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Gabbianelli R, Shahar E, de Simone G, Rucci C, Bordoni L, Feliziani G, Zhao F, Ferrati M, Maggi F, Spinozzi E, Mahajna J. Plant-Derived Epi-Nutraceuticals as Potential Broad-Spectrum Anti-Viral Agents. Nutrients 2023; 15:4719. [PMID: 38004113 PMCID: PMC10675658 DOI: 10.3390/nu15224719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the COVID-19 pandemic appears to be diminishing, the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants represents a threat to humans due to their inherent transmissibility, immunological evasion, virulence, and invulnerability to existing therapies. The COVID-19 pandemic affected more than 500 million people and caused over 6 million deaths. Vaccines are essential, but in circumstances in which vaccination is not accessible or in individuals with compromised immune systems, drugs can provide additional protection. Targeting host signaling pathways is recommended due to their genomic stability and resistance barriers. Moreover, targeting host factors allows us to develop compounds that are effective against different viral variants as well as against newly emerging virus strains. In recent years, the globe has experienced climate change, which may contribute to the emergence and spread of infectious diseases through a variety of factors. Warmer temperatures and changing precipitation patterns can increase the geographic range of disease-carrying vectors, increasing the risk of diseases spreading to new areas. Climate change may also affect vector behavior, leading to a longer breeding season and more breeding sites for disease vectors. Climate change may also disrupt ecosystems, bringing humans closer to wildlife that transmits zoonotic diseases. All the above factors may accelerate the emergence of new viral epidemics. Plant-derived products, which have been used in traditional medicine for treating pathological conditions, offer structurally novel therapeutic compounds, including those with anti-viral activity. In addition, plant-derived bioactive substances might serve as the ideal basis for developing sustainable/efficient/cost-effective anti-viral alternatives. Interest in herbal antiviral products has increased. More than 50% of approved drugs originate from herbal sources. Plant-derived compounds offer diverse structures and bioactive molecules that are candidates for new drug development. Combining these therapies with conventional drugs could improve patient outcomes. Epigenetics modifications in the genome can affect gene expression without altering DNA sequences. Host cells can use epigenetic gene regulation as a mechanism to silence incoming viral DNA molecules, while viruses recruit cellular epitranscriptomic (covalent modifications of RNAs) modifiers to increase the translational efficiency and transcript stability of viral transcripts to enhance viral gene expression and replication. Moreover, viruses manipulate host cells' epigenetic machinery to ensure productive viral infections. Environmental factors, such as natural products, may influence epigenetic modifications. In this review, we explore the potential of plant-derived substances as epigenetic modifiers for broad-spectrum anti-viral activity, reviewing their modulation processes and anti-viral effects on DNA and RNA viruses, as well as addressing future research objectives in this rapidly emerging field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosita Gabbianelli
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Nutrigenomics, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (R.G.); (G.d.S.); (L.B.); (G.F.); (F.Z.)
| | - Ehud Shahar
- Department of Nutrition and Natural Products, Migal—Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel;
- Department of Biotechnology, Tel-Hai College, Kiryat Shmona 1220800, Israel
| | - Gaia de Simone
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Nutrigenomics, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (R.G.); (G.d.S.); (L.B.); (G.F.); (F.Z.)
| | - Chiara Rucci
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Nutrigenomics, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (R.G.); (G.d.S.); (L.B.); (G.F.); (F.Z.)
| | - Laura Bordoni
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Nutrigenomics, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (R.G.); (G.d.S.); (L.B.); (G.F.); (F.Z.)
| | - Giulia Feliziani
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Nutrigenomics, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (R.G.); (G.d.S.); (L.B.); (G.F.); (F.Z.)
| | - Fanrui Zhao
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Nutrigenomics, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (R.G.); (G.d.S.); (L.B.); (G.F.); (F.Z.)
| | - Marta Ferrati
- Chemistry Interdisciplinary Project (ChIP) Research Centre, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.F.); (F.M.); (E.S.)
| | - Filippo Maggi
- Chemistry Interdisciplinary Project (ChIP) Research Centre, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.F.); (F.M.); (E.S.)
| | - Eleonora Spinozzi
- Chemistry Interdisciplinary Project (ChIP) Research Centre, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.F.); (F.M.); (E.S.)
| | - Jamal Mahajna
- Department of Nutrition and Natural Products, Migal—Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel;
- Department of Biotechnology, Tel-Hai College, Kiryat Shmona 1220800, Israel
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Gupta MK, Peng H, Li Y, Xu CJ. The role of DNA methylation in personalized medicine for immune-related diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 250:108508. [PMID: 37567513 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108508] [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: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics functions as a bridge between host genetic & environmental factors, aiding in human health and diseases. Many immune-related diseases, including infectious and allergic diseases, have been linked to epigenetic mechanisms, particularly DNA methylation. In this review, we summarized an updated overview of DNA methylation and its importance in personalized medicine, and demonstrated that DNA methylation has excellent potential for disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment in a personalized manner. The future implications and limitations of the DNA methylation study have also been well-discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Kumar Gupta
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany; TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany
| | - He Peng
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany; TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany
| | - Yang Li
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany; TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Institute for Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Cheng-Jian Xu
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), a joint venture between the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) and the Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany; TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a joint venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Institute for Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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3
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Luo H, Chen J, Jiang Q, Yu Y, Yang M, Luo Y, Wang X. Comprehensive DNA methylation profiling of COVID-19 and hepatocellular carcinoma to identify common pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:100. [PMID: 37309005 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01515-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection can be more complex and severe in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as compared to other cancers. This is due to several factors, including pre-existing conditions such as viral hepatitis and cirrhosis, which are commonly associated with HCC. METHODS We conducted an analysis of epigenomics in SARS-CoV-2 infection and HCC patients, and identified common pathogenic mechanisms using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and other analyses. Hub genes were identified and analyzed using LASSO regression. Additionally, drug candidates and their binding modes to key macromolecular targets of COVID-19 were identified using molecular docking. RESULTS The epigenomic analysis of the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and HCC patients revealed that the co-pathogenesis was closely linked to immune response, particularly T cell differentiation, regulation of T cell activation and monocyte differentiation. Further analysis indicated that CD4+ T cells and monocytes play essential roles in the immunoreaction triggered by both conditions. The expression levels of hub genes MYLK2, FAM83D, STC2, CCDC112, EPHX4 and MMP1 were strongly correlated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and the prognosis of HCC patients. In our study, mefloquine and thioridazine were identified as potential therapeutic agents for COVID-19 in combined with HCC. CONCLUSIONS In this research, we conducted an epigenomics analysis to identify common pathogenetic processes between SARS-CoV-2 infection and HCC patients, providing new insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of HCC patients infected with SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiyan Luo
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Lingnan Medical Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jixin Chen
- The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiyin Jiang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yifan Yu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Miaolun Yang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuehua Luo
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiongwen Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
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Low RN, Low RJ, Akrami A. A review of cytokine-based pathophysiology of Long COVID symptoms. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1011936. [PMID: 37064029 PMCID: PMC10103649 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1011936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The Long COVID/Post Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) group includes patients with initial mild-to-moderate symptoms during the acute phase of the illness, in whom recovery is prolonged, or new symptoms are developed over months. Here, we propose a description of the pathophysiology of the Long COVID presentation based on inflammatory cytokine cascades and the p38 MAP kinase signaling pathways that regulate cytokine production. In this model, the SARS-CoV-2 viral infection is hypothesized to trigger a dysregulated peripheral immune system activation with subsequent cytokine release. Chronic low-grade inflammation leads to dysregulated brain microglia with an exaggerated release of central cytokines, producing neuroinflammation. Immunothrombosis linked to chronic inflammation with microclot formation leads to decreased tissue perfusion and ischemia. Intermittent fatigue, Post Exertional Malaise (PEM), CNS symptoms with "brain fog," arthralgias, paresthesias, dysautonomia, and GI and ophthalmic problems can consequently arise as result of the elevated peripheral and central cytokines. There are abundant similarities between symptoms in Long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). DNA polymorphisms and viral-induced epigenetic changes to cytokine gene expression may lead to chronic inflammation in Long COVID patients, predisposing some to develop autoimmunity, which may be the gateway to ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryan J. Low
- Gatsby Computational Neuroscience Unit, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Sainsbury Wellcome Centre, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Athena Akrami
- Sainsbury Wellcome Centre, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Behura A, Naik L, Patel S, Das M, Kumar A, Mishra A, Nayak DK, Manna D, Mishra A, Dhiman R. Involvement of epigenetics in affecting host immunity during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166634. [PMID: 36577469 PMCID: PMC9790847 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is caused by a highly contagious RNA virus Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), originated in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. Since then, it has become a global public health concern and leads the disease table with the highest mortality rate, highlighting the necessity for a thorough understanding of its biological properties. The intricate interaction between the virus and the host immune system gives rise to diverse implications of COVID-19. RNA viruses are known to hijack the host epigenetic mechanisms of immune cells to regulate antiviral defence. Epigenetics involves processes that alter gene expression without changing the DNA sequence, leading to heritable phenotypic changes. The epigenetic landscape consists of reversible modifications like chromatin remodelling, DNA/RNA methylation, and histone methylation/acetylation that regulates gene expression. The epigenetic machinery contributes to many aspects of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis, like global DNA methylation and receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) methylation determines the viral entry inside the host, viral replication, and infection efficiency. Further, it is also reported to epigenetically regulate the expression of different host cytokines affecting antiviral response. The viral proteins of SARS-CoV-2 interact with various host epigenetic enzymes like histone deacetylases (HDACs) and bromodomain-containing proteins to antagonize cellular signalling. The central role of epigenetic factors in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis is now exploited as promising biomarkers and therapeutic targets against COVID-19. This review article highlights the ability of SARS-CoV-2 in regulating the host epigenetic landscape during infection leading to immune evasion. It also discusses the ongoing therapeutic approaches to curtail and control the viral outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assirbad Behura
- Laboratory of Mycobacterial Immunology, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Lincoln Naik
- Laboratory of Mycobacterial Immunology, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Salina Patel
- Laboratory of Mycobacterial Immunology, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Mousumi Das
- Laboratory of Mycobacterial Immunology, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Ashish Kumar
- Laboratory of Mycobacterial Immunology, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Abtar Mishra
- Laboratory of Mycobacterial Immunology, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Dev Kiran Nayak
- Laboratory of Mycobacterial Immunology, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Debraj Manna
- Laboratory of Mycobacterial Immunology, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India
| | - Amit Mishra
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342011, India
| | - Rohan Dhiman
- Laboratory of Mycobacterial Immunology, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India.
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Epigenetic Targets and Pathways Linked to SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Pathology. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020341. [PMID: 36838306 PMCID: PMC9967649 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The scale at which the SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 pandemic has spread remains enormous. Provided the genetic makeup of the virus and humans is readily available, the quest for knowing the mechanism and epidemiology continues to prevail across the entire scientific community. Several aspects, including immunology, molecular biology, and host-pathogen interaction, are continuously being dug into for preparing the human race for future pandemics. The exact reasons for vast differences in symptoms, pathophysiological implications of COVID-infections, and mortality differences remain elusive. Hence, researchers are also looking beyond traditional genomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics approach, especially entrusting the environmental regulation of the genetic landscape of COVID-human interactions. In line with these questions lies a critical process called epigenetics. The epigenetic perturbations in both host and parasites are a matter of great interest to unravel the disparities in COVID-19 mortalities and pathology. This review provides a deeper insight into current research on the epigenetic landscape of SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans and potential targets for augmenting the ongoing investigation. It also explores the potential targets, pathways, and networks associated with the epigenetic regulation of processes involved in SARS-CoV-2 pathology.
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7
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Oliveira LDAR, da Silva ACG, Thomaz DV, Brandão F, da Conceição EC, Valadares MC, Bara MTF, Silveira D. The Potential of Vouacapanes from Pterodon emarginatus Vogel Against COVID-19 Cytokine Storm. Adv Pharm Bull 2023; 13:150-159. [PMID: 36721819 PMCID: PMC9871284 DOI: 10.34172/apb.2023.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the search for potential therapeutic responses for various aspects of this disease. Fruits of Pterodon emarginatus Vogel (Fabaceae), sucupira, have been used in Brazilian traditional medicine because of their anti-inflammatory properties, which have been proven in vivo, in vitro, and in silico. Therefore, the aim of this work is to evaluate P. emarginatus oleoresin and isolated diterpenes by in vitro anti-inflammatory models. Methods: In this study, the mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory activity of P. emarginatus oleoresin and vouacapanes 6α,19β-diacetoxy-7β,14β-dihydroxyvouacapan (V1), 6α-acetoxy-7β,14β-dihydroxyvouacapan (V2), and methyl 6α-acetoxy-7β-hydroxyvouacapan-17β-oate (V3) were investigated in HaCaT cells. Results: Oleoresin, V2, and V3 inhibited phospholipase A2 (30.78%, 24.96%, and 77.64%, respectively). Both vouacapanes also inhibited the expression of COX-2 (28.3% and 33.17%, respectively). The production of interleukin 6 (IL-6) was inhibited by oleoresin by 35.47%. However, oleoresin did not interfere with Nrf-2 expression or IL-8 production. Conclusion: The results support the ethnomedicinal use of P. emarginatus oleoresin as an anti-inflammatory herbal medicine, and also highlight P. emarginatus oleoresin and isolated vouacapanes as an attractive therapeutic approach for COVID-19 through the reduction or chronological control of the inflammatory mediators IL-6, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), phospholipase A2, and INF-y (indirectly) during the SARS-CoV-2 infection process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandra de Almeida Ribeiro Oliveira
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás, P.O. Box 131, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, Asa Norte, 70910-000, DF, Brazil
| | | | | | - Fabiana Brandão
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, Asa Norte, 70910-000, DF, Brazil
| | | | | | - Maria Tereza Freitas Bara
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás, P.O. Box 131, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.,Corresponding Authors: Dâmaris Silveira and Maria Teresa Freitas Bara, and
| | - Dâmaris Silveira
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, Asa Norte, 70910-000, DF, Brazil.,Corresponding Authors: Dâmaris Silveira and Maria Teresa Freitas Bara, and
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Rabaan AA, Mutair AA, Aljeldah M, Shammari BRA, Sulaiman T, Alshukairi AN, Alfaresi M, Al-Jishi JM, Al Bati NA, Al-Mozaini MA, Bshabshe AA, Almatouq JA, Abuzaid AA, Alfaraj AH, Al-Adsani W, Alabdullah M, Alwarthan S, Alsalman F, Alwashmi ASS, Alhumaid S. Genetic Variants and Protective Immunity against SARS-CoV-2. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13122355. [PMID: 36553622 PMCID: PMC9778397 DOI: 10.3390/genes13122355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The novel coronavirus-19 (SARS-CoV-2), has infected numerous individuals worldwide, resulting in millions of fatalities. The pandemic spread with high mortality rates in multiple waves, leaving others with moderate to severe symptoms. Co-morbidity variables, including hypertension, diabetes, and immunosuppression, have exacerbated the severity of COVID-19. In addition, numerous efforts have been made to comprehend the pathogenic and host variables that contribute to COVID-19 susceptibility and pathogenesis. One of these endeavours is understanding the host genetic factors predisposing an individual to COVID-19. Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) have demonstrated the host predisposition factors in different populations. These factors are involved in the appropriate immune response, their imbalance influences susceptibility or resistance to viral infection. This review investigated the host genetic components implicated at the various stages of viral pathogenesis, including viral entry, pathophysiological alterations, and immunological responses. In addition, the recent and most updated genetic variations associated with multiple host factors affecting COVID-19 pathogenesis are described in the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A. Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran 31311, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Public Health and Nutrition, The University of Haripur, Haripur 22610, Pakistan
- Correspondence:
| | - Abbas Al Mutair
- Research Center, Almoosa Specialist Hospital, Al-Ahsa 36342, Saudi Arabia
- College of Nursing, Princess Norah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia
- School of Nursing, Wollongong University, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
- Nursing Department, Prince Sultan Military College of Health Sciences, Dhahran 33048, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Aljeldah
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Hafr Al Batin, Hafr Al Batin 39831, Saudi Arabia
| | - Basim R. Al Shammari
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Hafr Al Batin, Hafr Al Batin 39831, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tarek Sulaiman
- Infectious Diseases Section, Medical Specialties Department, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh 12231, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abeer N. Alshukairi
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah 21499, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mubarak Alfaresi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Sheikh Khalifa General Hospital, Umm Al Quwain 499, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jumana M. Al-Jishi
- Internal Medicine Department, Qatif Central Hospital, Qatif 35342, Saudi Arabia
| | - Neda A. Al Bati
- Medical and Clinical Affairs, Rural Health Network, Eastern Health Cluster, Dammam 31444, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maha A. Al-Mozaini
- Immunocompromised Host Research Section, Department of Infection and Immunity, King Faisal, Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Al Bshabshe
- Adult Critical Care Department of Medicine, Division of Adult Critical Care, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha 62561, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jenan A. Almatouq
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Mohammed Al-Mana College of Health Sciences, Dammam 34222, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulmonem A. Abuzaid
- Medical Microbiology Department, Security Forces Hospital Programme, Dammam 32314, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal H. Alfaraj
- Pediatric Department, Abqaiq General Hospital, First Eastern Health Cluster, Abqaiq 33261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wasl Al-Adsani
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Hospital, Kuwait City 63537, Kuwait
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hampton Veterans Administration Medical Center, Hampton, VA 23667, USA
| | - Mohammed Alabdullah
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Almoosa Specialist Hospital, Al Mubarraz 36342, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sara Alwarthan
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 34212, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatimah Alsalman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Oyun City Hospital, Al-Ahsa 36312, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ameen S. S. Alwashmi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saad Alhumaid
- Administration of Pharmaceutical Care, Al-Ahsa Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
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Morselli M, Farrell C, Montoya D, Gören T, Sabırlı R, Türkçüer İ, Kurt Ö, Köseler A, Pellegrini M. DNA methylation profiles in pneumonia patients reflect changes in cell types and pneumonia severity. Epigenetics 2022; 17:1646-1660. [PMID: 35311624 PMCID: PMC9621067 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2022.2051862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune cell-type composition changes with age, potentially weakening the response to infectious diseases. Profiling epigenetics marks of immune cells can help us understand the relationship with disease severity. We therefore leveraged a targeted DNA methylation method to study the differences in a cohort of pneumonia patients (both COVID-19 positive and negative) and unaffected individuals from peripheral blood.This approach allowed us to predict the pneumonia diagnosis with high accuracy (AUC = 0.92), and the PCR positivity to the SARS-CoV-2 viral genome with moderate, albeit lower, accuracy (AUC = 0.77). We were also able to predict the severity of pneumonia (PORT score) with an R2 = 0.69. By estimating immune cellular frequency from DNA methylation data, patients under the age of 65 positive to the SARS-CoV-2 genome (as revealed by PCR) showed an increase in T cells, and specifically in CD8+ cells, compared to the negative control group. Conversely, we observed a decreased frequency of neutrophils in the positive compared to the negative group. No significant difference was found in patients over the age of 65. The results suggest that this DNA methylation-based approach can be used as a cost-effective and clinically useful biomarker platform for predicting pneumonias and their severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Morselli
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, Institute for Genomics and Proteomics; University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- CONTACT Marco Morselli Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, Institute for Genomics and Proteomics, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Colin Farrell
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Dennis Montoya
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Tarık Gören
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Pamukkale University Faculty of Medicine, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Ramazan Sabırlı
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Bakircay University School of Medicine, Cigli Training and Research Hospital, İzmir, Turkey
| | - İbrahim Türkçüer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Pamukkale University Faculty of Medicine, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Özgür Kurt
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Aylin Köseler
- Department of Biophysics, Pamukkale University Faculty of Medicine, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Matteo Pellegrini
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, Institute for Genomics and Proteomics; University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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10
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Chen N, Zhang B, Deng L, Liang B, Ping J. Virus-host interaction networks as new antiviral drug targets for IAV and SARS-CoV-2. Emerg Microbes Infect 2022; 11:1371-1389. [PMID: 35476817 PMCID: PMC9132403 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2022.2071175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Currently, SARS-CoV-2, especially the Omicron strain, is ravaging the world and even co-infecting human beings with IAV, which is a serious threat to human public health. As of yet, no specific antiviral drug has been discovered for SARS-CoV-2. This requires deeper understandings of the molecular mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2-host interaction, to explore antiviral drug targets and provide theoretical basis for developing anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs. This article discussed IAV, which has been comprehensively studied and is expected to provide the most important reference value for the SARS-CoV-2 study apart from members of the Coronaviridae family. We wish to establish a theoretical system for the studies on virus-host interaction. Previous studies have shown that host PRRs recognize RNAs of IAV or SARS-CoV-2 and then activate innate immune signaling pathways to induce the expression of host restriction factors, such as ISGs, to ultimately inhibit viral replication. Meanwhile, viruses have also evolved various regulatory mechanisms to antagonize host innate immunity at transcriptional, translational, post-translational modification, and epigenetic levels. Besides, viruses can hijack supportive host factors for their replication. Notably, the race between host antiviral innate immunity and viral antagonism of host innate immunity forms virus-host interaction networks. Additionally, the viral replication cycle is co-regulated by proteins, ncRNAs, sugars, lipids, hormones, and inorganic salts. Given this, we updated the mappings of antiviral drug targets based on virus-host interaction networks and proposed an innovative idea that virus-host interaction networks as new antiviral drug targets for IAV and SARS-CoV-2 from the perspectives of viral immunology and systems biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, Engineering Laboratory of Animal Immunity of Jiangsu Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Baoge Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lulu Deng
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, Engineering Laboratory of Animal Immunity of Jiangsu Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Bing Liang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, Engineering Laboratory of Animal Immunity of Jiangsu Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jihui Ping
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, Engineering Laboratory of Animal Immunity of Jiangsu Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
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11
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Foolchand A, Mazaleni S, Ghazi T, Chuturgoon AA. A Review: Highlighting the Links between Epigenetics, COVID-19 Infection, and Vitamin D. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012292. [PMID: 36293144 PMCID: PMC9603374 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The highly transmittable and infectious COVID-19 remains a major threat worldwide, with the elderly and comorbid individuals being the most vulnerable. While vaccines are currently available, therapeutic drugs will help ease the viral outbreak and prevent serious health outcomes. Epigenetic modifications regulate gene expression through changes in chromatin structure and have been linked to viral pathophysiology. Since epigenetic modifications contribute to the life cycle of the virus and host immune responses to infection, epigenetic drugs are promising treatment targets to ameliorate COVID-19. Deficiency of the multifunctional secosteroid hormone vitamin D is a global health threat. Vitamin D and its receptor function to regulate genes involved in immunity, apoptosis, proliferation, differentiation, and inflammation. Amassed evidence also indicates the biological relations of vitamin D with reduced disease risk, while its receptor can be modulated by epigenetic mechanisms. The immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D suggest a role for vitamin D as a COVID-19 therapeutic agent. Therefore, this review highlights the epigenetic effects on COVID-19 and vitamin D while also proposing a role for vitamin D in COVID-19 infections.
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12
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Ji XS, Chen B, Ze B, Zhou WH. Human genetic basis of severe or critical illness in COVID-19. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:963239. [PMID: 36204639 PMCID: PMC9530247 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.963239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has led to considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide. The clinical manifestation of COVID-19 ranges from asymptomatic or mild infection to severe or critical illness, such as respiratory failure, multi-organ dysfunction or even death. Large-scale genetic association studies have indicated that genetic variations affecting SARS-CoV-2 receptors (angiotensin-converting enzymes, transmembrane serine protease-2) and immune components (Interferons, Interleukins, Toll-like receptors and Human leukocyte antigen) are critical host determinants related to the severity of COVID-19. Genetic background, such as 3p21.31 and 9q34.2 loci were also identified to influence outcomes of COVID-19. In this review, we aimed to summarize the current literature focusing on human genetic factors that may contribute to the observed diversified severity of COVID-19. Enhanced understanding of host genetic factors and viral interactions of SARS-CoV-2 could provide scientific bases for personalized preventive measures and precision medicine strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Shan Ji
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, National Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, National Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Chen
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, National Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, National Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Bi Ze
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, National Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, National Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Hao Zhou
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, National Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, National Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai, China
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13
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Patra SK, Szyf M. Epigenetic perspectives of COVID-19: Virus infection to disease progression and therapeutic control. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2022; 1868:166527. [PMID: 36002132 PMCID: PMC9393109 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2022.166527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 has caused numerous deaths as well as imposed social isolation and upheaval world-wide. Although, the genome and the composition of the virus, the entry process and replication mechanisms are well investigated from by several laboratories across the world, there are many unknown remaining questions. For example, what are the functions of membrane lipids during entry, packaging and exit of virus particles? Also, the metabolic aspects of the infected tissue cells are poorly understood. In the course of virus replication and formation of virus particles within the host cell, the enhanced metabolic activities of the host is directly proportional to viral loads. The epigenetic landscape of the host cells is also altered, particularly the expression/repression of genes associated with cellular metabolism as well as cellular processes that are antagonistic to the virus. Metabolic pathways are enzyme driven processes and the expression profile and mechanism of regulations of the respective genes encoding those enzymes during the course of pathogen invasion might be highly informative on the course of the disease. Recently, the metabolic profile of the patients' sera have been analysed from few patients. In view of this, and to gain further insights into the roles that epigenetic mechanisms might play in this scenario in regulation of metabolic pathways during the progression of COVID-19 are discussed and summarised in this contribution for ensuring best therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir Kumar Patra
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India.
| | - Moshe Szyf
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McIntyre Medical Sciences Building, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
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14
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Chen M, Ma Y, Chang W. SARS-CoV-2 and the Nucleus. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:4731-4743. [PMID: 35874947 PMCID: PMC9305274 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.72482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is caused by an RNA virus, SARS-CoV-2. The genome of SARS-CoV-2 lacks a nuclear phase in its life cycle and is replicated in the cytoplasm. However, interfering with nuclear trafficking using pharmacological inhibitors greatly reduces virus infection and virus replication of other coronaviruses is blocked in enucleated cells, suggesting a critical role of the nucleus in virus infection. Here, we summarize the alternations of nuclear pathways caused by SARS-CoV-2, including nuclear translocation pathways, innate immune responses, mRNA metabolism, epigenetic mechanisms, DNA damage response, cytoskeleton regulation, and nuclear rupture. We consider how these alternations contribute to virus replication and discuss therapeutic treatments that target these pathways, focusing on small molecule drugs that are being used in clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqi Chen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Yue Ma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Wakam Chang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
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15
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Behrouj H, Vakili O, Sadeghdoust A, Aligolighasemabadi N, Khalili P, Zamani M, Mokarram P. Epigenetic regulation of autophagy in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Biochem Biophys Rep 2022; 30:101264. [PMID: 35469237 PMCID: PMC9021360 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2022.101264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has become the most serious global public health issue in the past two years, requiring effective therapeutic strategies. This viral infection is a contagious disease caused by new coronaviruses (nCoVs), also called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Autophagy, as a highly conserved catabolic recycling process, plays a significant role in the growth and replication of coronaviruses (CoVs). Therefore, there is great interest in understanding the mechanisms that underlie autophagy modulation. The modulation of autophagy is a very complex and multifactorial process, which includes different epigenetic alterations, such as histone modifications and DNA methylation. These mechanisms are also known to be involved in SARS-CoV-2 replication. Thus, molecular understanding of the epigenetic pathways linked with autophagy and COVID-19, could provide novel therapeutic targets for COVID-19 eradication. In this context, the current review highlights the role of epigenetic regulation of autophagy in controlling COVID-19, focusing on the potential therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Behrouj
- Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran
| | - Omid Vakili
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Adel Sadeghdoust
- Health Policy Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Neda Aligolighasemabadi
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Parnian Khalili
- Autophagy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mozhdeh Zamani
- Autophagy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Pooneh Mokarram
- Autophagy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
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16
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Swati, Rishi P, Chadha VD. Understanding the Epigenetic Mechanisms in SARS CoV-2 Infection and Potential Therapeutic Approaches. Virus Res 2022; 318:198853. [PMID: 35777502 PMCID: PMC9236910 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2022.198853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic caused by the Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS- CoV-2) has inflicted a global health challenge. Although the overwhelming escalation of mortality seen during the initial phase of the pandemic has reduced, emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 continue to impact communities worldwide. Several studies have highlighted the association of gene specific epigenetic modifications in host cells with the pathogenesis and severity of the disease. Therefore, alongside the investigations into the virology and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection, understanding the epigenetic mechanisms related to the disease is crucial for the rational design of effective targeted therapies. Here, we discuss the interaction of SARS-CoV-2 with the various epigenetic regulators and their subsequent contribution to the risk of disease severity and dysfunctional immune responses. Finally, we also highlight the use of epigenetically targeted drugs for the potential therapeutic interventions capable of eliminating viral infection and/or build effective immunity against it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati
- Center for Nuclear Medicine (U.I.E.A.S.T), South Campus, Panjab University, Sector 25, Chandigarh, India-160014.
| | - Praveen Rishi
- Department of Microbiology, South Campus, Panjab University, Sector 25, Chandigarh, India-160014.
| | - Vijayta D Chadha
- Center for Nuclear Medicine (U.I.E.A.S.T), South Campus, Panjab University, Sector 25, Chandigarh, India-160014.
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17
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Bohlin J, Page CM, Lee Y, Pettersson JHO, Jugessur A, Magnus P, Håberg SE. Age and sex effects on DNA methylation sites linked to genes implicated in severe COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 host cell entry. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269105. [PMID: 35679253 PMCID: PMC9182232 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Male sex and advanced age are associated with severe symptoms of COVID-19. Sex and age also exhibit substantial associations with genome-wide DNA methylation (DNAm) differences in humans. Using a random sample of Illumina EPIC-based genome-wide methylomes from peripheral whole blood of 1,976 parents, participating in The Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa), we explored whether DNAm in genes linked to SARS-CoV-2 host cell entry and to severe COVID-19 were associated with sex and age. This was carried out by testing 1,572 DNAm sites (CpGs) located near 45 genes for associations with age and sex. We found that DNAm in 281 and 231 of 1,572 CpGs were associated (pFDR<0.01) with sex and aging, respectively. CpGs linked to SARS-CoV-2 host cell entry genes were all associated with age and sex, except for the ACE2 receptor gene (located on the X-chromosome), which was only associated with sex (pFDR<0.01). Furthermore, we examined whether 1,487 autosomal CpGs associated with host-cell entry and severe COVID-19 were more or less associated with sex and age than what would be expected from the same number of randomly sampled genome-wide CpGs. We found that the CpGs associated with host-cell entry and severe COVID-19 were not more or less associated with sex (R2 = 0.77, p = 0.09) than the CpGs sampled from random genomic regions; age was actually found to be significantly less so (R2 = 0.36, p = 0.04). Hence, while we found wide-spread associations between sex and age at CpGs linked to genes implicated with SARS-CoV-2 host cell entry and severe COVID-19, the effect from the sum of these CpGs was not stronger than that from randomly sampled CpGs; for age it was significantly less so. These findings could suggest that advanced age and male sex may not be unsurmountable barriers for the SARS-CoV-2 virus to evolve increased infectiousness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Bohlin
- Department of Method Development and analytics, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Center for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- * E-mail:
| | - Christian M. Page
- Center for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Mathematics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Yunsung Lee
- Center for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - John H.-O. Pettersson
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Life and Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, the University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Astanand Jugessur
- Center for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Per Magnus
- Center for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Siri E. Håberg
- Center for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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18
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Li F, Boon ACM, Michelson AP, Foraker RE, Zhan M, Payne PRO. Estrogen hormone is an essential sex factor inhibiting inflammation and immune response in COVID-19. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9462. [PMID: 35676404 PMCID: PMC9175532 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13585-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Although vaccines have been evaluated and approved for SARS-CoV-2 infection prevention, there remains a lack of effective treatments to reduce the mortality of COVID-19 patients already infected with SARS-CoV-2. The global data on COVID-19 showed that men have a higher mortality rate than women. We further observed that the proportion of mortality of females increases starting from around the age of 55 significantly. Thus, sex is an essential factor associated with COVID-19 mortality, and sex related genetic factors could be interesting mechanisms and targets for COVID-19 treatment. However, the associated sex factors and signaling pathways remain unclear. Here, we propose to uncover the potential sex associated factors using systematic and integrative network analysis. The unique results indicated that estrogens, e.g., estrone and estriol, (1) interacting with ESR1/2 receptors, (2) can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 caused inflammation and immune response signaling in host cells; and (3) estrogens are associated with the distinct fatality rates between male and female COVID-19 patients. Specifically, a high level of estradiol protects young female COVID-19 patients, and estrogens drop to an extremely low level in females after about 55 years of age causing the increased fatality rate of women. In conclusion, estrogen, interacting with ESR1/2 receptors, is an essential sex factor that protects COVID-19 patients from death by inhibiting inflammation and immune response caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Moreover, medications boosting the down-stream signaling of ESR1/ESR2, or inhibiting the inflammation and immune-associated targets on the signaling network can be potentially effective or synergistic combined with other existing drugs for COVID-19 treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuhai Li
- Institute for Informatics (I2), Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Adrianus C M Boon
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Pathology & Immunology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Andrew P Michelson
- Institute for Informatics (I2), Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Randi E Foraker
- Institute for Informatics (I2), Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ming Zhan
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Philip R O Payne
- Institute for Informatics (I2), Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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19
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Dumache R, Enache A, Macasoi I, Dehelean CA, Dumitrascu V, Mihailescu A, Popescu R, Vlad D, Vlad CS, Muresan C. SARS-CoV-2: An Overview of the Genetic Profile and Vaccine Effectiveness of the Five Variants of Concern. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11050516. [PMID: 35631037 PMCID: PMC9144800 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11050516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, enormous efforts have been made to understand the genus SARS-CoV-2. Due to the high rate of global transmission, mutations in the viral genome were inevitable. A full understanding of the viral genome and its possible changes represents one of the crucial aspects of pandemic management. Structural protein S plays an important role in the pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2, mutations occurring at this level leading to viral forms with increased affinity for ACE2 receptors, higher transmissibility and infectivity, resistance to neutralizing antibodies and immune escape, increasing the risk of infection and disease severity. Thus, five variants of concern are currently being discussed, Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta and Omicron. In the present review, a comprehensive summary of the following critical aspects regarding SARS-CoV-2 has been made: (i) the genomic characteristics of SARS-CoV-2; (ii) the pathological mechanism of transmission, penetration into the cell and action on specific receptors; (iii) mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 genome; and (iv) possible implications of mutations in diagnosis, treatment, and vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raluca Dumache
- Ethics and Human Identification Research Center, Department of Neurosciences, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.D.); (A.E.); (A.M.); (C.M.)
| | - Alexandra Enache
- Ethics and Human Identification Research Center, Department of Neurosciences, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.D.); (A.E.); (A.M.); (C.M.)
| | - Ioana Macasoi
- Departament of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.M.); (C.A.D.)
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Departament of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.M.); (C.A.D.)
| | - Victor Dumitrascu
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Discipline of Pharmacology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (V.D.); (D.V.); (C.S.V.)
| | - Alexandra Mihailescu
- Ethics and Human Identification Research Center, Department of Neurosciences, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.D.); (A.E.); (A.M.); (C.M.)
- Genetics, Genomic Medicine Research Center, Department of Microscopic Morphology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Popescu
- Department of Microscopic Morphology, Discipline of Molecular and Cell Biology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Daliborca Vlad
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Discipline of Pharmacology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (V.D.); (D.V.); (C.S.V.)
| | - Cristian Sebastian Vlad
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Discipline of Pharmacology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (V.D.); (D.V.); (C.S.V.)
| | - Camelia Muresan
- Ethics and Human Identification Research Center, Department of Neurosciences, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.D.); (A.E.); (A.M.); (C.M.)
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20
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Braga CL, Acquarone M, Arona VDC, Osório BS, Barreto TG, Kian RM, Pereira JPAL, Silva MDMCD, Silva BA, de Oliveira GMM, Macedo Rocco PR, Silva PL, Alencar AKN. Can Epigenetics Help Solve the Puzzle Between Concomitant Cardiovascular Injury and Severity of Coronavirus Disease 2019? J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2022; 79:431-443. [PMID: 34935698 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000001201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has significant implications in patients with concomitant cardiovascular disease (CVD) because they are the population at the greatest risk of death. The treatment of such patients and complications may represent a new challenge for the fields of cardiology and pharmacology. Thus, understanding the involvement of this viral infection in CVD might help to reduce the aggressiveness of SARS-CoV-2 in causing multiorgan infection and damage. SARS-CoV-2 disturbs the host epigenome and several epigenetic processes involved in the pathophysiology of COVID-19 that can directly affect the function and structure of the cardiovascular system (CVS). Hence, it would be relevant to identify epigenetic alterations that directly impact CVS physiology after SARS-CoV-2 infection. This could contribute to the view of this virus-induced CVS injury and direct forthcoming tackles for COVID-19 treatment to reduce mortality in patients with CVD. Targeting epigenetic marks could offer strong evidence for the development of novel antiviral therapies, especially in the context of COVID-19-related CVS damage. In this review, we address some of the main signaling pathways that are currently known as being involved in COVID-19 pathophysiology and the importance of this glint on epigenetics and some of its modifiers (epidrugs) to control the unregulated epitope activity in the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection, COVID-19, and underlying CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cássia L Braga
- Laboratório de Investigação Pulmonar, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mariana Acquarone
- Faculdade de Medicina de Petrópolis, School Clinic, Petrópolis, Brazil
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Victor da C Arona
- Faculdade de Medicina de Petrópolis, School Clinic, Petrópolis, Brazil
| | - Brenno S Osório
- Faculdade de Medicina de Petrópolis, School Clinic, Petrópolis, Brazil
| | - Thiago G Barreto
- Faculdade de Medicina de Petrópolis, School Clinic, Petrópolis, Brazil
| | - Ruan M Kian
- Faculdade de Medicina de Petrópolis, School Clinic, Petrópolis, Brazil
| | | | - Marina de Moraes C da Silva
- Serviço de Radiologia do Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bagnólia A Silva
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Produtos Naturais e Sintéticos Bioativos, Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Gláucia Maria M de Oliveira
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and
| | - Patricia Rieken Macedo Rocco
- Laboratório de Investigação Pulmonar, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Pedro Leme Silva
- Laboratório de Investigação Pulmonar, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Allan K N Alencar
- Laboratório de Investigação Pulmonar, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Faculdade de Medicina de Petrópolis, School Clinic, Petrópolis, Brazil
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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21
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Sixto-López Y, Correa-Basurto J. HDAC inhibition as neuroprotection in COVID-19 infection. Curr Top Med Chem 2022; 22:1369-1378. [PMID: 35240959 DOI: 10.2174/1568026622666220303113445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 virus is responsible of COVID-19 affecting millions of humans around the world. COVID-19 shows diverse clinical symptoms (fever, cough, fatigue, diarrhea, body aches, headaches, anosmia and hyposmia). Approximately 30% of the patients with COVID-19 showed neurological symptoms, these going from mild to severe manifestations including headache, dizziness, impaired consciousness, encephalopathy, anosmia, hypogeusia, hyposmia, psychology and psychiatry among others. The neurotropism of SARS-CoV-2 virus explains its neuroinvasion provoking neurological damage as acute demyelination, neuroinflammation etc. At molecular level, the COVID-19 patients had higher levels of cytokines and chemokines known as cytokines storms which disrupt the blood brain barrier allowing the entrance of monocytes and lymphocytes causing neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration and demyelination. In addition, ischemic, hemorrhagic strokes, seizures and encephalopathy have been observed due to the proinflammatory cytokines. In this sense, to avoid or decrease neurological damage due to SARS-CoV-2 infection, an early neuroprotective management should be adopted. Several approaches can be used; one of them includes the use of HDAC inhibitors (HDACi) due to their neuroprotective effects. Also, the HDACi down regulates the pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF- decreasing the neurotoxicity. HDACi can also avoid and prevent the entrance of the virus into the Central nervous System (CNS) as well as decrease the virus replication by downregulating the virus receptors. Here we review the mechanisms that could explain how the SARS-CoV-2 virus could reach the CNS, induce the neurological damage and symptoms, as well as the possibility to use HDACi as neuroprotective therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudibeth Sixto-López
- Laboratorio de Diseño y Desarrollo de Nuevos Fármacos e Innovación Biotecnológica (Laboratory for the Design and Development of New Drugs and Biotechnological Innovation), Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México. Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón S/N, Casco de Santo Tomas, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - José Correa-Basurto
- Laboratorio de Diseño y Desarrollo de Nuevos Fármacos e Innovación Biotecnológica (Laboratory for the Design and Development of New Drugs and Biotechnological Innovation), Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México. Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón S/N, Casco de Santo Tomas, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City, Mexico
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22
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Significance of Immune Status of SARS-CoV-2 Infected Patients in Determining the Efficacy of Therapeutic Interventions. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12030349. [PMID: 35330349 PMCID: PMC8955701 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12030349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is now being investigated for its distinctive patterns in the course of disease development which can be indicated with miscellaneous immune responses in infected individuals. Besides this series of investigations on the pathophysiology of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), significant fundamental immunological and physiological processes are indispensable to address clinical markers of COVID-19 disease and essential to identify or design effective therapeutics. Recent developments in the literature suggest that deficiency of type I interferon (IFN) in serum samples can be used to represent a severe progression of COVID-19 disease and can be used as the basis to develop combined immunotherapeutic strategies. Precise control over inflammatory response is a significant aspect of targeting viral infections. This account presents a brief review of the pathophysiological characteristics of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the understanding of the immune status of infected patients. We further discuss the immune system’s interaction with the SARS-CoV-2 virus and their subsequent involvement of dysfunctional immune responses during the progression of the disease. Finally, we highlight some of the implications of the different approaches applicable in developing promising therapeutic interventions that redirect immunoregulation and viral infection.
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23
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Muhammad A, Forcados GE, Sani H, Ndidi US, Adamu A, Katsayal BS, Sadiq IZ, Abubakar YS, Sulaiman I, Abubakar IB, Yusuf AP, Malami I, Ibrahim S, Abubakar MB. Epigenetic modifications associated with genes implicated in cytokine storm: The potential biotherapeutic effects of vitamins and minerals in COVID‐19. J Food Biochem 2022; 46:e14079. [DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.14079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aliyu Muhammad
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Nigeria
| | | | - Hadiza Sani
- Department of Medicine Kaduna State University Kaduna Nigeria
| | - Uche Samuel Ndidi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Nigeria
| | - Auwal Adamu
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Nigeria
| | | | - Idris Zubairu Sadiq
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Nigeria
| | | | - Ibrahim Sulaiman
- Department of Human Physiology Federal University Dutse Dutse Nigeria
| | | | | | - Ibrahim Malami
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Ethnopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto Nigeria
| | - Sani Ibrahim
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Nigeria
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24
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Potential long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the pulmonary vasculature: a global perspective. Nat Rev Cardiol 2021; 19:314-331. [PMID: 34873286 PMCID: PMC8647069 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-021-00640-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The lungs are the primary target of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, with severe hypoxia being the cause of death in the most critical cases. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is extremely heterogeneous in terms of severity, clinical phenotype and, importantly, global distribution. Although the majority of affected patients recover from the acute infection, many continue to suffer from late sequelae affecting various organs, including the lungs. The role of the pulmonary vascular system during the acute and chronic stages of COVID-19 has not been adequately studied. A thorough understanding of the origins and dynamic behaviour of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the potential causes of heterogeneity in COVID-19 is essential for anticipating and treating the disease, in both the acute and the chronic stages, including the development of chronic pulmonary hypertension. Both COVID-19 and chronic pulmonary hypertension have assumed global dimensions, with potential complex interactions. In this Review, we present an update on the origins and behaviour of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and discuss the potential causes of the heterogeneity of COVID-19. In addition, we summarize the pathobiology of COVID-19, with an emphasis on the role of the pulmonary vasculature, both in the acute stage and in terms of the potential for developing chronic pulmonary hypertension. We hope that the information presented in this Review will help in the development of strategies for the prevention and treatment of the continuing COVID-19 pandemic. In this Review, the authors discuss the potential causes of the heterogeneity of COVID-19 and summarize the pathobiology of the disease, with an emphasis on the role of the pulmonary vasculature in the acute stage and the potential for developing chronic pulmonary hypertension. A thorough understanding of the dynamic behaviour of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is essential to understanding its heterogeneous effects on the pulmonary vasculature in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The severity and clinical phenotype of COVID-19 are influenced by host factors, including socioeconomic factors and genetics. Silent hypoxia is a major and independent cause of lung damage in COVID-19; the use of modern imaging techniques is proving to be very valuable in identifying silent hypoxia. The pulmonary vascular system has a major role in the pathobiology of COVID-19. Both COVID-19 and chronic pulmonary hypertension are global diseases with a complex interaction.
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25
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Rath S, Perikala V, Jena AB, Dandapat J. Factors regulating dynamics of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2), the gateway of SARS-CoV-2: Epigenetic modifications and therapeutic interventions by epidrugs. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 143:112095. [PMID: 34479017 PMCID: PMC8403698 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) is one of the major components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and participates in the physiological functions of the cardiovascular system and lungs. Recent studies identified ACE2 as the receptor for the S-protein of the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and thus acts as the gateway for viral entry into the human body. Virus infection causes an imbalance in the RAS axis and induces acute lungs injury and fibrosis. Various factors regulate ACE2 expression patterns as well as control its epigenetic status at both transcription and translational levels. This review is mainly focused on the impact of environmental toxicants, drugs, endocrine disruptors, and hypoxia as controlling parameters for ACE2 expression and its possible modulation by epigenetic changes which are marked by DNA methylation, histone modifications, and micro-RNAs (miRNAs) profile. Furthermore, we have emphasized on interventions of various phytochemicals and bioactive compounds as epidrugs that regulate ACE2-S-protein interaction and thereby curb viral infection. Since ACE2 is an important component of the RAAS axis and a crucial entry point of SARS-CoV-2, the dynamics of ACE2 expression in response to various extrinsic and intrinsic factors are of contemporary relevance. We have collated updated information on ACE2 expression modulated by epidrugs, and urge to take over further studies on these important physiological regulators to unravel many more systemic linkages related to both metabolic and infectious diseases, in general and SARS-CoV-2 in particular for further development of targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suvasmita Rath
- Centre of Environment, Climate Change and Public Health, Utkal University, Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar 751004, Odisha, India
| | - Venkateswarlu Perikala
- Centre of Environment, Climate Change and Public Health, Utkal University, Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar 751004, Odisha, India
| | - Atala Bihari Jena
- Centre of Excellence in Integrated Omics and Computational Biology, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar 751004, Odisha, India
| | - Jagneshwar Dandapat
- Centre of Excellence in Integrated Omics and Computational Biology, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar 751004, Odisha, India; Post-Graduate Department of Biotechnology, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar 751004, Odisha, India.
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26
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AbdelHamid SG, Refaat AA, Benjamin AM, Elmawardy LA, Elgendy LA, Manolly MM, Elmaksoud NA, Sherif N, Hamdy NM. Deciphering epigenetic(s) role in modulating susceptibility to and severity of COVID-19 infection and/or outcome: a systematic rapid review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:54209-54221. [PMID: 34383213 PMCID: PMC8359636 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15588-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic waves hitting worldwide result in drastic postinfection complications with interindividual variations, which raised the question for the cause of these observed variations. This urged to think "the impact of environment-affected genes"? In an attempt to unravel the impact of environment-affected genes, a systematic rapid review was conducted to study "the impact of host or viral epigenetic modulation on COVID-19 infection susceptibility and/or outcome." Electronic databases including Web of Science, SCOPUS, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, and Google Scholar, and other databases were searched. The search strings included "COVID-19" OR "SARS-CoV-2" AND (Epigenetics'). Articles with randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and observational study designs, conducted on humans and available in the English language, were selected, with respect to "The interplay between the SARS-CoV-2 virus and Epigenetics" published from 2020 to February 2021 (but not limited to 2020, being expanded to 2015). Database search yielded 1330 articles; after screening, exclusion, and further filtrations, 51 articles were included. Susceptibility to COVID-19 infection is related to the viral-microRNAs (miRNAs) which alter virulence of the transmitted SARS-CoV-2 strains and impact host-miRNA-related innate immunity. Host-DNA methylation and/or chromatin remodeling may be implicated in severe cytokine storm that can ultimately results in fatal outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherihan G AbdelHamid
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, 11566, Abassia, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Aya A Refaat
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, 11566, Abassia, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Anthony M Benjamin
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, 11566, Abassia, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Laila A Elmawardy
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, 11566, Abassia, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Lougine A Elgendy
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, 11566, Abassia, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mark M Manolly
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, 11566, Abassia, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nada Abd Elmaksoud
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, 11566, Abassia, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nourhan Sherif
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, 11566, Abassia, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nadia M Hamdy
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, 11566, Abassia, Cairo, Egypt.
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27
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Li F, Boon AC, Michelson AP, Foraker RE, Zhan M, Payne PR. Estrogen Hormone Is an Essential Sex Factor Inhibiting Inflammation and Immune Response in COVID-19. RESEARCH SQUARE 2021:rs.3.rs-936900. [PMID: 34611658 PMCID: PMC8491851 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-936900/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Although vaccines have been evaluated and approved for SARS-CoV-2 infection prevention, there remains a lack of effective treatments to reduce the mortality of COVID-19 patients already infected with SARS-CoV-2. The global data of COVID-19 showed that men have a higher mortality rate than women. We further observed that the proportion of mortality of female increases starting from around the age of 55 significantly. Thus, sex is an essential factor associated with COVID-19 mortality, and sex related genetic factors could be interesting mechanisms and targets for COVID-19 treatment. However, the associated sex factors and signaling pathways remain unclear. Here, we propose to uncover the potential sex associated factors using systematic and integrative network analysis. The unique results indicated that estrogen hormones (ER), e.g., estrone and estriol, 1) interacting with ESR1/2 receptors, 2) can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 caused inflammation and immune response signaling in host cells; and 3) estrogen hormone is associated with the distinct fatality rates between male and female COVID-19 patients. Specifically, a high level of estradiol protecting young female COVID-19 patients, and estrogen loss to an extremely low level in females after about 55 years of age causing the increased fatality rate of women. In conclusion, estrogen hormone, interacting with ESR1/2 receptors, is an essential sex factor that protects COVID-19 patients by inhibiting inflammation and immune response caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Medications perturb the down-stream of ESR1/ESR2 to inhibit the inflammation and immune response can be effective or synergistic combined with other existing drugs for COVID-19 treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuhai Li
- Institute for Informatics (I2), Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Adrianus C.M. Boon
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Pathology & Immunology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Andrew P. Michelson
- Institute for Informatics (I2), Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Randi E. Foraker
- Institute for Informatics (I2), Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ming Zhan
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Philip R.O. Payne
- Institute for Informatics (I2), Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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28
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Zhou YW, Xie Y, Tang LS, Pu D, Zhu YJ, Liu JY, Ma XL. Therapeutic targets and interventional strategies in COVID-19: mechanisms and clinical studies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:317. [PMID: 34446699 PMCID: PMC8390046 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00733-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Owing to the limitations of the present efforts on drug discovery against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the lack of the understanding of the biological regulation mechanisms underlying COVID-19, alternative or novel therapeutic targets for COVID-19 treatment are still urgently required. SARS-CoV-2 infection and immunity dysfunction are the two main courses driving the pathogenesis of COVID-19. Both the virus and host factors are potential targets for antiviral therapy. Hence, in this study, the current therapeutic strategies of COVID-19 have been classified into "target virus" and "target host" categories. Repurposing drugs, emerging approaches, and promising potential targets are the implementations of the above two strategies. First, a comprehensive review of the highly acclaimed old drugs was performed according to evidence-based medicine to provide recommendations for clinicians. Additionally, their unavailability in the fight against COVID-19 was analyzed. Next, a profound analysis of the emerging approaches was conducted, particularly all licensed vaccines and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) enrolled in clinical trials against primary SARS-CoV-2 and mutant strains. Furthermore, the pros and cons of the present licensed vaccines were compared from different perspectives. Finally, the most promising potential targets were reviewed, and the update of the progress of treatments has been summarized based on these reviews.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Wen Zhou
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yao Xie
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Department of Dermatovenerology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lian-Sha Tang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Dan Pu
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ya-Juan Zhu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ji-Yan Liu
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
| | - Xue-Lei Ma
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
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29
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Yildirim Z, Sahin OS, Yazar S, Bozok Cetintas V. Genetic and epigenetic factors associated with increased severity of Covid-19. Cell Biol Int 2021; 45:1158-1174. [PMID: 33590936 PMCID: PMC8014716 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Since December 2019, a new form of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) from a novel strain of coronavirus (SARS coronavirus 2 [SARS-CoV-2]) has been spreading worldwide. The disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 was named Covid-19 and declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020. Clinical symptoms of Covid-19 range from common cold to more severe disease defined as pneumonia, hypoxia, and severe respiratory distress. In the next stage, disease can become more critical with respiratory failure, sepsis, septic shock, and/or multiorgan failure. Outcomes of Covid-19 indicate large gaps between the male-female and the young-elder groups. Several theories have been proposed to explain variations, such as gender, age, comorbidity, and genetic factors. It is likely that mixture of genetic and nongenetic factors interplays between virus and host genetics and determines the severity of disease outcome. In this review, we aimed to summarize current literature in terms of potential host genetic and epigenetic factors that associated with increased severity of Covid-19. Several studies indicated that the genetic variants of the SARS-CoV-2 entry mechanism-related (angiotensin-converting enzymes, transmembrane serine protease-2, furin) and host innate immune response-related genes (interferons [IFNs], interleukins, toll-like receptors), and human leukocyte antigen, ABO, 3p21.31, and 9q34.2 loci are critical host determinants related to Covid-19 severity. Epigenetic mechanisms also affect Covid-19 outcomes by regulating IFN signaling, angiotensin-converting enzyme-2, and immunity-related genes that particularly escape from X chromosome inactivation. Enhanced understanding of host genetic and epigenetic factors and viral interactions of SARS-CoV-2 is critical for improved prognostic tools and innovative therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zafer Yildirim
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of MedicineEge UniversityIzmirTurkey
| | - Oyku Semahat Sahin
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of MedicineEge UniversityIzmirTurkey
| | - Seyhan Yazar
- Garvan‐Weizmann Centre for Cellular GenomicsGarvan Institute of Medical ResearchSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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30
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Byttebier G, Belmans L, Alexander M, Saxberg BEH, De Spiegeleer B, De Spiegeleer A, Devreker N, Van Praet JT, Vanhove K, Reybrouck R, Wynendaele E, Fedson DS. Hospital mortality in COVID-19 patients in Belgium treated with statins, ACE inhibitors and/or ARBs. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2021; 17:2841-2850. [PMID: 34047686 PMCID: PMC8171011 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2021.1920271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted life throughout the world. Newly developed vaccines promise relief to people who live in high-income countries, although vaccines and expensive new treatments are unlikely to arrive in time to help people who live in low-and middle-income countries. The pathogenesis of COVID-19 is characterized by endothelial dysfunction. Several widely available drugs like statins, ACE inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) have immunometabolic activities that (among other things) maintain or restore endothelial cell function. For this reason, we undertook an observational study in four Belgian hospitals to determine whether in-hospital treatment with these drugs could improve survival in 959 COVID-19 patients. We found that treatment with statins and ACEIs/ARBs reduced 28-day mortality in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Moreover, combination treatment with these drugs resulted in a 3-fold reduction in the odds of hospital mortality (OR = 0.33; 95% CI 0.17–0.69). These findings were in general agreement with other published studies. Additional observational studies and clinical trials are needed to convincingly show that in-hospital treatment with statins, ACEIs/ARBs, and especially their combination saves lives.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luc Belmans
- Department of R&D, Medaman BV, Geel, Belgium
| | | | | | | | | | - Nick Devreker
- Department of Medical Data Management, AZ Delta, Roeselare, Belgium
| | - Jens T Van Praet
- Department of Nephrology and Infectious Diseases, AZ Sint-Jan Brugge-Oostende AV, Bruges, Belgium
| | - Karolien Vanhove
- Department of Pneumology and Respiratory Oncology, AZ Vesalius, Tongeren, Belgium
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31
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Balnis J, Madrid A, Hogan KJ, Drake LA, Chieng HC, Tiwari A, Vincent CE, Chopra A, Vincent PA, Robek MD, Singer HA, Alisch RS, Jaitovich A. Blood DNA methylation and COVID-19 outcomes. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:118. [PMID: 34034806 PMCID: PMC8148415 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01102-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are no prior reports that compare differentially methylated regions of DNA in blood samples from COVID-19 patients to samples collected before the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic using a shared epigenotyping platform. We performed a genome-wide analysis of circulating blood DNA CpG methylation using the Infinium Human MethylationEPIC BeadChip on 124 blood samples from hospitalized COVID-19-positive and COVID-19-negative patients and compared these data with previously reported data from 39 healthy individuals collected before the pandemic. Prospective outcome measures such as COVID-19-GRAM risk-score and mortality were combined with methylation data. RESULTS Global mean methylation levels did not differ between COVID-19 patients and healthy pre-pandemic controls. About 75% of acute illness-associated differentially methylated regions were located near gene promoter regions and were hypo-methylated in comparison with healthy pre-pandemic controls. Gene ontology analyses revealed terms associated with the immune response to viral infections and leukocyte activation; and disease ontology analyses revealed a predominance of autoimmune disorders. Among COVID-19-positive patients, worse outcomes were associated with a prevailing hyper-methylated status. Recursive feature elimination identified 77 differentially methylated positions predictive of COVID-19 severity measured by the GRAM-risk score. CONCLUSION Our data contribute to the awareness that DNA methylation may influence the expression of genes that regulate COVID-19 progression and represent a targetable process in that setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Balnis
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Andy Madrid
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kirk J Hogan
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Lisa A Drake
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Hau C Chieng
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Anupama Tiwari
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Catherine E Vincent
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Amit Chopra
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Peter A Vincent
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Michael D Robek
- Department of Immunology and Microbial Disease, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Harold A Singer
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Reid S Alisch
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Ariel Jaitovich
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, USA.
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA.
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Jain S, Potschka H, Chandra PP, Tripathi M, Vohora D. Management of COVID-19 in patients with seizures: Mechanisms of action of potential COVID-19 drug treatments and consideration for potential drug-drug interactions with anti-seizure medications. Epilepsy Res 2021; 174:106675. [PMID: 34044300 PMCID: PMC8132550 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2021.106675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In regard to the global pandemic of COVID-19, it seems that persons with epilepsy (PWE) are not more vulnerable to get infected by SARS-CoV-2, nor are they more susceptible to a critical course of the disease. However, management of acute seizures in patients with COVID-19 as well as management of PWE and COVID-19 needs to consider potential drug-drug interactions between antiseizure drugs and candidate drugs currently assessed as therapeutic options for COVID-19. Repurposing of several licensed and investigational drugs is discussed for therapeutic management of COVID-19. While for none of these approaches, efficacy and tolerability has been confirmed yet in sufficiently powered and controlled clinical studies, testing is ongoing with multiple clinical trials worldwide. Here, we have summarized the possible mechanisms of action of drugs currently considered as potential therapeutic options for COVID-19 management along with possible and confirmed drug-drug interactions that should be considered for a combination of antiseizure drugs and COVID-19 candidate drugs. Our review suggests that potential drug-drug interactions should be taken into account with drugs such as chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine and lopinavir/ritonavir while remdesivir and tocilizumab may be less prone to clinically relevant interactions with ASMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreshta Jain
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Heidrun Potschka
- Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Königinstr. 16, D-80539, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Manjari Tripathi
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Divya Vohora
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India.
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Herbein G. An epigenetic signature to fight COVID-19. EBioMedicine 2021; 67:103385. [PMID: 33993054 PMCID: PMC8116817 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Georges Herbein
- Department of Virology, Pathogens & Inflammation EPILAB Laboratory, University of Franche-Comté, COMUE Bourgogne Franche-Comté University, CHRU Besançon, Besançon EA4266, France.
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Badary OA, Hamza MS, Tikamdas R. Thymoquinone: A Promising Natural Compound with Potential Benefits for COVID-19 Prevention and Cure. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2021; 15:1819-1833. [PMID: 33976534 PMCID: PMC8106451 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s308863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 has caused a major global health crisis, as excessive inflammation, oxidation, and exaggerated immune response in some sufferers can lead to a condition known as cytokine storm, which may progress to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDs), which can be fatal. So far, few effective drugs have emerged to assist in the treatment of patients with COVID-19, though some herbal medicine candidates may assist in the fight against COVID-19 deaths. Thymoquinone (TQ), the main active ingredient of black seed oil, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory and anticoagulant activities. TQ also increases the activity and number of cytokine suppressors, lymphocytes, natural killer cells, and macrophages, and it has demonstrated antiviral potential against a number of viruses, including murine cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis C virus, human immunodeficiency virus, and other coronaviruses. Recently, TQ has demonstrated notable antiviral activity against a SARSCoV-2 strain isolated from Egyptian patients and, interestingly, molecular docking studies have also shown that TQ could potentially inhibit COVID-19 development through binding to the receptor-binding domain on the spike and envelope proteins of SARS-CoV-2, which may hinder virus entry into the host cell and inhibit its ion channel and pore forming activity. Other studies have shown that TQ may have an inhibitory effect on SARS CoV2 proteases, which could diminish viral replication, and it has also demonstrated good antagonism to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors, allowing it to interfere with virus uptake into the host cell. Several studies have also noted its potential protective capability against numerous chronic diseases and conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, asthma, renal dysfunction and malignancy. TQ has recently been tested in clinical trials for the treatment of several different diseases, and this review thus aims to highlight the potential therapeutic effects of TQ in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama A Badary
- Clinical Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt.,Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa S Hamza
- Clinical Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rajiv Tikamdas
- Clinical Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
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Dzobo K. Coronavirus Disease 19 and Future Ecological Crises: Hopes from Epigenomics and Unraveling Genome Regulation in Humans and Infectious Agents. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2021; 25:269-278. [PMID: 33904782 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2021.0024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
With coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), we have witnessed a shift from public health to planetary health and a growing recognition of the importance of systems science in developing effective solutions against pandemics in the 21st century. COVID-19 and the history of frequent infectious outbreaks in the last two decades suggest that COVID-19 is likely a dry run for future ecological crises. Now is the right time to plan ahead and deploy the armamentarium of systems science scholarship for planetary health. The science of epigenomics, which investigates both genetic and nongenetic traits regarding heritable phenotypic alterations, and new approaches to understanding genome regulation in humans and pathogens offer veritable prospects to boost the global scientific capacities to innovate therapeutics and diagnostics against novel and existing infectious agents. Several reversible epigenetic alterations, such as chromatin remodeling and histone methylation, control and influence gene expression. COVID-19 lethality is linked, in part, to the cytokine storm, age, and status of the immune system in a given person. Additionally, due to reduced human mobility and daily activities, effects of the pandemic on the environment have been both positive and negative. For example, reduction in environmental pollution and lesser extraction from nature have potential positive corollaries on water and air quality. Negative effects include pollution as plastics and other materials were disposed in unconventional places and spaces in the course of the pandemic. I discuss the opportunities and challenges associated with the science of epigenomics, specifically with an eye to inform and prevent future ecological crises and pandemics that are looming on the horizon in the 21st century. In particular, this article underscores that epigenetics of both viruses and the host may influence virus infectivity and severity of attendant disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Dzobo
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Cape Town, South Africa.,Division of Medical Biochemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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36
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Epigenetic Evolution of ACE2 and IL-6 Genes: Non-Canonical Interferon-Stimulated Genes Correlate to COVID-19 Susceptibility in Vertebrates. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12020154. [PMID: 33503821 PMCID: PMC7912275 DOI: 10.3390/genes12020154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The current novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread globally within a matter of months. The virus establishes a success in balancing its deadliness and contagiousness, and causes substantial differences in susceptibility and disease progression in people of different ages, genders and pre-existing comorbidities. These host factors are subjected to epigenetic regulation; therefore, relevant analyses on some key genes underlying COVID-19 pathogenesis were performed to longitudinally decipher their epigenetic correlation to COVID-19 susceptibility. The genes of host angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2, as the major virus receptor) and interleukin (IL)-6 (a key immuno-pathological factor triggering cytokine storm) were shown to evince active epigenetic evolution via histone modification and cis/trans-factors interaction across different vertebrate species. Extensive analyses revealed that ACE2 ad IL-6 genes are among a subset of non-canonical interferon-stimulated genes (non-ISGs), which have been designated for their unconventional responses to interferons (IFNs) and inflammatory stimuli through an epigenetic cascade. Furthermore, significantly higher positive histone modification markers and position weight matrix (PWM) scores of key cis-elements corresponding to inflammatory and IFN signaling, were discovered in both ACE2 and IL6 gene promoters across representative COVID-19-susceptible species compared to unsusceptible ones. The findings characterize ACE2 and IL-6 genes as non-ISGs that respond differently to inflammatory and IFN signaling from the canonical ISGs. The epigenetic properties ACE2 and IL-6 genes may serve as biomarkers to longitudinally predict COVID-19 susceptibility in vertebrates and partially explain COVID-19 inequality in people of different subgroups.
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Teodori L, Sestili P, Madiai V, Coppari S, Fraternale D, Rocchi MBL, Ramakrishna S, Albertini MC. MicroRNAs Bioinformatics Analyses Identifying HDAC Pathway as a Putative Target for Existing Anti-COVID-19 Therapeutics. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:582003. [PMID: 33363465 PMCID: PMC7753186 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.582003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Over 313,000 SARS-CoV-2 positive cases have been confirmed in Italy as of 30 September 2020, and the number of deaths exceeding thirty-five thousand makes Italy among the list of most significantly affected countries in the world. Such an enormous occurrence of infections and death raises the urgent demand for effective available treatments. Discovering the cellular/molecular mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenicity is of paramount importance to understand how the infection becomes a disease and how to plan any therapeutic approach. In this regard, we performed an in silico analysis to predict the putative virus targets and evidence the already available therapeutics. Literature experimental results identified angiotensin-converting enzyme ACE and Spike proteins particularly involved in COVID-19. Consequently, we investigated the signalling pathways modulated by the two proteins through query miRNet, the platform linking miRNAs, targets, and functions. Our bioinformatics analysis predicted microRNAs (miRs), miR-335-5p and miR-26b-5p, as being modulated by Spike and ACE together with histone deacetylate (HDAC) pathway. Notably, our results identified ACE/ACE2-ATR1-Cholesterol-HDAC axis signals that also matched with some available clinical data. We hypothesize that the current and EMA-approved, SARS-CoV-2 off-label HDAC inhibitors (HDACis) drugs may be repurposed to limit or block host-virus interactions. Moreover, a ranked list of compounds is provided for further evaluation for safety, efficacy, and effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Teodori
- Diagnostics and Metrology Laboratory, FSN-TECFIS-DIM, ENEA Frascati, Roma, Italy
| | - Piero Sestili
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Valeria Madiai
- Diagnostics and Metrology Laboratory, FSN-TECFIS-DIM, ENEA Frascati, Roma, Italy
| | - Sofia Coppari
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Daniele Fraternale
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | | | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Center for Nanofibers and Nanotechnology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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38
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McCoy K, Peterson A, Tian Y, Sang Y. Immunogenetic Association Underlying Severe COVID-19. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:E700. [PMID: 33233531 PMCID: PMC7711778 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8040700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV2 has caused the current pandemic of new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) worldwide. Clinical outcomes of COVID-19 illness range broadly from asymptotic and mild to a life-threatening situation. This casts uncertainties for defining host determinants underlying the disease severity. Recent genetic analyses based on extensive clinical sample cohorts using genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and high throughput sequencing curation revealed genetic errors and gene loci associated with about 20% of life-threatening COVID-19 cases. Significantly, most of these critical genetic loci are enriched in two immune signaling pathways, i.e., interferon-mediated antiviral signaling and chemokine-mediated/inflammatory signaling. In line with these genetic profiling studies, the broad spectrum of COVID-19 illness could be explained by immuno-pathological regulation of these critical immunogenetic pathways through various epigenetic mechanisms, which further interconnect to other vital components such as those in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) because of its direct interaction with the virus causing COVID-19. Together, key genes unraveled by genetic profiling may provide targets for precisely early risk diagnosis and prophylactic design to relieve severe COVID-19. The confounding epigenetic mechanisms may be key to understanding the clinical broadness of COVID-19 illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendall McCoy
- Department of Biology, College of Life and Physical Sciences, Tennessee State University, 3500 John A. Merritt Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37209, USA; (K.M.); (A.P.)
| | - Autumn Peterson
- Department of Biology, College of Life and Physical Sciences, Tennessee State University, 3500 John A. Merritt Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37209, USA; (K.M.); (A.P.)
| | - Yun Tian
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture, Tennessee State University, 3500 John A. Merritt Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37209, USA;
| | - Yongming Sang
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture, Tennessee State University, 3500 John A. Merritt Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37209, USA;
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Atlante S, Mongelli A, Barbi V, Martelli F, Farsetti A, Gaetano C. The epigenetic implication in coronavirus infection and therapy. Clin Epigenetics 2020; 12:156. [PMID: 33087172 PMCID: PMC7576975 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00946-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics is a relatively new field of science that studies the genetic and non-genetic aspects related to heritable phenotypic changes, frequently caused by environmental and metabolic factors. In the host, the epigenetic machinery can regulate gene expression through a series of reversible epigenetic modifications, such as histone methylation and acetylation, DNA/RNA methylation, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNAs. The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is a highly transmittable and pathogenic viral infection. The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which emerged in Wuhan, China, and spread worldwide, causes it. COVID-19 severity and consequences largely depend on patient age and health status. In this review, we will summarize and comparatively analyze how viruses regulate the host epigenome. Mainly, we will be focusing on highly pathogenic respiratory RNA virus infections such as coronaviruses. In this context, epigenetic alterations might play an essential role in the onset of coronavirus disease complications. Although many therapeutic approaches are under study, more research is urgently needed to identify effective vaccine or safer chemotherapeutic drugs, including epigenetic drugs, to cope with this viral outbreak and to develop pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Atlante
- Laboratorio di Epigenetica, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 4, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessia Mongelli
- Laboratorio di Epigenetica, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 4, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Veronica Barbi
- Laboratorio di Epigenetica, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 4, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Fabio Martelli
- Laboratorio di Cardiologia Molecolare, Policlinico San Donato IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Farsetti
- Institute for Systems Analysis and Computer Science “A. Ruberti” (IASI), National Research Council (CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Gaetano
- Laboratorio di Epigenetica, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 4, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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