024:10.1007/s10741-024-10406-w. [PMID: 38896377 DOI: 10.1007/s10741-024-10406-w] [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] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Advances in the etiological classification of myocarditis and inflammatory cardiomyopathy (ICM) have reached a consensus. However, the mechanism of myocarditis/ICM remains unclear, which affects the development of treatment and the improvement of outcome. Cellular transcription and metabolic reprogramming, and the interactions between cardiomyocytes and non-cardiomyocytes, such as the immune cells, contribute to the process of myocarditis/ICM. Recent efforts have been made by multi-omics techniques, particularly in single-cell RNA sequencing, to gain a better understanding of the cellular landscape alteration occurring in disease during the progression. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest studies in myocarditis/ICM, particularly as revealed by single-cell sequencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiteng Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Preclinical Research and Evaluation for Cardiovascular Implant Materials, Animal Experimental Centre, Fuwai Hospital, National Centre for Cardiovascular Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, 167 Beilishi Road, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100037, China
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 10037, China
| | - Hao Jia
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Preclinical Research and Evaluation for Cardiovascular Implant Materials, Animal Experimental Centre, Fuwai Hospital, National Centre for Cardiovascular Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, 167 Beilishi Road, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100037, China
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 10037, China
| | - Xiumeng Hua
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Preclinical Research and Evaluation for Cardiovascular Implant Materials, Animal Experimental Centre, Fuwai Hospital, National Centre for Cardiovascular Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, 167 Beilishi Road, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100037, China
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 10037, China
| | - Jiangping Song
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Preclinical Research and Evaluation for Cardiovascular Implant Materials, Animal Experimental Centre, Fuwai Hospital, National Centre for Cardiovascular Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, 167 Beilishi Road, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100037, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenzhen, 518057, China.
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 10037, China.
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4
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Zhang L, Hu W, Li J, Li Y, Liu F, Xiao W, Jiang N, Xiao Z, Han L, Zhou W. Targeting NRP1 axis as a strategy for treating energy metabolism impairment induced by SARS-CoV-2 spike. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024:10.1007/s11427-023-2568-4. [PMID: 38902449 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-023-2568-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Lihui Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Wanting Hu
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Jingxuan Li
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Yuehan Li
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Wenyi Xiao
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Ning Jiang
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Zhiyong Xiao
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Lu Han
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China.
| | - Wenxia Zhou
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China.
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China.
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Kim HJ, Kim MH, Choi MG, Chun EM. Psychiatric adverse events following COVID-19 vaccination: a population-based cohort study in Seoul, South Korea. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02627-0. [PMID: 38834668 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02627-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Evidence has suggested an increased risk of psychiatric manifestations following viral infections including coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). However, psychiatric adverse events (AEs) after COVID-19 vaccination, which were documented in case reports and case series, remain unclear. This study is aimed to investigate the psychiatric AEs after COVID-19 vaccination from a large population-based cohort in Seoul, South Korea. We recruited 50% of the Seoul-resident population randomly selected from the Korean National Health Insurance Service (KNHIS) claims database on 1, January, 2021. The included participants (n = 2,027,353) from the Korean National Health Insurance Service claims database were divided into two groups according to COVID-19 vaccination. The cumulative incidences per 10,000 of psychiatric AEs were assessed on one week, two weeks, one month, and three months after COVID-19 vaccination. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% Confidence interval (CIs) of psychiatric AEs were measured for the vaccinated population. The cumulative incidence of depression, anxiety, dissociative, stress-related, and somatoform disorders, sleep disorders, and sexual disorders at three months following COVID-19 vaccination were higher in the vaccination group than no vaccination group. However, schizophrenia and bipolar disorders showed lower cumulative incidence in the vaccination group than in the non-vaccinated group. Depression (HR [95% CI] = 1.683 [1.520-1.863]), anxiety, dissociative, stress-related, and somatoform disorders (HR [95% CI] = 1.439 [1.322-1.568]), and sleep disorders (HR [95% CI] = 1.934 [1.738-2.152]) showed increased risks after COVID-19 vaccination, whereas the risks of schizophrenia (HR [95% CI] = 0.231 [0.164-0.326]) and bipolar disorder (HR [95% CI] = 0.672 [0.470-0.962]). COVID-19 vaccination increased the risks of depression, anxiety, dissociative, stress-related, and somatoform disorders, and sleep disorders while reducing the risk of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Therefore, special cautions are necessary for administering additional COVID-19 vaccinations to populations vulnerable to psychiatric AEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Jin Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, College of Medicine, Inje University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Ho Kim
- Informatization Department, Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeong Geun Choi
- Division of Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Mi Chun
- Division of Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Kim HJ, Kim MH, Park SJ, Choi MG, Chun EM. Autoimmune adverse event following COVID-19 vaccination in Seoul, South Korea. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2024; 153:1711-1720. [PMID: 38520423 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2024.01.025] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing evidence that the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination can affect the regulation of the immune system, leading to the development of autoimmune diseases. However, the autoimmune adverse events (AEs) after COVID-19 vaccination remain largely unclear. OBJECTIVE We sought to investigate the autoimmune AEs after COVID-19 vaccination from a population-based cohort in South Korea. METHODS A total of 4,203,887 participants, representing 50% of the population residing in Seoul, were recruited from the National Health Insurance Service database and then divided into 2 groups on the basis of COVID-19 vaccination. The cumulative incidence, hazard ratios (HRs), and 95% CIs of autoimmune AEs were assessed following COVID-19 vaccination. RESULTS The incidence of vitiligo has been observed to be significantly higher in the vaccination group compared with the no vaccination group. The cumulative incidence of vitiligo began to show a significant difference starting 2 weeks after vaccination, and it reached 2.2% in the vaccination group and 0.6% in the no vaccination group by 3 months after COVID-19 vaccination. Vitiligo (HR, 2.714; 95% CI, 1.777-4.146) was an increased risk among autoimmune AEs. Furthermore, the risk of vitiligo was the highest for heterologous vaccination (HR, 3.890; 95% CI, 2.303-6.573) compared with using cDNA vaccine (HR, 2.861; 95% CI, 1.838-4.453) or mRNA vaccine (HR, 2.475; 95% CI, 1.607-3.813). CONCLUSIONS Vitiligo as an autoimmune AE was noted to be substantially higher in the COVID-19-vaccinated group compared with the controls. Therefore, the occurrence of vitiligo could be considered as one of the significant AEs post-COVID-19 vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Jin Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, College of Medicine, Inje University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min-Ho Kim
- Informatization Department, Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seong Jun Park
- Division of Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Myeong Geun Choi
- Division of Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Mi Chun
- Division of Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea.
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Deng X, Tang K, Wang Z, He S, Luo Z. Impacts of Inflammatory Cytokines Variants on Systemic Inflammatory Profile and COVID-19 Severity. J Epidemiol Glob Health 2024; 14:363-378. [PMID: 38376765 PMCID: PMC11176143 DOI: 10.1007/s44197-024-00204-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cytokine storm is known to impact the prognosis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), since pro-inflammatory cytokine variants are associated with cytokine storm. It is tempting to speculate that pro-inflammatory cytokines variants may impact COVID-19 outcomes by modulating cytokine storm. Here, we verified this hypothesis via a comprehensive analysis. METHODS PubMed, Cochrane Library, Central, CINAHL, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched until December 15, 2023. Case-control or cohort studies that investigated the impacts of rs1800795 or rs1800629 on COVID-19 susceptibility, severity, mortality, IL-6, TNF-α, or CRP levels were included after an anonymous review by two independent reviewers and consultations of disagreement by a third independent reviewer. RESULTS 47 studies (8305 COVID-19 individuals and 17,846 non-COVID-19 individuals) were analyzed. The rs1800629 A allele (adenine at the -308 position of the promoter was encoded by the A allele) was associated with higher levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and C-reactive protein (CRP). In contrast, the rs1800795 C allele (cytosine at the -174 position of the promoter was encoded by the C allele) was linked to higher levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and CRP. In addition, the A allele of rs1800629 increased the severity and mortality of COVID-19. However, the C allele of rs1800795 only increased COVID-19 susceptibility. CONCLUSIONS rs1800629 and rs1800795 variants of pro-inflammatory cytokines have significant impacts on systemic inflammatory profile and COVID-19 clinical outcomes. rs1800629 may serve as a genetic marker for severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- XueJun Deng
- Department of Cardiology, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, 629000, Sichuan, China
| | - Kai Tang
- Department of Cardiology, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, 629000, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhiqiang Wang
- Orthopedic Center 1 Department of Orthopedic Trauma, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, Sichuan, China.
| | - Suyu He
- The Fourth Department of Digestive Disease Center, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, 629000, Sichuan, China.
| | - Zhi Luo
- Department of Cardiology, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, 629000, Sichuan, China.
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Boros LG, Kyriakopoulos AM, Brogna C, Piscopo M, McCullough PA, Seneff S. Long-lasting, biochemically modified mRNA, and its frameshifted recombinant spike proteins in human tissues and circulation after COVID-19 vaccination. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2024; 12:e1218. [PMID: 38867495 PMCID: PMC11169277 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.1218] [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: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
According to the CDC, both Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines contain nucleoside-modified messenger RNA (mRNA) encoding the viral spike glycoprotein of severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by corona virus (SARS-CoV-2), administered via intramuscular injections. Despite their worldwide use, very little is known about how nucleoside modifications in mRNA sequences affect their breakdown, transcription and protein synthesis. It was hoped that resident and circulating immune cells attracted to the injection site make copies of the spike protein while the injected mRNA degrades within a few days. It was also originally estimated that recombinant spike proteins generated by mRNA vaccines would persist in the body for a few weeks. In reality, clinical studies now report that modified SARS-CoV-2 mRNA routinely persist up to a month from injection and can be detected in cardiac and skeletal muscle at sites of inflammation and fibrosis, while the recombinant spike protein may persist a little over half a year in blood. Vaccination with 1-methylΨ (pseudouridine enriched) mRNA can elicit cellular immunity to peptide antigens produced by +1 ribosomal frameshifting in major histocompatibility complex-diverse people. The translation of 1-methylΨ mRNA using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry identified nine peptides derived from the mRNA +1 frame. These products impact on off-target host T cell immunity that include increased production of new B cell antigens with far reaching clinical consequences. As an example, a highly significant increase in heart muscle 18-flourodeoxyglucose uptake was detected in vaccinated patients up to half a year (180 days). This review article focuses on medical biochemistry, proteomics and deutenomics principles that explain the persisting spike phenomenon in circulation with organ-related functional damage even in asymptomatic individuals. Proline and hydroxyproline residues emerge as prominent deuterium (heavy hydrogen) binding sites in structural proteins with robust isotopic stability that resists not only enzymatic breakdown, but virtually all (non)-enzymatic cleavage mechanisms known in chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- László G. Boros
- Sub‐Molecular Medical Sciences Deutenomics CoreVrije University AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | - Carlo Brogna
- Department of ResearchCraniomed Group Facility SrlItaly
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of BiologyUniversity of Naples Federico IINaplesItaly
| | | | - Stephanie Seneff
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence LaboratoryMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
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Hulscher N, Hodkinson R, Makis W, McCullough PA. Response to: Van Wyk et al. letter to the editor regarding 'Autopsy findings in cases of fatal COVID-19 vaccine-induced myocarditis'. ESC Heart Fail 2024. [PMID: 38772619 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.14861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Hulscher
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- McCullough Foundation, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | | | - William Makis
- Alberta Health Services, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Peter A McCullough
- McCullough Foundation, Dallas, Texas, USA
- The Wellness Company, Boca Raton, Florida, USA
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10
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Xiong Y, Li Y, Qian W, Zhang Q. RNA m5C methylation modification: a potential therapeutic target for SARS-CoV-2-associated myocarditis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1380697. [PMID: 38715608 PMCID: PMC11074473 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1380697] [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: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19), caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), has quickly spread worldwide and resulted in significant morbidity and mortality. Although most infections are mild, some patients can also develop severe and fatal myocarditis. In eukaryotic RNAs, 5-methylcytosine (m5C) is a common kind of post-transcriptional modification, which is involved in regulating various biological processes (such as RNA export, translation, and stability maintenance). With the rapid development of m5C modification detection technology, studies related to viral m5C modification are ever-increasing. These studies have revealed that m5C modification plays an important role in various stages of viral replication, including transcription and translation. According to recent studies, m5C methylation modification can regulate SARS-CoV-2 infection by modulating innate immune signaling pathways. However, the specific role of m5C modification in SARS-CoV-2-induced myocarditis remains unclear. Therefore, this review aims to provide insights into the molecular mechanisms of m5C methylation in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Moreover, the regulatory role of NSUN2 in viral infection and host innate immune response was also highlighted. This review may provide new directions for developing therapeutic strategies for SARS-CoV-2-associated myocarditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xiong
- Department of Cardiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Cardiology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yanan Li
- Emergency Department, Shangjinnanfu Hospital, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Weiwei Qian
- Emergency Department, Shangjinnanfu Hospital, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, West China Hospital, and Disaster Medical Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Scheim DE, Parry PI, Rabbolini DJ, Aldous C, Yagisawa M, Clancy R, Borody TJ, Hoy WE. Back to the Basics of SARS-CoV-2 Biochemistry: Microvascular Occlusive Glycan Bindings Govern Its Morbidities and Inform Therapeutic Responses. Viruses 2024; 16:647. [PMID: 38675987 PMCID: PMC11054389 DOI: 10.3390/v16040647] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Consistent with the biochemistry of coronaviruses as well established over decades, SARS-CoV-2 makes its initial attachment to host cells through the binding of its spike protein (SP) to sialylated glycans (containing the monosaccharide sialic acid) on the cell surface. The virus can then slide over and enter via ACE2. SARS-CoV-2 SP attaches particularly tightly to the trillions of red blood cells (RBCs), platelets and endothelial cells in the human body, each cell very densely coated with sialic acid surface molecules but having no ACE2 or minimal ACE2. These interlaced attachments trigger the blood cell aggregation, microvascular occlusion and vascular damage that underlie the hypoxia, blood clotting and related morbidities of severe COVID-19. Notably, the two human betacoronaviruses that express a sialic acid-cleaving enzyme are benign, while the other three-SARS, SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-are virulent. RBC aggregation experimentally induced in several animal species using an injected polysaccharide caused most of the same morbidities of severe COVID-19. This glycan biochemistry is key to disentangling controversies that have arisen over the efficacy of certain generic COVID-19 treatment agents and the safety of SP-based COVID-19 vaccines. More broadly, disregard for the active physiological role of RBCs yields unreliable or erroneous reporting of pharmacokinetic parameters as routinely obtained for most drugs and other bioactive agents using detection in plasma, with whole-blood levels being up to 30-fold higher. Appreciation of the active role of RBCs can elucidate the microvascular underpinnings of other health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, and therapeutic opportunities to address them.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E. Scheim
- US Public Health Service, Commissioned Corps, Inactive Reserve, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA
| | - Peter I. Parry
- Children’s Health Research Clinical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia;
- Department of Psychiatry, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - David J. Rabbolini
- Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, St Leonards, NSW 2064, Australia
| | - Colleen Aldous
- College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa;
| | - Morimasa Yagisawa
- Satoshi Omura Memorial Research Institute, Kitasato University, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
- Louis Pasteur Center for Medical Research, Kyoto 606-8225, Japan
| | - Robert Clancy
- Emeritus Professor, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NE1 7RU, Australia
| | | | - Wendy E. Hoy
- Emeritus Professor of Medicine, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia
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Grote K, Schaefer AC, Soufi M, Ruppert V, Linne U, Mukund Bhagwat A, Szymanski W, Graumann J, Gercke Y, Aldudak S, Hilfiker-Kleiner D, Schieffer E, Schieffer B. Targeting the High-Density Lipoprotein Proteome for the Treatment of Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4522. [PMID: 38674105 PMCID: PMC11049911 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084522] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Here, we target the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) proteome in a case series of 16 patients with post-COVID-19 symptoms treated with HMG-Co-A reductase inhibitors (statin) plus angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockers (ARBs) for 6 weeks. Patients suffering from persistent symptoms (post-acute sequelae) after serologically confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection (post-COVID-19 syndrome, PCS, n = 8) or following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination (PVS, n = 8) were included. Asymptomatic subjects with corresponding serological findings served as healthy controls (n = 8/8). HDL was isolated using dextran sulfate precipitation and the HDL proteome of all study participants was analyzed quantitatively by mass spectrometry. Clinical symptoms were assessed using questionnaires before and after therapy. The inflammatory potential of the patients' HDL proteome was addressed in human endothelial cells. The HDL proteome of patients with PCS and PVS showed no significant differences; however, compared to controls, the HDL from PVS/PCS patients displayed significant alterations involving hemoglobin, cytoskeletal proteins (MYL6, TLN1, PARVB, TPM4, FLNA), and amyloid precursor protein. Gene Ontology Biological Process (GOBP) enrichment analysis identified hemostasis, peptidase, and lipoprotein regulation pathways to be involved. Treatment of PVS/PCS patients with statins plus ARBs improved the patients' clinical symptoms. After therapy, three proteins were significantly increased (FAM3C, AT6AP2, ADAM10; FDR < 0.05) in the HDL proteome from patients with PVS/PCS. Exposure of human endothelial cells with the HDL proteome from treated PVS/PCS patients revealed reduced inflammatory cytokine and adhesion molecule expression. Thus, HDL proteome analysis from PVS/PCS patients enables a deeper insight into the underlying disease mechanisms, pointing to significant involvement in metabolic and signaling disturbances. Treatment with statins plus ARBs improved clinical symptoms and reduced the inflammatory potential of the HDL proteome. These observations may guide future therapeutic strategies for PVS/PCS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karsten Grote
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (K.G.); (A.-C.S.); (M.S.); (V.R.); (S.A.); (E.S.)
| | - Ann-Christin Schaefer
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (K.G.); (A.-C.S.); (M.S.); (V.R.); (S.A.); (E.S.)
| | - Muhidien Soufi
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (K.G.); (A.-C.S.); (M.S.); (V.R.); (S.A.); (E.S.)
| | - Volker Ruppert
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (K.G.); (A.-C.S.); (M.S.); (V.R.); (S.A.); (E.S.)
| | - Uwe Linne
- Mass Spectrometry Facility, Department of Chemistry, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany;
| | - Aditya Mukund Bhagwat
- Institute of Translational Proteomics & Core Facility Translational Proteomics, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany (W.S.)
| | - Witold Szymanski
- Institute of Translational Proteomics & Core Facility Translational Proteomics, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany (W.S.)
| | - Johannes Graumann
- Institute of Translational Proteomics & Core Facility Translational Proteomics, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany (W.S.)
| | - Yana Gercke
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (K.G.); (A.-C.S.); (M.S.); (V.R.); (S.A.); (E.S.)
| | - Sümeya Aldudak
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (K.G.); (A.-C.S.); (M.S.); (V.R.); (S.A.); (E.S.)
| | - Denise Hilfiker-Kleiner
- Institute Cardiovascular Complications in Pregnancy and Oncologic Therapies, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany;
| | - Elisabeth Schieffer
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (K.G.); (A.-C.S.); (M.S.); (V.R.); (S.A.); (E.S.)
| | - Bernhard Schieffer
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology, and Intensive Care, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany; (K.G.); (A.-C.S.); (M.S.); (V.R.); (S.A.); (E.S.)
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13
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Cooper LT, Hasin T, Ryan M. Third time's a harm? Cardiac risk of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA booster vaccines in younger men. Eur Heart J 2024; 45:1336-1338. [PMID: 38531026 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehae157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Leslie T Cooper
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic in Florida, 4500 San Pablo, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
| | - Tal Hasin
- Hebrew University and Medical Director of Heart failure Unit, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Margaret Ryan
- DHA Immunization Healthcare, Naval Medical Center San Diego, Building 6, 34800 Bob Wilson Drive, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
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Ammirati E, Conti N, Palazzini M, Rocchetti M, Spangaro A, Garascia A, Lupi L, Cereda A. Fulminant Myocarditis Temporally Associated with COVID-19 Vaccination. Curr Cardiol Rep 2024; 26:97-112. [PMID: 38324216 DOI: 10.1007/s11886-024-02021-w] [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] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) vaccines have been related to rare cases of acute myocarditis, occurring between 1 in 10,000 and 1 in 100,000 individuals, approximately. Incidence of COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis varies with age, sex, and type of vaccine. Although most patients with acute myocarditis temporally associated with COVID-19 vaccines have an uneventful course, a small subpopulation presents with cardiogenic shock (termed fulminant myocarditis [FM]). This review explored the prevalence, clinical presentation, management, and prognosis of COVID-19 vaccine-associated acute myocarditis, specifically focusing on FM and comparing patients with fulminant versus non-fulminant myocarditis. RECENT FINDINGS Cases of FM represent about 2-4% (0 to 7.5%) of COVID-19 vaccine-associated acute myocarditis cases, and mortality is around 1%, ranging between 0 and 4.4%. First, we identified 40 cases of FM up to February 2023 with sufficient granular data from case reports and case series of COVID-19 vaccine-associated acute myocarditis that occurred within 30 days from the last vaccine injection. This population was compared with 294 cases of non-fulminant acute myocarditis identified in the literature during a similar time. Patients with FM were older (48 vs. 27 years), had a larger proportion of women (58% vs. 9%), and mainly occurred after the first shot compared with non-fulminant cases (58% vs. 16%). The reported mortality was 27% (11 out of 40), in line with non-vaccine-associated fulminant myocarditis. These data were in agreement with 36 cases of FM from a large Korean registry. Herein, we reviewed the clinical features, imaging results, and histological findings of COVID-19 vaccine-associated fulminant myocarditis. In conclusion, COVID-19 vaccine-associated FM differs from non-fulminant forms, suggesting potential specific mechanisms in these rare and severe forms. Mortality in vaccine-associated FM remains high, in line with other forms of FM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Ammirati
- De Gasperis Cardio Center, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Transplant Center, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy.
| | - Nicolina Conti
- De Gasperis Cardio Center, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Transplant Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Palazzini
- De Gasperis Cardio Center, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Transplant Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Rocchetti
- Cardiovascular Department, Association Socio Sanitary Territorial Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Spangaro
- Cardiovascular Department, Association Socio Sanitary Territorial Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Garascia
- De Gasperis Cardio Center, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Transplant Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Lupi
- Institute of Cardiology, Spedali Civili di Brescia and Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST), University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alberto Cereda
- Cardiovascular Department, Association Socio Sanitary Territorial Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
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La Vecchia G, Del Buono MG, Bonaventura A, Vecchiè A, Moroni F, Cartella I, Saponara G, Campbell MJ, Dagna L, Ammirati E, Sanna T, Abbate A. Cardiac Involvement in Patients With Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Adults. J Am Heart Assoc 2024; 13:e032143. [PMID: 38348793 PMCID: PMC11010102 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.032143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in adults is a hyperinflammatory condition following (within 4-12 weeks) SARS-CoV-2 infection. Here, the dysregulation of the immune system leads to a multiorgan involvement often affecting the heart. Cardiac involvement in multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in adults has been described mainly in young men without other comorbidities and may present with different clinical scenarios, including acute heart failure, life-threatening arrhythmias, pericarditis, and myocarditis, with a nonnegligible risk of mortality (up to 7% of all cases). The heterogeneity of its clinical features and the absence of a clear case definition make the differential diagnosis with other postinfectious (eg, infective myocarditis) and hyperinflammatory diseases (eg, adult Still disease and macrophage activation syndrome) challenging. Moreover, the evidence on the efficacy of specific treatments targeting the hyperinflammatory response underlying this clinical condition (eg, glucocorticoids, immunoglobulins, and other immunomodulatory agents) is sparse and not supported by randomized clinical trials. In this review article, we aim to provide an overview of the clinical features and the diagnostic workup of multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in adults with cardiac involvement, highlighting the possible pathogenetic mechanisms and the therapeutic management, along with remaining knowledge gaps in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia La Vecchia
- Department of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary SciencesCatholic University of the Sacred HeartRomeItaly
- Center of Excellence in Cardiovascular SciencesIsola Tiberina Hospital Gemelli IsolaRomeItaly
- Department of Cardiovascular MedicineFondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCSRomeItaly
| | - Marco Giuseppe Del Buono
- Department of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary SciencesCatholic University of the Sacred HeartRomeItaly
- Department of Cardiovascular MedicineFondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCSRomeItaly
| | - Aldo Bonaventura
- S.C. Medicina Generale 1Medical Center, Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi, Department of Internal Medicine, ASST Sette LaghiVareseItaly
| | - Alessandra Vecchiè
- S.C. Medicina Generale 1Medical Center, Ospedale di Circolo e Fondazione Macchi, Department of Internal Medicine, ASST Sette LaghiVareseItaly
| | - Francesco Moroni
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center and Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Heart and Vascular CenterUniversity of VirginiaCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Iside Cartella
- Department of Cardiology, De Gasperis Cardio Center, ASST GrandeOspedale Metropolitano NiguardaMilanItaly
| | - Gianluigi Saponara
- Department of Cardiovascular MedicineFondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCSRomeItaly
| | - Michael J. Campbell
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of PediatricsDuke University Medical Center2301 Erwin Road, DUMC Box 3127DurhamNCUSA
| | - Lorenzo Dagna
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare DiseasesIRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita‐Salute San Raffaele UniversityMilanItaly
| | - Enrico Ammirati
- Department of Cardiology, De Gasperis Cardio Center, ASST GrandeOspedale Metropolitano NiguardaMilanItaly
| | - Tommaso Sanna
- Department of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary SciencesCatholic University of the Sacred HeartRomeItaly
- Department of Cardiovascular MedicineFondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCSRomeItaly
| | - Antonio Abbate
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center and Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Heart and Vascular CenterUniversity of VirginiaCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
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Heil M. Self-DNA driven inflammation in COVID-19 and after mRNA-based vaccination: lessons for non-COVID-19 pathologies. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1259879. [PMID: 38439942 PMCID: PMC10910434 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1259879] [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: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic triggered an unprecedented concentration of economic and research efforts to generate knowledge at unequalled speed on deregulated interferon type I signalling and nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer in B-cells (NF-κB)-driven interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-18 secretion causing cytokine storms. The translation of the knowledge on how the resulting systemic inflammation can lead to life-threatening complications into novel treatments and vaccine technologies is underway. Nevertheless, previously existing knowledge on the role of cytoplasmatic or circulating self-DNA as a pro-inflammatory damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) was largely ignored. Pathologies reported 'de novo' for patients infected with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 to be outcomes of self-DNA-driven inflammation in fact had been linked earlier to self-DNA in different contexts, e.g., the infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-1, sterile inflammation, and autoimmune diseases. I highlight particularly how synergies with other DAMPs can render immunogenic properties to normally non-immunogenic extracellular self-DNA, and I discuss the shared features of the gp41 unit of the HIV-1 envelope protein and the SARS-CoV 2 Spike protein that enable HIV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 to interact with cell or nuclear membranes, trigger syncytia formation, inflict damage to their host's DNA, and trigger inflammation - likely for their own benefit. These similarities motivate speculations that similar mechanisms to those driven by gp41 can explain how inflammatory self-DNA contributes to some of most frequent adverse events after vaccination with the BNT162b2 mRNA (Pfizer/BioNTech) or the mRNA-1273 (Moderna) vaccine, i.e., myocarditis, herpes zoster, rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune nephritis or hepatitis, new-onset systemic lupus erythematosus, and flare-ups of psoriasis or lupus. The hope is to motivate a wider application of the lessons learned from the experiences with COVID-19 and the new mRNA vaccines to combat future non-COVID-19 diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Heil
- Departamento de Ingeniería Genética, Laboratorio de Ecología de Plantas, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (CINVESTAV)-Unidad Irapuato, Irapuato, Mexico
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17
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Ayyubova G, Gychka SG, Nikolaienko SI, Alghenaim FA, Teramoto T, Shults NV, Suzuki YJ. The Role of Furin in the Pathogenesis of COVID-19-Associated Neurological Disorders. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:279. [PMID: 38398788 PMCID: PMC10890058 DOI: 10.3390/life14020279] [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: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders have been reported in a large number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients, suggesting that this disease may have long-term adverse neurological consequences. COVID-19 occurs from infection by a positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The membrane fusion protein of SARS-CoV-2, the spike protein, binds to its human host receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), to initiate membrane fusion between the virus and host cell. The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 contains the furin protease recognition site and its cleavage enhances the infectivity of this virus. The binding of SARS-CoV-2 to the ACE2 receptor has been shown to downregulate ACE2, thereby increasing the levels of pathogenic angiotensin II (Ang II). The furin protease cleaves between the S1 subunit of the spike protein with the binding domain toward ACE2 and the S2 subunit with the transmembrane domain that anchors to the viral membrane, and this activity releases the S1 subunit into the blood circulation. The released S1 subunit of the spike protein also binds to and downregulates ACE2, in turn increasing the level of Ang II. Considering that a viral particle contains many spike protein molecules, furin-dependent cleavage would release many free S1 protein molecules, each of which can downregulate ACE2, while infection with a viral particle only affects one ACE2 molecule. Therefore, the furin-dependent release of S1 protein would dramatically amplify the ability to downregulate ACE2 and produce Ang II. We hypothesize that this amplification mechanism that the virus possesses, but not the infection per se, is the major driving force behind COVID-19-associated neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunel Ayyubova
- Department of Cytology, Embryology and Histology, Azerbaijan Medical University, Baku AZ1022, Azerbaijan
| | - Sergiy G Gychka
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Bogomolets National Medical University, 01601 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Sofia I Nikolaienko
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Bogomolets National Medical University, 01601 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Fada A Alghenaim
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Tadahisa Teramoto
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Nataliia V Shults
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Yuichiro J Suzuki
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
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18
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Lee S, Lee J, Cho SH, Roh G, Park HJ, Lee YJ, Jeon HE, Lee YS, Bae SH, Youn SB, Cho Y, Oh A, Ha D, Lee SY, Choi EJ, Cho S, Lee S, Kim DH, Kang MH, Yoon MS, Lim BK, Nam JH. Assessing the impact of mRNA vaccination in chronic inflammatory murine model. NPJ Vaccines 2024; 9:34. [PMID: 38360752 PMCID: PMC10869740 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-024-00825-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The implications of administration of mRNA vaccines to individuals with chronic inflammatory diseases, including myocarditis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), are unclear. We investigated mRNA vaccine effects in a chronic inflammation mouse model implanted with an LPS pump, focusing on toxicity and immunogenicity. Under chronic inflammation, mRNA vaccines exacerbated cardiac damage and myocarditis, inducing mild heart inflammation with heightened pro-inflammatory cytokine production and inflammatory cell infiltration in the heart. Concurrently, significant muscle damage occurred, with disturbances in mitochondrial fusion and fission factors signaling impaired muscle repair. However, chronic inflammation did not adversely affect muscles at the vaccination site or humoral immune responses; nevertheless, it partially reduced the cell-mediated immune response, particularly T-cell activation. These findings underscore the importance of addressing mRNA vaccine toxicity and immunogenicity in the context of chronic inflammation, ensuring their safe and effective utilization, particularly among vulnerable populations with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seonghyun Lee
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK21 four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jisun Lee
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Hee Cho
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Gahyun Roh
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK21 four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Jung Park
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK21 four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - You-Jeung Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Jungwon University, Goesan-gun, Chungbuk, 28024, Republic of Korea
| | - Ha-Eun Jeon
- Department of Biomedical Science, Jungwon University, Goesan-gun, Chungbuk, 28024, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu-Sun Lee
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK21 four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo-Hyeon Bae
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK21 four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sue Bean Youn
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK21 four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngran Cho
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK21 four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ayoung Oh
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK21 four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Dahyeon Ha
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK21 four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo-Yeon Lee
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK21 four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Jin Choi
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- BK21 four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongje Cho
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sowon Lee
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Do-Hyung Kim
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- SML Biopharm, Gwangmyeong, 14353, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Ho Kang
- BK21 four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical-Chemical Engineering, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Mee-Sup Yoon
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea.
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Incheon, 21999, Republic of Korea.
| | - Byung-Kwan Lim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Jungwon University, Goesan-gun, Chungbuk, 28024, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae-Hwan Nam
- Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea.
- BK21 four Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Bucheon, Republic of Korea.
- SML Biopharm, Gwangmyeong, 14353, Republic of Korea.
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Kumwichar P, Chongsuvivatwong V, Vasoppakarn S, Atthakul N, Nakhonsri V, Ngamphiw C, Khunkham P, Janpoung W, Tongsima S. Incidence rates of myocarditis and pericarditis within 30 days following homologous and heterologous BNT162b2 vaccinations in individuals 5-40 years of age. Vaccine 2024; 42:844-852. [PMID: 38246843 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.01.026] [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: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Due to the data scarcity in low- and middle-income countries, we aimed to examine the incidence rate of myocarditis and pericarditis within 30 days after each dose of homologous (3 × BNT162b2) and heterologous prime-boost (2 × BBIBP-CorV/BNT162b2) vaccine regimen among individuals younger than 40 years. METHODS We conducted a historical control cohort using routinely recorded data from Thai national vaccine and insurance claims databases. Sex-specific incidence rate ratios (IRRs) for myocarditis and pericarditis were calculated for each vaccination strategy and contrasted with incidence rates among the non-immunised population in the pre-COVID-19 period. From August 2021 to September 2022, we tracked the incidence of myocarditis and pericarditis within 30 days after vaccinations using < 40-year-old national population databases. Our reference was the average monthly incidence of these conditions in the non-immunised population from August to October 2019. The exposure of interest was immunisation against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, incorporating the following vaccination strategies: three-dose 3 × BNT162b2 regimen, three-dose 2 × BBIBP-CorV/BNT162b2 regimen, and non-immunisation. RESULTS For myocarditis, a total of 215 cases were identified among 7,594,965 individuals in the 3 × BNT162b2 cohort, 5 cases among 2,914,643 individuals in the 2 × BBIBP-CorV/BNT162b2 cohort, and 115 cases among 32,424,780 non-immunised individuals. The sex-specific IRRs (95 % confidence intervals) of myocarditis and pericarditis after the homologous vaccination were 3.09 (1.61, 5.93) and 1.84 (0.72, 4.73) for females and 7.43 (3.11, 17.73) and 10.48 (3.90, 28.15) for males, respectively. Conversely, the IRRs of myocarditis after the heterologous vaccination were not significant (females: 2.24 (0.70, 7.17); males: 1.99 (0.48, 8.21)). IRRs could not be obtained for pericarditis after the heterologous vaccination because of the small number of observed events. CONCLUSIONS The study observed a significantly increased risk of myocarditis and pericarditis following homologous 3 × BNT162b2 vaccination but had insufficient power to confirm an increased risk for myocarditis following the heterologous prime-boost 2 × BBIBP-CorV/BNT162b2 vaccination. The incidence of pericarditis following the heterologous vaccination was too rare to evaluate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ponlagrit Kumwichar
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, Thailand.
| | - Virasakdi Chongsuvivatwong
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Sanya Vasoppakarn
- Bureau of Service Quality Development, National Health Security Office, Lak Si, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Narumol Atthakul
- Bureau of Service Quality Development, National Health Security Office, Lak Si, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Vorthunju Nakhonsri
- National Biobank of Thailand, National Science and Technology Development Agency, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Chumpol Ngamphiw
- National Biobank of Thailand, National Science and Technology Development Agency, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Peerapat Khunkham
- National Biobank of Thailand, National Science and Technology Development Agency, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Watcharapot Janpoung
- National Biobank of Thailand, National Science and Technology Development Agency, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Sissades Tongsima
- National Biobank of Thailand, National Science and Technology Development Agency, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
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20
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Martínez-Ortega JI, Ramirez Cibrian AG, Martinez-Jaramillo E, García Silva MDC. Sporadic Kaposi Sarcoma Following a COVID-19 Vaccine: Mere Coincidence or Something More? Cureus 2024; 16:e53925. [PMID: 38465101 PMCID: PMC10924926 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53925] [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: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In this case report, we present a distinctive occurrence of classic Kaposi sarcoma (KS) in an individual of Latin origin, emerging seven days following the administration of the third dose of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (AstraZeneca) vaccine. The progression of KS continued over two months, culminating in the development of a tumor. Given the absence of prior reports on KS development post-COVID-19 vaccination, the primary aim of this report is to explore the potential relationship between the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine, reactivation of Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpes virus, and the subsequent onset of KS.
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21
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Kellum CL, Kirkland LG, Nelson TK, Jewett SM, Rytkin E, Efimov IR, Hoover DB, Benson PV, Wagener BM. Sympathetic remodeling and altered angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 localization occur in patients with cardiac disease but are not exacerbated by severe COVID-19. Auton Neurosci 2024; 251:103134. [PMID: 38101169 PMCID: PMC10872860 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2023.103134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Remodeling of sympathetic nerves and ACE2 has been implicated in cardiac pathology, and ACE2 also serves as a receptor for SARS-CoV-2. However, there is limited histological knowledge about the transmural distribution of sympathetic nerves and the cellular localization and distribution of ACE2 in human left ventricles from normal or diseased hearts. Goals of this study were to establish the normal pattern for these parameters and determine changes that occurred in decedents with cardiovascular disease alone compared to those with cardiac pathology and severe COVID-19. METHODS We performed immunohistochemical analysis on sections of left ventricular wall from twenty autopsied human hearts consisting of a control group, a cardiovascular disease group, and COVID-19 ARDS, and COVID-19 non-ARDS groups. RESULTS Using tyrosine hydroxylase as a noradrenergic marker, we found substantial sympathetic nerve loss in cardiovascular disease samples compared to controls. Additionally, we found heterogeneous nerve loss in both COVID-19 groups. Using an ACE2 antibody, we observed robust transmural staining localized to pericytes in the control group. The cardiovascular disease hearts displayed regional loss of ACE2 in pericytes and regional increases in staining of cardiomyocytes for ACE2. Similar changes were observed in both COVID-19 groups. CONCLUSIONS Heterogeneity of sympathetic innervation, which occurs in cardiac disease and is not increased by severe COVID-19, could contribute to arrhythmogenesis. The dominant localization of ACE2 to pericytes suggests that these cells would be the primary target for potential cardiac infection by SARS-CoV-2. Regional changes in ACE2 staining by myocytes and pericytes could have complex effects on cardiac pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Creighton L Kellum
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA
| | - Logan G Kirkland
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA
| | - Tasha K Nelson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA
| | - Seth M Jewett
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA
| | - Eric Rytkin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Igor R Efimov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Donald B Hoover
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA; Center of Excellence in Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA
| | - Paul V Benson
- Department of Pathology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Brant M Wagener
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
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22
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Rose J, Hulscher N, McCullough PA. Determinants of COVID-19 vaccine-induced myocarditis. Ther Adv Drug Saf 2024; 15:20420986241226566. [PMID: 38293564 PMCID: PMC10823859 DOI: 10.1177/20420986241226566] [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: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Following the roll-out of the Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2, Moderna mRNA-1273, and Janssen Ad26.COV2.S coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) injections in the United States, millions of individuals have reported adverse events (AEs) using the vaccine adverse events reports system (VAERS). The objective of this analysis is to describe the myocarditis data in VAERS and the COVID-19 vaccines as potential determinants of myocarditis. Methods We used VAERS data to examine the frequency of reporting myocarditis since the beginning of the mass vaccination campaign and compared this with historical values in VAERS and COVID-19 vaccine administration data from the Our World in Data database. We examined myocarditis reports in VAERS in the context of sex, age, and dose. Statistical analysis was done using the Student's t-test to determine statistically significant differences between ages among myocarditis adverse events (AEs) and the chi-square test to determine relationships between categorical variables with statistical significance. Results We found the number of myocarditis reports in VAERS after COVID-19 vaccination in 2021 was 223 times higher than the average of all vaccines combined for the past 30 years. This represented a 2500% increase in the absolute number of reports in the first year of the campaign when comparing historical values prior to 2021. Demographic data revealed that myocarditis occurred most in youths (50%) and males (69%). A total of 76% of cases resulted in emergency care and hospitalization. Of the total myocarditis reports, 92 individuals died (3%). Myocarditis was more likely after dose 2 (p < 0.00001) and individuals less than 30 years of age were more likely than individuals older than 30 to acquire myocarditis (p < 0.00001). Conclusion COVID-19 vaccination is strongly associated with a serious adverse safety signal of myocarditis, particularly in children and young adults resulting in hospitalization and death. Further investigation into the underlying mechanisms of COVID-19 vaccine-induced myocarditis is imperative to create effective mitigation strategies and ensure the safety of COVID-19 vaccination programs across populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicolas Hulscher
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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23
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Shenton P, Schrader S, Smith J, Alafaci A, Cox N, Taylor A, Hare J, Jones B, Crawford NW, Buttery JP, Cheng DR. Long term follow up and outcomes of Covid-19 vaccine associated myocarditis in Victoria, Australia: A clinical surveillance study. Vaccine 2024; 42:522-528. [PMID: 38154991 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.12.070] [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: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myocarditis and myopericarditis are well described adverse events of special interest (AESI) following COVID-19 vaccinations. Although reports are reassuring regarding initial clinical outcomes, information about longer term outcomes remains limited. We aimed to further this knowledge and report outcomes to 6 months post diagnosis from a single population cohort. METHODS Reports of myocarditis following COVID-19 vaccination were followed up by SAEFVIC (Surveillance of Adverse Events Following Vaccination in the Community), the state-wide vaccine safety service for Victoria, Australia. Confirmed myocarditis cases (Brighton Collaboration Criteria levels 1-3) were followed up via surveys at 1, 3 and 6 months post symptom onset. Responses received between 22 February 2021 and 30 September 2022 were analysed. RESULTS 87.5 % (N = 182) of eligible participants completed at least 1 survey report. 377 reports were analysed. 76.9 % of completed reports were from male patients. The median age of patients was 21 years [IQR: 16 to 32]. 54.8 % (n = 74) of survey reports at 6 months, reported ongoing symptoms. At all follow-up time points, females were significantly more likely to have ongoing symptoms. At 6 months, 51.9 % of male respondents reported symptom resolution compared to 22.6 % of female patients (p = 0.002). Females were also more likely to continue medication and have ongoing exercise restrictions. However, males were significantly more likely to have higher initial peak troponin results and abnormal initial cardiac imaging investigations. CONCLUSIONS There appears to be a significant proportion of patients who experience ongoing symptoms to 6 months post onset amongst patients that experience these AESI. Male patients were more likely to report earlier and more complete symptom recovery, despite significantly higher average initial peak troponin. This difference in phenotypic presentation in females compared to males warrants further investigation and there is a need for longer term follow up data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Shenton
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; SAEFVIC, Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Australia
| | - Silja Schrader
- SAEFVIC, Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Australia
| | - Julia Smith
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; SAEFVIC, Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Australia
| | - Annette Alafaci
- SAEFVIC, Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Australia
| | - Nicholas Cox
- Department of Medicine, Western Health, The University of Melbourne, Australia; Cardiology Unit, Western Health, Australia
| | | | - James Hare
- Department of Cardiology, Alfred Health, Australia
| | - Bryn Jones
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nigel W Crawford
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; SAEFVIC, Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jim P Buttery
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; SAEFVIC, Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Health Analytics, Melbourne Children's Campus, Australia; Health Informatics, Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Australia
| | - Daryl R Cheng
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; SAEFVIC, Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Health Analytics, Melbourne Children's Campus, Australia.
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24
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Villacampa A, Alfaro E, Morales C, Díaz-García E, López-Fernández C, Bartha JL, López-Sánchez F, Lorenzo Ó, Moncada S, Sánchez-Ferrer CF, García-Río F, Cubillos-Zapata C, Peiró C. SARS-CoV-2 S protein activates NLRP3 inflammasome and deregulates coagulation factors in endothelial and immune cells. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:38. [PMID: 38225643 PMCID: PMC10788971 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01397-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyperinflammation, hypercoagulation and endothelial injury are major findings in acute and post-COVID-19. The SARS-CoV-2 S protein has been detected as an isolated element in human tissues reservoirs and is the main product of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. We investigated whether the S protein alone triggers pro-inflammatory and pro-coagulant responses in primary cultures of two cell types deeply affected by SARS-CoV-2, such are monocytes and endothelial cells. METHODS In human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and monocytes, the components of NF-κB and the NLRP3 inflammasome system, as well as coagulation regulators, were assessed by qRT-PCR, Western blot, flow cytometry, or indirect immunofluorescence. RESULTS S protein activated NF-κB, promoted pro-inflammatory cytokines release, and triggered the priming and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome system resulting in mature IL-1β formation in both cell types. This was paralleled by enhanced production of coagulation factors such as von Willebrand factor (vWF), factor VIII or tissue factor, that was mediated, at least in part, by IL-1β. Additionally, S protein failed to enhance ADAMTS-13 levels to counteract the pro-coagulant activity of vWF multimers. Monocytes and HUVEC barely expressed angiotensin-converting enzyme-2. Pharmacological approaches and gene silencing showed that TLR4 receptors mediated the effects of S protein in monocytes, but not in HUVEC. CONCLUSION S protein behaves both as a pro-inflammatory and pro-coagulant stimulus in human monocytes and endothelial cells. Interfering with the receptors or signaling pathways evoked by the S protein may help preventing immune and vascular complications driven by such an isolated viral element. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Villacampa
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Enrique Alfaro
- Respiratory Diseases Group, Respiratory Service, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Morales
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Díaz-García
- Respiratory Diseases Group, Respiratory Service, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina López-Fernández
- Respiratory Diseases Group, Respiratory Service, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Luis Bartha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Service, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Óscar Lorenzo
- Laboratory of Diabetes and Vascular pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre on Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Salvador Moncada
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos F Sánchez-Ferrer
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Vascular Pharmacology and Metabolism (FARMAVASM) group, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco García-Río
- Respiratory Diseases Group, Respiratory Service, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carolina Cubillos-Zapata
- Respiratory Diseases Group, Respiratory Service, La Paz University Hospital, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain.
- Biomedical Research Networking Center on Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Concepción Peiró
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
- Vascular Pharmacology and Metabolism (FARMAVASM) group, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain.
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25
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Hulscher N, Hodkinson R, Makis W, McCullough PA. Autopsy findings in cases of fatal COVID-19 vaccine-induced myocarditis. ESC Heart Fail 2024. [PMID: 38221509 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.14680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccines have been linked to myocarditis, which, in some circumstances, can be fatal. This systematic review aims to investigate potential causal links between COVID-19 vaccines and death from myocarditis using post-mortem analysis. We performed a systematic review of all published autopsy reports involving COVID-19 vaccination-induced myocarditis through 3 July 2023. All autopsy studies that include COVID-19 vaccine-induced myocarditis as a possible cause of death were included. Causality in each case was assessed by three independent physicians with cardiac pathology experience and expertise. We initially identified 1691 studies and, after screening for our inclusion criteria, included 14 papers that contained 28 autopsy cases. The cardiovascular system was the only organ system affected in 26 cases. In two cases, myocarditis was characterized as a consequence from multisystem inflammatory syndrome. The mean age of death was 44.4 years old. The mean and median number of days from last COVID-19 vaccination until death were 6.2 and 3 days, respectively. We established that all 28 deaths were most likely causally linked to COVID-19 vaccination by independent review of the clinical information presented in each paper. The temporal relationship, internal and external consistency seen among cases in this review with known COVID-19 vaccine-induced myocarditis, its pathobiological mechanisms, and related excess death, complemented with autopsy confirmation, independent adjudication, and application of the Bradford Hill criteria to the overall epidemiology of vaccine myocarditis, suggests that there is a high likelihood of a causal link between COVID-19 vaccines and death from myocarditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Hulscher
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - William Makis
- The Wellness Company, Boca Raton, FL, USA
- Cross Cancer Institute, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Peter A McCullough
- The Wellness Company, Boca Raton, FL, USA
- Truth for Health Foundation, Tucson, AZ, USA
- McCullough Foundation, Dallas, TX, USA
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26
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Mead MN, Seneff S, Wolfinger R, Rose J, Denhaerynck K, Kirsch S, McCullough PA. COVID-19 mRNA Vaccines: Lessons Learned from the Registrational Trials and Global Vaccination Campaign. Cureus 2024; 16:e52876. [PMID: 38274635 PMCID: PMC10810638 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52876] [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: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of COVID-19 vaccinations and their impact on health and mortality has evolved substantially since the first vaccine rollouts. Published reports from the original randomized phase 3 trials concluded that the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines could greatly reduce COVID-19 symptoms. In the interim, problems with the methods, execution, and reporting of these pivotal trials have emerged. Re-analysis of the Pfizer trial data identified statistically significant increases in serious adverse events (SAEs) in the vaccine group. Numerous SAEs were identified following the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), including death, cancer, cardiac events, and various autoimmune, hematological, reproductive, and neurological disorders. Furthermore, these products never underwent adequate safety and toxicological testing in accordance with previously established scientific standards. Among the other major topics addressed in this narrative review are the published analyses of serious harms to humans, quality control issues and process-related impurities, mechanisms underlying adverse events (AEs), the immunologic basis for vaccine inefficacy, and concerning mortality trends based on the registrational trial data. The risk-benefit imbalance substantiated by the evidence to date contraindicates further booster injections and suggests that, at a minimum, the mRNA injections should be removed from the childhood immunization program until proper safety and toxicological studies are conducted. Federal agency approval of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines on a blanket-coverage population-wide basis had no support from an honest assessment of all relevant registrational data and commensurate consideration of risks versus benefits. Given the extensive, well-documented SAEs and unacceptably high harm-to-reward ratio, we urge governments to endorse a global moratorium on the modified mRNA products until all relevant questions pertaining to causality, residual DNA, and aberrant protein production are answered.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Nathaniel Mead
- Biology and Nutritional Epidemiology, Independent Research, Copper Hill, USA
| | - Stephanie Seneff
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, USA
| | - Russ Wolfinger
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Independent Research, Research Triangle Park, USA
| | - Jessica Rose
- Immunology and Public Health Research, Independent Research, Ottawa, CAN
| | - Kris Denhaerynck
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Independent Research, Basel, CHE
| | - Steve Kirsch
- Data Science, Independent Research, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Peter A McCullough
- Cardiology, Epidemiology, and Public Health, McCullough Foundation, Dallas, USA
- Cardiology, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Truth for Health Foundation, Tucson, USA
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27
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Perico L, Benigni A, Remuzzi G. SARS-CoV-2 and the spike protein in endotheliopathy. Trends Microbiol 2024; 32:53-67. [PMID: 37393180 PMCID: PMC10258582 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2023.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, primarily affects the epithelial compartment in the upper and lower airways. There is evidence that the microvasculature in both the pulmonary and extrapulmonary systems is a major target of SARS-CoV-2. Consistent with this, vascular dysfunction and thrombosis are the most severe complications in COVID-19. The proinflammatory milieu triggered by the hyperactivation of the immune system by SARS-CoV-2 has been suggested to be the main trigger for endothelial dysfunction during COVID-19. More recently, a rapidly growing number of reports have indicated that SARS-CoV-2 can interact directly with endothelial cells through the spike protein, leading to multiple instances of endothelial dysfunction. Here, we describe all the available findings showing the direct effect of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein on endothelial cells and offer mechanistic insights into the molecular basis of vascular dysfunction in severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Perico
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Centro Anna Maria Astori, Bergamo, Italy.
| | - Ariela Benigni
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Centro Anna Maria Astori, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Remuzzi
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Centro Anna Maria Astori, Bergamo, Italy
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28
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Akhtar M, Islam MR, Khaton F, Soltana UH, Jafrin SA, Rahman SIA, Tauheed I, Ahmed T, Khan II, Akter A, Khan ZH, Islam MT, Khanam F, Biswas PK, Ahmmed F, Ahmed S, Rashid MM, Hossain MZ, Alam AN, Alamgir ASM, Rahman M, Ryan ET, Harris JB, LaRocque RC, Flora MS, Chowdhury F, Khan AI, Banu S, Shirin T, Bhuiyan TR, Qadri F. Appearance of tolerance-induction and non-inflammatory SARS-CoV-2 spike-specific IgG4 antibodies after COVID-19 booster vaccinations. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1309997. [PMID: 38173725 PMCID: PMC10763240 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1309997] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Understanding the characteristics of the humoral immune responses following COVID-19 vaccinations is crucial for refining vaccination strategies and predicting immune responses to emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. Methods A longitudinal analysis of SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor binding domain (RBD) specific IgG antibody responses, encompassing IgG subclasses IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4 was performed. Participants received four mRNA vaccine doses (group 1; n=10) or two ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 and two mRNA booster doses (group 2; n=19) in Bangladesh over two years. Results Findings demonstrate robust IgG responses after primary Covishield or mRNA doses; declining to baseline within six months. First mRNA booster restored and surpassed primary IgG responses but waned after six months. Surprisingly, a second mRNA booster did not increase IgG levels further. Comprehensive IgG subclass analysis showed primary Covishield/mRNA vaccination generated predominantly IgG1 responses with limited IgG2/IgG3, Remarkably, IgG4 responses exhibited a distinct pattern. IgG4 remained undetectable initially but increased extensively six months after the second mRNA dose, eventually replacing IgG1 after the 3rd/4th mRNA doses. Conversely, initial Covishield recipients lack IgG4, surged post-second mRNA booster. Notably, mRNA-vaccinated individuals displayed earlier, robust IgG4 levels post first mRNA booster versus Covishield counterparts. IgG1 to IgG4 ratios decreased with increasing doses, most pronounced with four mRNA doses. This study highlights IgG response kinetics, influenced by vaccine type and doses, impacting immunological tolerance and IgG4 induction, shaping future vaccination strategies. Conclusions This study highlights the dynamics of IgG responses dependent on vaccine type and number of doses, leading to immunological tolerance and IgG4 induction, and shaping future vaccination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjahan Akhtar
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Rashedul Islam
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Fatema Khaton
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Umma Hany Soltana
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Syeda Anoushka Jafrin
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sadia Isfat Ara Rahman
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Imam Tauheed
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Tasnuva Ahmed
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Ishtiakul Islam Khan
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Afroza Akter
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Zahid Hasan Khan
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Taufiqul Islam
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Farhana Khanam
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Prasanta Kumar Biswas
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Faisal Ahmmed
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Shakeel Ahmed
- Bangladesh Institute of Tropical & Infectious Diseases, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Mamunur Rashid
- Bangladesh Institute of Tropical & Infectious Diseases, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Zakir Hossain
- Bangladesh Institute of Tropical & Infectious Diseases, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Ahmed Nawsher Alam
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - A. S. M. Alamgir
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mahbubur Rahman
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Edward T. Ryan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jason B. Harris
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Regina C. LaRocque
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Fahima Chowdhury
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Ashraful Islam Khan
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sayera Banu
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Tahmina Shirin
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Taufiqur Rahman Bhuiyan
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Firdausi Qadri
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Zurlo M, Gasparello J, Verona M, Papi C, Cosenza LC, Finotti A, Marzaro G, Gambari R. The anti-SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2 vaccine suppresses mithramycin-induced erythroid differentiation and expression of embryo-fetal globin genes in human erythroleukemia K562 cells. Exp Cell Res 2023; 433:113853. [PMID: 37944576 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113853] [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: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is causative of the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein (S-protein) plays an important role in the early phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection through efficient interaction with ACE2. The S-protein is produced by RNA-based COVID-19 vaccines, that were fundamental for the reduction of the viral spread within the population and the clinical severity of COVID-19. However, the S-protein has been hypothesized to be responsible for damaging cells of several tissues and for some important side effects of RNA-based COVID-19 vaccines. Considering the impact of COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 infection on the hematopoietic system, the aim of this study was to verify the effect of the BNT162b2 vaccine on erythroid differentiation of the human K562 cell line, that has been in the past intensively studied as a model system mimicking some steps of erythropoiesis. In this context, we focused on hemoglobin production and induced expression of embryo-fetal globin genes, that are among the most important features of K562 erythroid differentiation. We found that the BNT162b2 vaccine suppresses mithramycin-induced erythroid differentiation of K562 cells. Reverse-transcription-qPCR and Western blotting assays demonstrated that suppression of erythroid differentiation was associated with sharp inhibition of the expression of α-globin and γ-globin mRNA accumulation. Inhibition of accumulation of ζ-globin and ε-globin mRNAs was also observed. In addition, we provide in silico studies suggesting a direct interaction between SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein and Hb Portland, that is the major hemoglobin produced by K562 cells. This study thus provides information suggesting the need of great attention on possible alteration of hematopoietic parameters following SARS-CoV-2 infection and/or COVID-19 vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Zurlo
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Jessica Gasparello
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marco Verona
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Chiara Papi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lucia Carmela Cosenza
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessia Finotti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Center 'Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago' for the Research on Thalassemia, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Marzaro
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Center 'Chiara Gemmo and Elio Zago' for the Research on Thalassemia, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
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30
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Zhang J, Askenase P, Jaenisch R, Crumpacker CS. Approaches to pandemic prevention - the chromatin vaccine. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1324084. [PMID: 38143744 PMCID: PMC10739501 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1324084] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Developing effective vaccines against viral infections have significant impacts on development, prosperity and well-being of human populations. Thus, successful vaccines such as smallpox and polio vaccines, have promoted global societal well-being. In contrast, ineffective vaccines may fuel arguments that retard scientific progress. We aim to stimulate a multilevel discussion on how to develop effective vaccines against recent and future pandemics by focusing on acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), coronavirus disease (COVID) and other viral infections. We appeal to harnessing recent achievements in this field specifically towards a cure for current pandemics and prevention of the next pandemics. Among these, we propose to apply the HIV DNA in chromatin format - an end product of aborted HIV integration in episomal forms, i.e., the chromatin vaccines (cVacc), to elicit the epigenetic silencing and memory that prevent viral replication and infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jielin Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Philip Askenase
- Allergy & Clinical Immunology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Rudolf Jaenisch
- Department of Biology, Whitehead Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Clyde S. Crumpacker
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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31
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Liu Y, Zhou Y, Xu W, Li J, Wang S, Shen X, Wen X, Liu L. Aptamer-based kinetically controlled DNA reactions coupled with metal-organic framework nanoprobes for sensitive detection of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2023; 15:6583-6589. [PMID: 38014562 DOI: 10.1039/d3ay01585h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Since the outbreak in 2019, COVID-19, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has become the deadliest infectious disease worldwide for people of all ages, from children to older adults. As a main structural protein of SARS-CoV-2, spike protein is reported to play a key role in the entry of the virus into host cells and is considered as an effective antigenic marker for COVID-19 diagnosis. Herein, we develop a new aptamer-based fluorescence method for SARS-CoV-2 spike protein detection based on using kinetically controlled DNA reactions and metal-organic framework nanoprobes. Specifically, the binding of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to its aptamer is designed to precisely control the kinetics of a DNA displacement reaction, leading to the release of free signaling probes. By reasonable integration of magnetic enrichment and exonuclease-fuelled recycling, the released probes efficiently disrupt the interaction within metal-organic framework nanoprobes, thereby generating a remarkable fluorescent response. Experimental results show that the method not only exhibits a wide linear range and a low detection limit of 7.8 fg mL-1 for SARS-CoV-2 spike protein detection but also demonstrates desirable specificity and utility in complex samples. Therefore, the method may provide a valuable tool for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, and has bright prospects in the rapid diagnosis of COVID-19, which is of great significance for guiding rational treatment during a pandemic of respiratory infectious diseases and reducing the occurrence of severe disease in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu 610021, Sichuan, China.
| | - Yuanlin Zhou
- Department of Pediatrics, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu 610021, Sichuan, China.
| | - Wanting Xu
- Department of Pediatrics, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu 610021, Sichuan, China.
| | - Jiarong Li
- College of Clinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Shuning Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Xiaojia Shen
- Department of Pediatrics, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu 610021, Sichuan, China.
| | - Xiaobin Wen
- Department of Pediatrics, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu 610021, Sichuan, China.
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu 610021, Sichuan, China.
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32
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Okuno S, Higo S, Kondo T, Shiba M, Kameda S, Inoue H, Tabata T, Ogawa S, Morishita Y, Sun C, Ishino S, Honda T, Miyagawa S, Sakata Y. SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor-binding domain is internalized and promotes protein ISGylation in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21397. [PMID: 38049441 PMCID: PMC10696029 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48084-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Although an increased risk of myocarditis has been observed after vaccination with mRNA encoding severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 spike protein, its underlying mechanism has not been elucidated. This study investigated the direct effects of spike receptor-binding domain (S-RBD) on human cardiomyocytes differentiated from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC-CMs). Immunostaining experiments using ACE2 wild-type (WT) and knockout (KO) iPSC-CMs treated with purified S-RBD demonstrated that S-RBD was bound to ACE2 and internalized into the subcellular space in the iPSC-CMs, depending on ACE2. Immunostaining combined with live cell imaging using a recombinant S-RBD fused to the superfolder GFP (S-RBD-sfGFP) demonstrated that S-RBD was bound to the cell membrane, co-localized with RAB5A, and then delivered from the endosomes to the lysosomes in iPSC-CMs. Quantitative PCR array analysis followed by single cell RNA sequence analysis clarified that S-RBD-sfGFP treatment significantly upregulated the NF-kβ pathway-related gene (CXCL1) in the differentiated non-cardiomyocytes, while upregulated interferon (IFN)-responsive genes (IFI6, ISG15, and IFITM3) in the matured cardiomyocytes. S-RBD-sfGFP treatment promoted protein ISGylation, an ISG15-mediated post-translational modification in ACE2-WT-iPSC-CMs, which was suppressed in ACE2-KO-iPSC-CMs. Our experimental study demonstrates that S-RBD is internalized through the endolysosomal pathway, which upregulates IFN-responsive genes and promotes ISGylation in the iPSC-CMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Okuno
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Shuichiro Higo
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
- Department of Medical Therapeutics for Heart Failure, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Takumi Kondo
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Mikio Shiba
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kameda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Inoue
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tomoka Tabata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Shou Ogawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yu Morishita
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Congcong Sun
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Saki Ishino
- CoMIT Omics Center, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Honda
- Department of Virology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kita-Ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Kita-Ku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Shigeru Miyagawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yasushi Sakata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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33
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Scheim DE, Vottero P, Santin AD, Hirsh AG. Sialylated Glycan Bindings from SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein to Blood and Endothelial Cells Govern the Severe Morbidities of COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17039. [PMID: 38069362 PMCID: PMC10871123 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242317039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Consistent with well-established biochemical properties of coronaviruses, sialylated glycan attachments between SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (SP) and host cells are key to the virus's pathology. SARS-CoV-2 SP attaches to and aggregates red blood cells (RBCs), as shown in many pre-clinical and clinical studies, causing pulmonary and extrapulmonary microthrombi and hypoxia in severe COVID-19 patients. SARS-CoV-2 SP attachments to the heavily sialylated surfaces of platelets (which, like RBCs, have no ACE2) and endothelial cells (having minimal ACE2) compound this vascular damage. Notably, experimentally induced RBC aggregation in vivo causes the same key morbidities as for severe COVID-19, including microvascular occlusion, blood clots, hypoxia and myocarditis. Key risk factors for COVID-19 morbidity, including older age, diabetes and obesity, are all characterized by markedly increased propensity to RBC clumping. For mammalian species, the degree of clinical susceptibility to COVID-19 correlates to RBC aggregability with p = 0.033. Notably, of the five human betacoronaviruses, the two common cold strains express an enzyme that releases glycan attachments, while the deadly SARS, SARS-CoV-2 and MERS do not, although viral loads for COVID-19 and the two common cold infections are similar. These biochemical insights also explain the previously puzzling clinical efficacy of certain generics against COVID-19 and may support the development of future therapeutic strategies for COVID-19 and long COVID patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E Scheim
- US Public Health Service, Commissioned Corps, Inactive Reserve, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA
| | - Paola Vottero
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2, Canada
| | - Alessandro D Santin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208063, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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34
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Nolan TM, Deliyannis G, Griffith M, Braat S, Allen LF, Audsley J, Chung AW, Ciula M, Gherardin NA, Giles ML, Gordon TP, Grimley SL, Horng L, Jackson DC, Juno JA, Kedzierska K, Kent SJ, Lewin SR, Littlejohn M, McQuilten HA, Mordant FL, Nguyen THO, Soo VP, Price B, Purcell DFJ, Ramanathan P, Redmond SJ, Rockman S, Ruan Z, Sasadeusz J, Simpson JA, Subbarao K, Fabb SA, Payne TJ, Takanashi A, Tan CW, Torresi J, Wang JJ, Wang LF, Al-Wassiti H, Wong CY, Zaloumis S, Pouton CW, Godfrey DI. Interim results from a phase I randomized, placebo-controlled trial of novel SARS-CoV-2 beta variant receptor-binding domain recombinant protein and mRNA vaccines as a 4th dose booster. EBioMedicine 2023; 98:104878. [PMID: 38016322 PMCID: PMC10696466 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND SARS-CoV-2 booster vaccination should ideally enhance protection against variants and minimise immune imprinting. This Phase I trial evaluated two vaccines targeting SARS-CoV-2 beta-variant receptor-binding domain (RBD): a recombinant dimeric RBD-human IgG1 Fc-fusion protein, and an mRNA encoding a membrane-anchored RBD. METHODS 76 healthy adults aged 18-64 y, previously triple vaccinated with licensed SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, were randomised to receive a 4th dose of either an adjuvanted (MF59®, CSL Seqirus) protein vaccine (5, 15 or 45 μg, N = 32), mRNA vaccine (10, 20, or 50 μg, N = 32), or placebo (saline, N = 12) at least 90 days after a 3rd boost vaccination or SARS-CoV-2 infection. Bleeds occurred on days 1 (prior to vaccination), 8, and 29. CLINICALTRIALS govNCT05272605. FINDINGS No vaccine-related serious or medically-attended adverse events occurred. The protein vaccine reactogenicity was mild, whereas the mRNA vaccine was moderately reactogenic at higher dose levels. Best anti-RBD antibody responses resulted from the higher doses of each vaccine. A similar pattern was seen with live virus neutralisation and surrogate, and pseudovirus neutralisation assays. Breadth of immune response was demonstrated against BA.5 and more recent omicron subvariants (XBB, XBB.1.5 and BQ.1.1). Binding antibody titres for both vaccines were comparable to those of a licensed bivalent mRNA vaccine. Both vaccines enhanced CD4+ and CD8+ T cell activation. INTERPRETATION There were no safety concerns and the reactogenicity profile was mild and similar to licensed SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Both vaccines showed strong immune boosting against beta, ancestral and omicron strains. FUNDING Australian Government Medical Research Future Fund, and philanthropies Jack Ma Foundation and IFM investors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry M Nolan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Georgia Deliyannis
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Maryanne Griffith
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sabine Braat
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lilith F Allen
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jennifer Audsley
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Amy W Chung
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marcin Ciula
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nicholas A Gherardin
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michelle L Giles
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tom P Gordon
- Department of Immunology, Flinders University and SA Pathology, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Samantha L Grimley
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lana Horng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David C Jackson
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jennifer A Juno
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Katherine Kedzierska
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia; Global Station for Zoonosis Control, Global Institution for Collaborative Research and Education (GI-CoRE), Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Stephen J Kent
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sharon R Lewin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, Melbourne, Australia; Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mason Littlejohn
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Hayley A McQuilten
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Francesca L Mordant
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Thi H O Nguyen
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Vanessa Pac Soo
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Briony Price
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Damian F J Purcell
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Pradhipa Ramanathan
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Samuel J Redmond
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Steven Rockman
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia; CSL Seqirus, Vaccine Innovation Unit, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Zheng Ruan
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Joseph Sasadeusz
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Hospital and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Julie A Simpson
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kanta Subbarao
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia; WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Influenza at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Australia
| | - Stewart A Fabb
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Parkville, Australia
| | - Thomas J Payne
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Parkville, Australia
| | - Asuka Takanashi
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Parkville, Australia
| | - Chee Wah Tan
- Duke NUS Medical School, Programme for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Singapore
| | - Joseph Torresi
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jing Jing Wang
- Department of Immunology, Flinders University and SA Pathology, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Lin-Fa Wang
- Duke NUS Medical School, Programme for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Singapore
| | | | - Chinn Yi Wong
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sophie Zaloumis
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Colin W Pouton
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Parkville, Australia
| | - Dale I Godfrey
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
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35
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Khan S, Marquez-Martinez S, Erkens T, de Wilde A, Costes LMM, Vinken P, De Jonghe S, Roosen W, Talia C, Chamanza R, Serroyen J, Tolboom J, Zahn RC, Wegmann F. Intravenous Administration of Ad26.COV2.S Does Not Induce Thrombocytopenia or Thrombotic Events or Affect SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Bioavailability in Blood Compared with Intramuscular Vaccination in Rabbits. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1792. [PMID: 38140195 PMCID: PMC10747520 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11121792] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a very rare but serious adverse reaction that can occur after Ad26.COV2.S vaccination in humans, leading to thrombosis at unusual anatomic sites. One hypothesis is that accidental intravenous (IV) administration of Ad26.COV2.S or drainage of the vaccine from the muscle into the circulatory system may result in interaction of the vaccine with blood factors associated with platelet activation, leading to VITT. Here, we demonstrate that, similar to intramuscular (IM) administration of Ad26.COV2.S in rabbits, IV dosing was well tolerated, with no significant differences between dosing routes for the assessed hematologic, coagulation time, innate immune, or clinical chemistry parameters and no histopathologic indication of thrombotic events. For both routes, all other non-adverse findings observed were consistent with a normal vaccine response and comparable to those observed for unrelated or other Ad26-based control vaccines. However, Ad26.COV2.S induced significantly higher levels of C-reactive protein on day 1 after IM vaccination compared with an Ad26-based control vaccine encoding a different transgene, suggesting an inflammatory effect of the vaccine-encoded spike protein. Although based on a limited number of animals, these data indicate that an accidental IV injection of Ad26.COV2.S may not represent an increased risk for VITT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selina Khan
- Janssen Vaccines & Prevention, 2333 CN Leiden, The Netherlands; (S.M.-M.); (A.d.W.); (L.M.M.C.); (J.S.); (J.T.); (F.W.)
| | - Sonia Marquez-Martinez
- Janssen Vaccines & Prevention, 2333 CN Leiden, The Netherlands; (S.M.-M.); (A.d.W.); (L.M.M.C.); (J.S.); (J.T.); (F.W.)
| | - Tim Erkens
- Janssen Research & Development—A Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340 Beerse, Belgium; (T.E.); (S.D.J.); (W.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Adriaan de Wilde
- Janssen Vaccines & Prevention, 2333 CN Leiden, The Netherlands; (S.M.-M.); (A.d.W.); (L.M.M.C.); (J.S.); (J.T.); (F.W.)
| | - Lea M. M. Costes
- Janssen Vaccines & Prevention, 2333 CN Leiden, The Netherlands; (S.M.-M.); (A.d.W.); (L.M.M.C.); (J.S.); (J.T.); (F.W.)
| | - Petra Vinken
- Janssen Research & Development—A Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340 Beerse, Belgium; (T.E.); (S.D.J.); (W.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Sandra De Jonghe
- Janssen Research & Development—A Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340 Beerse, Belgium; (T.E.); (S.D.J.); (W.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Wendy Roosen
- Janssen Research & Development—A Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340 Beerse, Belgium; (T.E.); (S.D.J.); (W.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Chiara Talia
- Janssen Research & Development—A Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340 Beerse, Belgium; (T.E.); (S.D.J.); (W.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Ronnie Chamanza
- Janssen Research & Development—A Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, 2340 Beerse, Belgium; (T.E.); (S.D.J.); (W.R.); (C.T.)
| | - Jan Serroyen
- Janssen Vaccines & Prevention, 2333 CN Leiden, The Netherlands; (S.M.-M.); (A.d.W.); (L.M.M.C.); (J.S.); (J.T.); (F.W.)
| | - Jeroen Tolboom
- Janssen Vaccines & Prevention, 2333 CN Leiden, The Netherlands; (S.M.-M.); (A.d.W.); (L.M.M.C.); (J.S.); (J.T.); (F.W.)
| | - Roland C. Zahn
- Janssen Vaccines & Prevention, 2333 CN Leiden, The Netherlands; (S.M.-M.); (A.d.W.); (L.M.M.C.); (J.S.); (J.T.); (F.W.)
| | - Frank Wegmann
- Janssen Vaccines & Prevention, 2333 CN Leiden, The Netherlands; (S.M.-M.); (A.d.W.); (L.M.M.C.); (J.S.); (J.T.); (F.W.)
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Baritussio A, Giordani AS, Basso C, Vicenzetto C, Lorenzoni G, Gasparin M, Iliceto S, Scarpa B, Gregori D, Marcolongo R, Caforio ALP. Uneventful COVID-19 Infection and Vaccination in a Cohort of Patients with Prior Myocarditis. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1742. [PMID: 38140147 PMCID: PMC10747303 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11121742] [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: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Myocarditis has in rare cases been associated with COVID-19 infection and has emerged as a possible rare side effect of vaccination with anti-COVID-19 messenger RNA vaccines. However, little is known about possible COVID-19 infection- and/or vaccination-related myocarditis relapse in patients with previous clinically suspected or biopsy-proven myocarditis. Myocarditis may relapse, particularly in females with immune-mediated/autoimmune features and a predisposing immunogenetic background. We aimed to assess the prevalence of myocarditis relapse during the COVID-19 outbreak and following COVID-19 vaccination in a cohort of patients with prior myocarditis. We included in the analysis myocarditis patients on active follow-up, for whom COVID-19 infection and vaccination statuses were known, and collected data on clinical, laboratory and echocardiographic findings, and myocarditis relapse. We enrolled 409 patients, of whom 114 (28%) reported COVID-19 infection and 347 (85%) completed the vaccination scheme. Only one patient, having COVID-19 infection before the vaccination campaign started, was admitted to hospital because of pneumonia; the remaining patients had an uneventful COVID-19 infection course, with only mild symptoms. No myocarditis relapse was recorded following COVID-19 infection or vaccination. Moreover, the frequency of new myocarditis cases following the COVID-19 outbreak was not different compared to the three-year period preceding the COVID-19 era. In conclusion, in our cohort of patients with prior myocarditis, both COVID-19 infection and vaccination were uneventful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Baritussio
- Cardiology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padua University Hospital, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (A.B.); (A.S.G.); (C.V.); (S.I.); (R.M.)
| | - Andrea Silvio Giordani
- Cardiology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padua University Hospital, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (A.B.); (A.S.G.); (C.V.); (S.I.); (R.M.)
| | - Cristina Basso
- Cardiac Pathology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy;
| | - Cristina Vicenzetto
- Cardiology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padua University Hospital, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (A.B.); (A.S.G.); (C.V.); (S.I.); (R.M.)
| | - Giulia Lorenzoni
- Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (G.L.); (D.G.)
| | - Matteo Gasparin
- Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (M.G.); (B.S.)
| | - Sabino Iliceto
- Cardiology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padua University Hospital, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (A.B.); (A.S.G.); (C.V.); (S.I.); (R.M.)
| | - Bruno Scarpa
- Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (M.G.); (B.S.)
- Department of Mathematics “Tullio Levi Civita”, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Dario Gregori
- Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (G.L.); (D.G.)
| | - Renzo Marcolongo
- Cardiology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padua University Hospital, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (A.B.); (A.S.G.); (C.V.); (S.I.); (R.M.)
| | - Alida Linda Patrizia Caforio
- Cardiology, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Padua University Hospital, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (A.B.); (A.S.G.); (C.V.); (S.I.); (R.M.)
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Golstein MA, Fagnart O, Steinfeld SD. Reactive arthritis after COVID-19 vaccination: 17 cases. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2023; 62:3706-3709. [PMID: 37084272 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kead169] [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: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study is to report a series of 17 cases of ankle bi-arthritis that occurred shortly after coronavirus disease 2019 RNA vaccination, and to discuss the potential role of these vaccines in the pathogenesis of this rheumatological manifestation. METHODS All patients were examined in the same department and received a full work-up to investigate the usual causes of ankle bi-arthritis. No rheumatic inflammatory disease occurred after 9 months of follow-up. A post-vaccination serological follow-up in search of anti-Spike antibodies was requested for all patients. RESULTS All patients recovered with low dose of prednisolone within <2 months, except one who could not be weaned off CS. The level of antibodies found was very high in all patients. CONCLUSION The ankle bi-arthritis occurrence chronology, the follow-up and the similar clinical presentation might suggest a pathogenic role of RNA vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Olivier Fagnart
- CEBIODI Clinical Biology Laboratory, Saint-Jean Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
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Cotugno N, Amodio D, Buonsenso D, Palma P. Susceptibility of SARS-CoV2 infection in children. Eur J Pediatr 2023; 182:4851-4857. [PMID: 37702769 PMCID: PMC10640404 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05184-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 in children presents with distinct phenotype in comparison to adults. Overall, the pediatric infection with a generally milder clinical course of the acute infection compared to adults still faces several unknown aspects. Specifically, the presence of a wide range of inflammatory manifestations, including multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), myocarditis, and long COVID in the period after infection suggests a particular susceptibility of some children upon severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Albeit peculiar complications such as long covid are less frequent in children compared to adults, research on the relationship between inflammatory syndromes and SARS-CoV-2 is rapidly evolving. Conclusions: new studies and findings continue to emerge, providing further insights into the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies. In the present work, we revised current knowledge of the main factors accounting for such variability upon SARS-CoV-2 infection over the pediatric age group. What is Known: • COVID19 in children overall showed a milder course compared to adults during the acute phase of the infection. • Children showed to be susceptible to a wide range of post infectious complications including multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), myocarditis, neuroinflammation, and long COVID. What is New: • Mechanisms underlying susceptibility to a severe course of the infection were recently shown to pertain to the host. • A specific combination of HLA was recently shown to be associated to higher susceptibility to MIS-C in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Cotugno
- Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165, Rome, Italy
- Chair of Pediatrics, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Donato Amodio
- Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165, Rome, Italy
- Chair of Pediatrics, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Buonsenso
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Centro di Salute Globale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Palma
- Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165, Rome, Italy.
- Chair of Pediatrics, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.
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Hulscher N, Procter BC, Wynn C, McCullough PA. Clinical Approach to Post-acute Sequelae After COVID-19 Infection and Vaccination. Cureus 2023; 15:e49204. [PMID: 38024037 PMCID: PMC10663976 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49204] [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] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 has been found to exhibit pathogenic characteristics and be a possible cause of post-acute sequelae after SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 vaccination. COVID-19 vaccines utilize a modified, stabilized prefusion spike protein that may share similar toxic effects with its viral counterpart. The aim of this study is to investigate possible mechanisms of harm to biological systems from SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and vaccine-encoded spike protein and to propose possible mitigation strategies. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and 'grey literature' to find studies that (1) investigated the effects of the spike protein on biological systems, (2) helped differentiate between viral and vaccine-generated spike proteins, and (3) identified possible spike protein detoxification protocols and compounds that had signals of benefit and acceptable safety profiles. We found abundant evidence that SARS-CoV-2 spike protein may cause damage in the cardiovascular, hematological, neurological, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and immunological systems. Viral and vaccine-encoded spike proteins have been shown to play a direct role in cardiovascular and thrombotic injuries from both SARS-CoV-2 and vaccination. Detection of spike protein for at least 6-15 months after vaccination and infection in those with post-acute sequelae indicates spike protein as a possible primary contributing factor to long COVID. We rationalized that these findings give support to the potential benefit of spike protein detoxification protocols in those with long-term post-infection and/or vaccine-induced complications. We propose a base spike detoxification protocol, composed of oral nattokinase, bromelain, and curcumin. This approach holds immense promise as a base of clinical care, upon which additional therapeutic agents are applied with the goal of aiding in the resolution of post-acute sequelae after SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination. Large-scale, prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials are warranted in order to determine the relative risks and benefits of the base spike detoxification protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Hulscher
- Epidemiology, Unversity of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, USA
| | | | - Cade Wynn
- Family Medicine, McKinney Family Medicine, McKinney, USA
| | - Peter A McCullough
- Internal Medicine, Cardiology, McKinney Family Medicine, McKinney, USA
- Cardiology, Epidemiology, and Public Health, McCullough Foundation, Dallas, USA
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Bejoy J, Williams CI, Cole HJ, Manzoor S, Davoodi P, Battaile JI, Kaushik A, Nikolaienko SI, Brelidze TI, Gychka SG, Suzuki YJ. Effects of spike proteins on angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Arch Biochem Biophys 2023; 748:109769. [PMID: 37769892 PMCID: PMC10615800 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2023.109769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which enters host cells through interactions of its spike protein to Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2). ACE2 is a peptidase that cleaves Angiotensin II, a critical pathological mediator. This study investigated if the spike protein binding to ACE2 compromises its peptidase activity. Spike/ACE2 Binding Assays suggested that spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, but not HKU1, bind to ACE2. S1 and receptor-binding domain (RBD), but not S2, extracellular domain (ECD) or CendR domain, bind to ACE2. While glycosylated spike proteins prepared in HEK293 cells bind to ACE2, non-glycosylated proteins produced in E. coli do not. Cysteine residues of the spike protein expressed in HEK293 cells are fully oxidized, while those of the protein expressed in E. coli are reduced. The deglycosylation of HEK cell-produced protein attenuates the ACE2 binding, while the oxidation of the E. coli protein does not promote the binding. The S1 protein of SARS-CoV-2 enhances the ACE2 peptidase activity, while SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV or HKU1 does not. The ACE2 activity is enhanced by RBD, but not ECD or CendR. In contrast to distinct ACE2 binding capacities of proteins expressed in HEK293 cells and in E. coli, spike proteins expressed in both systems enhance the ACE2 activity. Thus, the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, but not other coronaviruses, enhances the ACE2 peptidase activity through its RBD in a glycosylation-independent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennyfer Bejoy
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Charlye I Williams
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Hattie J Cole
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Shavaiz Manzoor
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Parsa Davoodi
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Jacqueline I Battaile
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Arjun Kaushik
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Sofia I Nikolaienko
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, 01601, Ukraine
| | - Tinatin I Brelidze
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Sergiy G Gychka
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, 01601, Ukraine
| | - Yuichiro J Suzuki
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA.
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Amodio D, Pascucci GR, Cotugno N, Rossetti C, Manno EC, Pighi C, Morrocchi E, D'Alessandro A, Perrone MA, Valentini A, Franceschini A, Chinali M, Deodati A, Azzari C, Rossi P, Cianfarani S, Andreani M, Porzio O, Palma P. Similarities and differences between myocarditis following COVID-19 mRNA vaccine and multiple inflammatory syndrome with cardiac involvement in children. Clin Immunol 2023; 255:109751. [PMID: 37660743 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2023.109751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Despite the multiple benefits of vaccination, cardiac adverse Events Following COVID-19 Immunization (c-AEFI) have been reported. These events as well as the severe cardiac involvement reported in Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) appear more frequent in young adult males. Herein, we firstly report on the inflammatory profiles of patients experiencing c-AEFI in comparison with age, pubertal age and gender matched MIS-C with cardiac involvement. Proteins related to systemic inflammation were found higher in MIS-C compared to c-AEFI, whereas a higher level in proteins related to myocardial injury was found in c-AEFI. In addition, higher levels of DHEAS, DHEA, and cortisone were found in c-AEFI which persisted at follow-up. No anti-heart muscle and anti-endothelial cell antibodies have been detected. Overall current comparative data showed a distinct inflammatory and androgens profile in c-AEFI patients which results to be well restricted on heart and to persist months after the acute event.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donato Amodio
- Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy; Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Rubens Pascucci
- Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy; Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Cotugno
- Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy; Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Rossetti
- Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Emma Concetta Manno
- Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Pighi
- Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Morrocchi
- Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Annamaria D'Alessandro
- Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory, IRCCS "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Alfonso Perrone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Cardiology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; Division of Cardiology and CardioLab, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy
| | - Alessandra Valentini
- Department of laboratory Medicine, University Hospital "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Alessio Franceschini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Cardiology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Marcello Chinali
- Department of Medical and Surgical Cardiology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Annalisa Deodati
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy; Diabetology and Growth Disorders Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00164 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Azzari
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Pediatrics, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Rossi
- Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy; Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Cianfarani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy; Diabetology and Growth Disorders Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00164 Rome, Italy; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marco Andreani
- Transplantation Immunogenetics Laboratory, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Ottavia Porzio
- Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory, IRCCS "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Palma
- Research Unit of Clinical Immunology and Vaccinology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy; Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.
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Wang CW, Wu MY, Chen CB, Lin WC, Wu J, Lu CW, Chen WT, Wang FY, Hui RCY, Chi MH, Chiu TM, Chang YC, Lin JY, Lin YYW, Tsai WT, Hung SI, Chung WH. Clinical characteristics and immune profiles of patients with immune-mediated alopecia associated with COVID-19 vaccinations. Clin Immunol 2023; 255:109737. [PMID: 37586672 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2023.109737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical characteristics and pathomechanism for immune-mediated alopecia following COVID-19 vaccinations are not clearly characterized. OBJECTIVE We investigated the causality and immune mechanism of COVID-19 vaccines-related alopecia areata (AA). STUDY DESIGN 27 new-onset of AA patients after COVID-19 vaccinations and 106 vaccines-tolerant individuals were enrolled from multiple medical centers for analysis. RESULTS The antinuclear antibody, total IgE, granulysin, and PARC/CCL18 as well as peripheral eosinophil count were significantly elevated in the patients with COVID-19 vaccines-related AA compared with those in the tolerant individuals (P = 2.03 × 10-5-0.039). In vitro lymphocyte activation test revealed that granulysin, granzyme B, and IFN-γ released from the T cells of COVID-19 vaccines-related AA patients could be significantly increased by COVID-19 vaccine excipients (polyethylene glycol 2000 and polysorbate 80) or spike protein (P = 0.002-0.04). CONCLUSIONS Spike protein and excipients of COVID-19 vaccines could trigger T cell-mediated cytotoxicity, which contributes to the pathogenesis of immune-mediated alopecia associated with COVID-19 vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuang-Wei Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan; Cancer Vaccine and Immune Cell Therapy Core Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan; Chang Gung Immunology Consortium, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University, Taiwan; Department of Dermatology, Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital, Xiamen, China
| | - Ming-Ying Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Bing Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan; Chang Gung Immunology Consortium, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University, Taiwan; Department of Dermatology, Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital, Xiamen, China; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Immune-Oncology Center of Excellence, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Whole-Genome Research Core Laboratory of Human Diseases, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Taiwan; School of Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chen Lin
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Jennifer Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Immune-Oncology Center of Excellence, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Wei Lu
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan; Department of Dermatology, Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital, Xiamen, China; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Immune-Oncology Center of Excellence, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Ti Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan; Department of Dermatology, Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital, Xiamen, China; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Ying Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, College of Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taiwan
| | - Rosaline Chung-Yee Hui
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Min-Hui Chi
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsu-Man Chiu
- Department of Dermatology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Ching Chang
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Jing Yi Lin
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yang Yu-Wei Lin
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Ting Tsai
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Shuen-Iu Hung
- Cancer Vaccine and Immune Cell Therapy Core Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan; Institute of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Wen-Hung Chung
- Department of Dermatology, Drug Hypersensitivity Clinical and Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taipei, Tucheng and Keelung, Taiwan; Cancer Vaccine and Immune Cell Therapy Core Laboratory, Department of Medical Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan; Chang Gung Immunology Consortium, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University, Taiwan; Department of Dermatology, Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital, Xiamen, China; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Immune-Oncology Center of Excellence, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan; Whole-Genome Research Core Laboratory of Human Diseases, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Taiwan; Allergology Consortium, Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital, Xiamen, China; Department of Dermatology, Beijing Tsinghua Chang Gung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China; Department of Dermatology, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Genomic Medicine Core Laboratory, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan.
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43
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Zheng A, Huang N, Bean D, Rayapaneni S, Deeney J, Sagar M, Hamilton JA. Resolvin E1 heals injured cardiomyocytes: Therapeutic implications and H-FABP as a readout for cardiovascular disease & systemic inflammation. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2023; 197:102586. [PMID: 37604082 PMCID: PMC11203388 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2023.102586] [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: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to investigate heart-fatty acid binding protein (H-FABP) leakage from cardiomyocytes as a quantitative measure of cell membrane damage and to test healing by Resolvin E1 (RVE1) as a potential therapeutic for patients with inflammatory diseases (cardiovascular disease and comorbidities) with high morbidity and mortality. Our quantitative ELISA assays demonstrated H-FABP as a sensitive and reliable biomarker for measuring cardiomyocyte damage induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and healing by RvE1, a specialized pro-resolving mediator (SPM) derived from the Omega-3 fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a dietary nutrient that balances inflammation to restore homeostasis. RvE1 reduced leakage of H-FABP by up to 86%, which supports our hypothesis that inflammation as a mechanism of injury can be targeted for therapy. H-FABP as a blood biomarker was tested in 40 patients admitted to Boston Medical Center for respiratory distress, (20 patients with and 20 patients without COVID infection). High levels of H-FABP correlated with clinically diagnosed CVD, diabetes, and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in both patient groups. The level of H-FABP indicates not only CVD damage but is a valuable measure for patients with increased inflammation disease comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zheng
- Boston University, United States of America
| | - N Huang
- Boston University School of Medicine, United States of America
| | - D Bean
- Boston University School of Medicine, United States of America
| | | | - Jude Deeney
- Boston University School of Medicine, United States of America
| | - M Sagar
- Boston Medical Center, United States of America
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44
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Ciabatti M, Zocchi C, Olivotto I, Bolognese L, Pieroni M. Myocarditis and COVID-19 related issues. Glob Cardiol Sci Pract 2023; 2023:e202328. [PMID: 38404624 PMCID: PMC10886760 DOI: 10.21542/gcsp.2023.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The recent COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) pandemic by SARS-CoV2 infection has caused millions of deaths and hospitalizations across the globe. In the early pandemic phases, the infection had been initially considered a primary pulmonary disease. However, increasing evidence has demonstrated a wide range of possible cardiac involvement. Most of systemic and cardiac damage is likely sustained by a complex interplay between inflammatory, immune-related and thrombotic mechanisms. Biventricular failure and myocardial damage with elevation of cardiac biomarkers have been reported in COVID-19 patients, although histological demonstration of acute myocarditis has been rarely documented. Indeed while cardiac magnetic resonance findings include different patterns of myocardial involvement in terms of late gadolinium enhancement, histological data from necropsy and endomyocardial biopsy showed peculiar inflammatory patterns, mostly composed by macrophages. On the other hand COVID-19 vaccines based on mRN technology have been also associated with increased risk of myocarditis. COVID-19 and mRNA vaccine-related myocarditis present different clinical and imaging presentations and recent data suggest the presence of distinctive immunological mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chiara Zocchi
- Cardiovascular Department, San Donato Hospital, Arezzo, Italy
| | - Iacopo Olivotto
- Cardiomyopathy Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Meyer Children Hospital, Florence, Italy
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45
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Yonker LM, Fasano A, Walt DR. Response by Yonker et al to Letter Regarding Article, "Circulating Spike Protein Detected in Post-COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine Myocarditis". Circulation 2023; 148:910-911. [PMID: 37695829 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.065629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lael M Yonker
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston (L.M.Y., A.F.)
| | | | - David R Walt
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA (D.R.W.)
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46
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Cosentino M, Marino F. Letter by Cosentino and Marino Regarding Article, "Circulating Spike Protein Detected in Post-COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine Myocarditis". Circulation 2023; 148:906-907. [PMID: 37695833 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.064000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cosentino
- Center of Research in Medical Pharmacology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Franca Marino
- Center of Research in Medical Pharmacology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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47
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Schwartz MD, Prasad KK. Letter by Schwartz and Prasad Regarding Article, "Circulating Spike Protein Detected in Post-COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine Myocarditis". Circulation 2023; 148:908-909. [PMID: 37695830 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.064414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kamla K Prasad
- Lehigh Valley Health Network, Pediatrics, Trexlertown, PA
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48
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Kadkhoda K. Post-COVID mRNA-vaccine IgG4 shift: worrisome? mSphere 2023; 8:e0008523. [PMID: 37191589 PMCID: PMC10449502 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00085-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccines play a key role in ending the pandemic. Unraveling the immunological phenomena involved in offering protective immunity is the cornerstone of achieving such success. This perspective evaluates the possible mechanisms and implications of IgG4 production in response to mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamran Kadkhoda
- Immunopathology Laboratory, Robert J. Tomsich Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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49
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Żak MM, Kaur K, Yoo J, Kurian AA, Adjmi M, Mainkar G, Yoon S, Zangi L. Modified mRNA Formulation and Stability for Cardiac and Skeletal Muscle Delivery. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2176. [PMID: 37765147 PMCID: PMC10535735 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Directly injecting naked or lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-encapsulated modified mRNA (modRNA) allows rapid and efficient protein expression. This non-viral technology has been used successfully in modRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2. The main challenges in using modRNA vaccines were the initial requirement for an ultra-cold storage to preserve their integrity and concerns regarding unwanted side effects from this new technology. Here, we showed that naked modRNA maintains its integrity when stored up to 7 days at 4 °C, and LNP-encapsulated modRNA for up to 7 days at room temperature. Naked modRNA is predominantly expressed at the site of injection when delivered into cardiac or skeletal muscle. In comparison, LNP-encapsulated modRNA granted superior protein expression but also additional protein expression beyond the cardiac or skeletal muscle injection site. To overcome this challenge, we developed a skeletal-muscle-specific modRNA translation system (skeletal muscle SMRTs) for LNP-encapsulated modRNA. This system allows controlled protein translation predominantly at the site of injection to prevent potentially detrimental leakage and expression in major organs. Our study revealed the potential of the SMRTs platform for controlled expression of mRNA payload delivered intramuscularly. To conclude, our SMRTs platform for LNP-encapsulated modRNA can provide safe, stable, efficient and targeted gene expression at the site of injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena M Żak
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Keerat Kaur
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Jimeen Yoo
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Ann Anu Kurian
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Matthew Adjmi
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Gayatri Mainkar
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Seonghun Yoon
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Lior Zangi
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
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50
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Parry PI, Lefringhausen A, Turni C, Neil CJ, Cosford R, Hudson NJ, Gillespie J. 'Spikeopathy': COVID-19 Spike Protein Is Pathogenic, from Both Virus and Vaccine mRNA. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2287. [PMID: 37626783 PMCID: PMC10452662 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11082287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused much illness, many deaths, and profound disruption to society. The production of 'safe and effective' vaccines was a key public health target. Sadly, unprecedented high rates of adverse events have overshadowed the benefits. This two-part narrative review presents evidence for the widespread harms of novel product COVID-19 mRNA and adenovectorDNA vaccines and is novel in attempting to provide a thorough overview of harms arising from the new technology in vaccines that relied on human cells producing a foreign antigen that has evidence of pathogenicity. This first paper explores peer-reviewed data counter to the 'safe and effective' narrative attached to these new technologies. Spike protein pathogenicity, termed 'spikeopathy', whether from the SARS-CoV-2 virus or produced by vaccine gene codes, akin to a 'synthetic virus', is increasingly understood in terms of molecular biology and pathophysiology. Pharmacokinetic transfection through body tissues distant from the injection site by lipid-nanoparticles or viral-vector carriers means that 'spikeopathy' can affect many organs. The inflammatory properties of the nanoparticles used to ferry mRNA; N1-methylpseudouridine employed to prolong synthetic mRNA function; the widespread biodistribution of the mRNA and DNA codes and translated spike proteins, and autoimmunity via human production of foreign proteins, contribute to harmful effects. This paper reviews autoimmune, cardiovascular, neurological, potential oncological effects, and autopsy evidence for spikeopathy. With many gene-based therapeutic technologies planned, a re-evaluation is necessary and timely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter I. Parry
- Children’s Health Research Clinical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Astrid Lefringhausen
- Children’s Health Defence (Australia Chapter), Huskisson, NSW 2540, Australia; (A.L.); (R.C.); (J.G.)
| | - Conny Turni
- Microbiology Research, QAAFI (Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation), The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia;
| | - Christopher J. Neil
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia;
| | - Robyn Cosford
- Children’s Health Defence (Australia Chapter), Huskisson, NSW 2540, Australia; (A.L.); (R.C.); (J.G.)
| | - Nicholas J. Hudson
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia;
| | - Julian Gillespie
- Children’s Health Defence (Australia Chapter), Huskisson, NSW 2540, Australia; (A.L.); (R.C.); (J.G.)
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