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Das S, Khan R, Banerjee S, Ray S, Ray S. Alterations in Circadian Rhythms, Sleep, and Physical Activity in COVID-19: Mechanisms, Interventions, and Lessons for the Future. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04178-5. [PMID: 38702566 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04178-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Although the world is acquitting from the throes of COVID-19 and returning to the regularity of life, its effects on physical and mental health are prominently evident in the post-pandemic era. The pandemic subjected us to inadequate sleep and physical activities, stress, irregular eating patterns, and work hours beyond the regular rest-activity cycle. Thus, perturbing the synchrony of the regular circadian clock functions led to chronic psychiatric and neurological disorders and poor immunological response in several COVID-19 survivors. Understanding the links between the host immune system and viral replication machinery from a clock-infection biology perspective promises novel avenues of intervention. Behavioral improvements in our daily lifestyle can reduce the severity and expedite the convalescent stage of COVID-19 by maintaining consistent eating, sleep, and physical activity schedules. Including dietary supplements and nutraceuticals with prophylactic value aids in combating COVID-19, as their deficiency can lead to a higher risk of infection, vulnerability, and severity of COVID-19. Thus, besides developing therapeutic measures, perpetual healthy practices could also contribute to combating the upcoming pandemics. This review highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on biological rhythms, sleep-wake cycles, physical activities, and eating patterns and how those disruptions possibly contribute to the response, severity, and outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandip Das
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, 502284, Telangana, India
| | - Rajni Khan
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) - Hajipur, Vaishali, Hajipur, 844102, Bihar, India
| | - Srishti Banerjee
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, 502284, Telangana, India
| | - Shashikant Ray
- Department of Biotechnology, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Motihari, 845401, India.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - Sandipan Ray
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, 502284, Telangana, India.
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2
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Guerrero-Romero F, Micke O, Simental-Mendía LE, Rodríguez-Morán M, Vormann J, Iotti S, Banjanin N, Rosanoff A, Baniasadi S, Pourdowlat G, Nechifor M. Importance of Magnesium Status in COVID-19. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:735. [PMID: 37237547 PMCID: PMC10215232 DOI: 10.3390/biology12050735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
A large amount of published research points to the interesting concept (hypothesis) that magnesium (Mg) status may have relevance for the outcome of COVID-19 and that Mg could be protective during the COVID disease course. As an essential element, Mg plays basic biochemical, cellular, and physiological roles required for cardiovascular, immunological, respiratory, and neurological functions. Both low serum and dietary Mg have been associated with the severity of COVID-19 outcomes, including mortality; both are also associated with COVID-19 risk factors such as older age, obesity, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and asthma. In addition, populations with high rates of COVID-19 mortality and hospitalization tend to consume diets high in modern processed foods, which are generally low in Mg. In this review, we review the research to describe and consider the possible impact of Mg and Mg status on COVID-19 showing that (1) serum Mg between 2.19 and 2.26 mg/dL and dietary Mg intakes > 329 mg/day could be protective during the disease course and (2) inhaled Mg may improve oxygenation of hypoxic COVID-19 patients. In spite of such promise, oral Mg for COVID-19 has thus far been studied only in combination with other nutrients. Mg deficiency is involved in the occurrence and aggravation of neuropsychiatric complications of COVID-19, including memory loss, cognition, loss of taste and smell, ataxia, confusion, dizziness, and headache. Potential of zinc and/or Mg as useful for increasing drug therapy effectiveness or reducing adverse effect of anti-COVID-19 drugs is reviewed. Oral Mg trials of patients with COVID-19 are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Guerrero-Romero
- Biomedical Research Unit, Mexican Social Security Institute, Durango 34067, Mexico; (F.G.-R.); (L.E.S.-M.); (M.R.-M.)
| | - Oliver Micke
- Department of Radiation Therapy and Radiation Oncology, Franziskus Hospital, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany;
| | - Luis E. Simental-Mendía
- Biomedical Research Unit, Mexican Social Security Institute, Durango 34067, Mexico; (F.G.-R.); (L.E.S.-M.); (M.R.-M.)
| | - Martha Rodríguez-Morán
- Biomedical Research Unit, Mexican Social Security Institute, Durango 34067, Mexico; (F.G.-R.); (L.E.S.-M.); (M.R.-M.)
| | - Juergen Vormann
- Institute for Prevention and Nutrition, 85737 Ismaning, Germany;
| | - Stefano Iotti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Universita di Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, 00136 Rome, Italy
| | - Nikolina Banjanin
- Institute of Hygiene and Medical Ecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Andrea Rosanoff
- CMER Center for Magnesium Education & Research, Pahoa, HI 96778, USA
| | - Shadi Baniasadi
- Tracheal Diseases Research Center, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 198396-3113, Iran;
| | - Guitti Pourdowlat
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases Research Centre, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 198396-3113, Iran;
| | - Mihai Nechifor
- Department of Pharmacology, Gr. T Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
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3
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Toussi SS, Hammond JL, Gerstenberger BS, Anderson AS. Therapeutics for COVID-19. Nat Microbiol 2023; 8:771-786. [PMID: 37142688 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-023-01356-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Vaccines and monoclonal antibody treatments to prevent severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) illness were available within a year of the pandemic being declared but there remained an urgent need for therapeutics to treat patients who were not vaccinated, were immunocompromised or whose vaccine immunity had waned. Initial results for investigational therapies were mixed. AT-527, a repurposed nucleoside inhibitor for hepatitis C virus, enabled viral load reduction in a hospitalized cohort but did not reduce viral load in outpatients. The nucleoside inhibitor molnupiravir prevented death but failed to prevent hospitalization. Nirmatrelvir, an inhibitor of the main protease (Mpro), co-dosed with the pharmacokinetic booster ritonavir, reduced hospitalization and death. Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir and molnupiravir received an Emergency Use Authorization in the United States at the end of 2021. Immunomodulatory drugs such as baricitinib, tocilizumab and corticosteroid, which target host-driven COVID-19 symptoms, are also in use. We highlight the development of COVID-19 therapies and the challenges that remain for anticoronavirals.
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4
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Ibrahim Alhajjaji G, Alotaibi N, Abutaleb N, Alotaibi MM, Alhajjaji A, Alotaibi AS, Alshehail B, Alotaibi ME. Effect of zinc supplementation on symptom reduction and length of hospital stay among pediatric patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Saudi Pharm J 2023; 31:585-591. [PMID: 37009426 PMCID: PMC9984234 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2023.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Zinc is considered an essential multipurpose trace element because of its ability to act as a cofactor and signaling molecule. As reported in earlier studies of pediatric respiratory infection management, zinc exhibits potent immunoregulatory and antiviral properties, but its effects on pediatric patients with COVID-19 remain unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the extent to which zinc supplementation improves COVID-19 symptoms, length of hospitalization and, to determine how zinc supplementation impacts ICU admission, in-hospital mortality, need for ventilation, duration of ventilation, need for vasopressors, development of liver injury, or respiratory failure. Methods Pediatric patients younger than 18 years with confirmed COVID-19 infection during the study period (March 1, 2020, to December 31, 2021) were recruited for this retrospective cohort study. The study population was divided into two arms (zinc/no zinc supplementation as an adjunct to standard therapy). Results Of 169 hospitalized patients who were screened, 101 met the inclusion criteria. No statistically significant association was found between the administration of zinc as adjunctive therapy and symptom reduction, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, or mortality (p = 0.105; p = 0.941, and p = 0.073, respectively). However, zinc supplementation was associated with a statistically significant reduction in respiratory failure and length of hospitalization (p = 0.004 and p = 0.017, respectively), also, zinc administration was associated with elevated serum creatinine (p = 0.01*). Conclusions Among pediatric patients with COVID-19, zinc supplementation was associated with shorter hospital stay. However, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of symptom improvement, in-hospital mortality, or ICU admission. In addition, the study raises question about the possibility of kidney injury as indicated by high levels of serum creatinine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nouf Alotaibi
- Umm Al-Qura university, Clinical pharmacy department, college of pharmacy, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nada Abutaleb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, Maternity and Children Hospital, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mishal M. Alotaibi
- Family Medicine, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Abdulmalik S. Alotaibi
- Umm Al-Qura university, Clinical pharmacy department, college of pharmacy, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bashayer Alshehail
- Pharmacy Practice Department, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Moawad E. Alotaibi
- Family Medicine, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Kladnik J, Dolinar A, Kljun J, Perea D, Grau-Expósito J, Genescà M, Novinec M, Buzon MJ, Turel I. Zinc pyrithione is a potent inhibitor of PL Pro and cathepsin L enzymes with ex vivo inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 entry and replication. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2022; 37:2158-2168. [PMID: 35943189 PMCID: PMC9367663 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2022.2108417] [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] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc pyrithione (1a), together with its analogues 1b–h and ruthenium pyrithione complex 2a, were synthesised and evaluated for the stability in biologically relevant media and anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity. Zinc pyrithione revealed potent in vitro inhibition of cathepsin L (IC50=1.88 ± 0.49 µM) and PLPro (IC50=0.50 ± 0.07 µM), enzymes involved in SARS-CoV-2 entry and replication, respectively, as well as antiviral entry and replication properties in an ex vivo system derived from primary human lung tissue. Zinc complexes 1b–h expressed comparable in vitro inhibition. On the contrary, ruthenium complex 2a and the ligand pyrithione a itself expressed poor inhibition in mentioned assays, indicating the importance of the selection of metal core and structure of metal complex for antiviral activity. Safe, effective, and preferably oral at-home therapeutics for COVID-19 are needed and as such zinc pyrithione, which is also commercially available, could be considered as a potential therapeutic agent against SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerneja Kladnik
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ana Dolinar
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jakob Kljun
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - David Perea
- Infectious Diseases Department, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, VHIR Task Force COVID-19, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judith Grau-Expósito
- Infectious Diseases Department, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, VHIR Task Force COVID-19, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meritxell Genescà
- Infectious Diseases Department, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, VHIR Task Force COVID-19, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marko Novinec
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maria J Buzon
- Infectious Diseases Department, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, VHIR Task Force COVID-19, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Iztok Turel
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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6
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Zinc in Human Health and Infectious Diseases. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121748. [PMID: 36551176 PMCID: PMC9775844 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
During the last few decades, the micronutrient zinc has proven to be an important metal ion for a well-functioning immune system, and thus also for a suitable immune defense. Nowadays, it is known that the main cause of zinc deficiency is malnutrition. In particular, vulnerable populations, such as the elderly in Western countries and children in developing countries, are often affected. However, sufficient zinc intake and homeostasis is essential for a healthy life, as it is known that zinc deficiency is associated with a multitude of immune disorders such as metabolic and chronic diseases, as well as infectious diseases such as respiratory infections, malaria, HIV, or tuberculosis. Moreover, the modulation of the proinflammatory immune response and oxidative stress is well described. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of zinc have been known for a long time, but are not comprehensively researched and understood yet. Therefore, this review highlights the current molecular mechanisms underlying the development of a pro-/ and anti-inflammatory immune response as a result of zinc deficiency and zinc supplementation. Additionally, we emphasize the potential of zinc as a preventive and therapeutic agent, alone or in combination with other strategies, that could ameliorate infectious diseases.
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Calder PC, Ortega EF, Meydani SN, Adkins Y, Stephensen CB, Thompson B, Zwickey H. Nutrition, Immunosenescence, and Infectious Disease: An Overview of the Scientific Evidence on Micronutrients and on Modulation of the Gut Microbiota. Adv Nutr 2022; 13:S1-S26. [PMID: 36183242 PMCID: PMC9526826 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmac052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system is key to host defense against pathogenic organisms. Aging is associated with changes in the immune system, with a decline in protective components (immunosenescence), increasing susceptibility to infectious disease, and a chronic elevation in low-grade inflammation (inflammaging), increasing the risk of multiple noncommunicable diseases. Nutrition is a determinant of immune cell function and of the gut microbiota. In turn, the gut microbiota shapes and controls the immune and inflammatory responses. Many older people show changes in the gut microbiota. Age-related changes in immune competence, low-grade inflammation, and gut dysbiosis may be interlinked and may relate, at least in part, to age-related changes in nutrition. A number of micronutrients (vitamins C, D, and E and zinc and selenium) play roles in supporting the function of many immune cell types. Some trials report that providing these micronutrients as individual supplements can reverse immune deficits in older people and/or in those with insufficient intakes. There is inconsistent evidence that this will reduce the risk or severity of infections including respiratory infections. Probiotic, prebiotic, or synbiotic strategies that modulate the gut microbiota, especially by promoting the colonization of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, have been demonstrated to modulate some immune and inflammatory biomarkers in older people and, in some cases, to reduce the risk and severity of gastrointestinal and respiratory infections, although, again, the evidence is inconsistent. Further research with well-designed and well-powered trials in at-risk older populations is required to be more certain about the role of micronutrients and of strategies that modify the gut microbiota-host relationship in protecting against infection, especially respiratory infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip C Calder
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Edwin Frank Ortega
- Nutritional Immunology Laboratory, Jean Mayer–USDA Human Nutrition Research on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Simin N Meydani
- Nutritional Immunology Laboratory, Jean Mayer–USDA Human Nutrition Research on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yuriko Adkins
- USDA Western Human Nutrition Research Center, Davis, CA, USA
- Nutrition Department, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Charles B Stephensen
- USDA Western Human Nutrition Research Center, Davis, CA, USA
- Nutrition Department, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Brice Thompson
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Heather Zwickey
- Helfgott Research Institute, National University of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR, USA
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8
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The Mechanisms of Zinc Action as a Potent Anti-Viral Agent: The Clinical Therapeutic Implication in COVID-19. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11101862. [PMID: 36290585 PMCID: PMC9598180 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11101862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The pandemic of COVID-19 was caused by a novel coronavirus termed as SARS-CoV2 and is still ongoing with high morbidity and mortality rates in the whole world. The pathogenesis of COVID-19 is highly linked with over-active immune and inflammatory responses, leading to activated cytokine storm, which contribute to ARDS with worsen outcome. Currently, there is no effective therapeutic drug for the treatment of COVID-19. Zinc is known to act as an immune modulator, which plays an important role in immune defense system. Recently, zinc has been widely considered as an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant agent. Accumulating numbers of studies have revealed that zinc plays an important role in antiviral immunity in several viral infections. Several early clinical trials clearly indicate that zinc treatment remarkably decreased the severity of the upper respiratory infection of rhinovirus in humans. Currently, zinc has been used for the therapeutic intervention of COVID-19 in many different clinical trials. Several clinical studies reveal that zinc treatment using a combination of HCQ and zinc pronouncedly reduced symptom score and the rates of hospital admission and mortality in COVID-19 patients. These data support that zinc might act as an anti-viral agent in the addition to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties for the adjuvant therapeutic intervention of COVID-19.
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9
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Wang F, Zhong J, Zhang R, Sun Y, Dong Y, Wang M, Sun C. Zinc and COVID-19: Immunity, Susceptibility, Severity and Intervention. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 64:1969-1987. [PMID: 36094452 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2119932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and continuing emergence of viral mutants, there has been a lack of effective treatment methods. Zinc maintains immune function, with direct and indirect antiviral activities. Zinc nutritional status is a critical factor in antiviral immune responses. Importantly, COVID-19 and zinc deficiency overlap in high-risk population. Hence, the potential effect of zinc as a preventive and adjunct therapy for COVID-19 is intriguing. Here, this review summarizes the immune and antiviral function of zinc, the relationship between zinc levels, susceptibility, and severity of COVID-19, and the effect of zinc supplementation on COVID-19. Existing studies have confirmed that zinc deficiency was associated with COVID-19 susceptibility and severity. Zinc supplementation plays a potentially protective role in enhancing immunity, decreasing susceptibility, shortening illness duration, and reducing the severity of COVID-19. We recommend that zinc levels should be monitored, particularly in COVID-19 patients, and zinc as a preventive and adjunct therapy for COVID-19 should be considered for groups at risk of zinc deficiency to reduce susceptibility and disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jiayi Zhong
- National Key Disciplines of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- National Key Disciplines of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yongzhi Sun
- National Key Disciplines of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yingran Dong
- National Key Disciplines of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Maoqing Wang
- National Key Disciplines of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Changhao Sun
- National Key Disciplines of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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10
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Li Y, Luo W, Liang B. Circulating trace elements status in COVID-19 disease: A meta-analysis. Front Nutr 2022; 9:982032. [PMID: 36034929 PMCID: PMC9411985 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.982032] [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: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Trace elements are a group of essential metals or metalloids, which are necessary for life, and present in minute amounts. Despite substantial researches highlighting the importance of trace elements in Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) diseases, a thorough evaluation of the levels of circulating trace elements is lacking. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the trace element status (Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, and Se) in COVID-19 disease. We also assessed the relationship between circulating trace elements and COVID-19 disease severity and survival status during follow-up. We searched comprehensively MEDLINE, Web of Science, CNKI, and WangFang databases without language restriction, between November 1, 2019 and April 1, 2022. The search identified 1,566 preliminary references. A total of 49 studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review, and 42 studies were included in the final meta-analysis. Meta-analysis showed that COVID-19 patients had significantly lower circulating Zn (SMD: -0.83, 95% CI: -1.19 to -0.46, P < 0.001), Fe (SMD: -1.56, 95% CI: -2.90 to -0.21, P = 0.023), and Se (SMD: -0.75, 95% CI: -0.94 to -0.56, P < 0.001) levels than healthy controls, and circulating Zn (SMD: -0.47, 95% CI: -0.75 to -0.18, P = 0.002), Fe (SMD: -0.45, 95% CI: -0.79 to -0.12, P = 0.008), and Se (SMD: -0.27, 95% CI: -0.49 to -0.04, P = 0.020) levels were associated with the presence of severity status in COVID-19 patients. Moreover, circulating Fe levels in non-survivors were significantly lower than survivors in COVID-19 (SMD: -0.28, 95% CI: -0.44 to -0.12, P = 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in Cu and Mg levels between COVID-19 patients and controls, severity and non-severity status, and survivors and non-survivors (all P > 0.05). Taken together, COVID-19 patients displayed lower circulating levels of Zn, Fe, and Se, and their levels were associated with severity status. Moreover, circulating Fe levels may provide part of the explanation for the unfavorable survival status. Therefore, we presumed optimistically that supplements of trace elements might provide an adjutant treatment in the early stages of COVID-19. Systematic review registration [https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero], identifier [CRD42022348599].
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhui Li
- Clinical Laboratory, PLA North Military Command Region General Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Weihe Luo
- Department of Medical Engineering, PLA North Military Command Region General Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Bin Liang
- Department of Bioinformatics, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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11
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Sumaily KM. The Roles and Pathogenesis Mechanisms of a Number of Micronutrients in the Prevention and/or Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis, COVID-19 and Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus. Nutrients 2022; 14:2632. [PMID: 35807813 PMCID: PMC9268086 DOI: 10.3390/nu14132632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A trace element is a chemical element with a concentration (or other measures of an amount) that is very low. The essential TEs, such as copper (Cu), selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe) and the electrolyte magnesium (Mg) are among the most commonly studied micronutrients. Each element has been shown to play a distinctive role in human health, and TEs, such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu), are among the essential elements required for the organisms' well-being as they play crucial roles in several metabolic pathways where they act as enzyme co-factors, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents. Epidemics of infectious diseases are becoming more frequent and spread at a faster pace around the world, which has resulted in major impacts on the economy and health systems. Different trace elements have been reported to have substantial roles in the pathogenesis of viral infections. Micronutrients have been proposed in various studies as determinants of liver disorders, COVID-19 and T2DM risks. This review article sheds light on the roles and mechanisms of micronutrients in the pathogenesis and prevention of chronic hepatitis B, C and E, as well as Coronavirus-19 infection and type-2 diabetes mellitus. An update on the status of the aforementioned micronutrients in pre-clinical and clinical settings is also briefly summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid M Sumaily
- Clinical Biochemistry Unit, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh P.O. Box 145111, Saudi Arabia
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12
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Sadeghsoltani F, Mohammadzadeh I, Safari MM, Hassanpour P, Izadpanah M, Qujeq D, Moein S, Vaghari-Tabari M. Zinc and Respiratory Viral Infections: Important Trace Element in Anti-viral Response and Immune Regulation. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022; 200:2556-2571. [PMID: 34368933 PMCID: PMC8349606 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-021-02859-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-COV2 are among the most dangerous respiratory viruses. Zinc is one of the essential micronutrients and is very important in the immune system. The aim of this narrative review is to review the most interesting findings about the importance of zinc in the anti-viral immune response in the respiratory tract and defense against influenza, RSV, and SARS-COV2 infections. The most interesting findings on the role of zinc in regulating immunity in the respiratory tract and the relationship between zinc and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are reviewed, as well. Besides, current findings regarding the relationship between zinc and the effectiveness of respiratory viruses' vaccines are reviewed. The results of reviewed studies have shown that zinc and some zinc-dependent proteins are involved in anti-viral defense and immune regulation in the respiratory tract. It seems that zinc can reduce the viral titer following influenza infection. Zinc may reduce RSV burden in the lungs. Zinc can be effective in reducing the duration of viral pneumonia symptoms. Zinc may enhance the effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine in reducing mortality rate in COVID-19 patients. Besides, zinc has a positive effect in preventing ARDS and ventilator-induced lung damage. The relationship between zinc levels and the effectiveness of respiratory viruses' vaccines, especially influenza vaccines, is still unclear, and the findings are somewhat contradictory. In conclusion, zinc has anti-viral properties and is important in defending against respiratory viral infections and regulating the immune response in the respiratory tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Sadeghsoltani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Daneshgah Street, P.O. Box 51666-14711, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Iraj Mohammadzadeh
- Non-Communicable Pediatric Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Mir-Meghdad Safari
- Virtual School of Medical Education and Management, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Hassanpour
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Daneshgah Street, P.O. Box 51666-14711, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Melika Izadpanah
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Durdi Qujeq
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center (CMBRC), Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Soheila Moein
- Medicinal Plants Processing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mostafa Vaghari-Tabari
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Daneshgah Street, P.O. Box 51666-14711, Tabriz, Iran.
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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13
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Hibino S, Hayashida K. Modifiable Host Factors for the Prevention and Treatment of COVID-19: Diet and Lifestyle/Diet and Lifestyle Factors in the Prevention of COVID-19. Nutrients 2022; 14:1876. [PMID: 35565841 PMCID: PMC9102954 DOI: 10.3390/nu14091876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Many studies have shown that the immune system requires adequate nutrition to work at an optimal level. Not only do optimized nutritional strategies support the immune system, but they also reduce chronic inflammation. Nutritional supplements that are recommended for patients with critical illnesses are thought to also be effective for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients in the intensive care unit. Some studies have recommended fresh fruits and vegetables, soy, nuts, and antioxidants, such as omega-3 fatty acids, to improve immune system activity. Although nutritional status is considered to be an important prognostic factor for patients with COVID-19, there is to date no sufficient evidence that optimal nutritional therapies can be beneficial for these patients. Some have argued that the COVID-19 pandemic is a good opportunity to test the effectiveness of nutritional intervention for infectious diseases. Many researchers have suggested that testing the proposed nutritional approaches for infectious diseases in the context of a pandemic would be highly informative. The authors of other review papers concluded that it is important to have a diet based on fresh foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and healthy fats (i.e., olive oil and fish oil), and to limit the intake of sugary drinks as well as high-calorie and high-salt foods. In this review, we discuss the clinical significance of functional food ingredients as complementary therapies potentially beneficial for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19. We believe that our review will be helpful to plan and deploy future studies to conclude these potentials against COVID-19, but also to new infectious diseases that may arise in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sawako Hibino
- Y’s Science Clinic Hiroo, Medical Corporation Koshikai, Tokyo 106-0047, Japan
- Department of Clinical Gene Therapy, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kazutaka Hayashida
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02459, USA;
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14
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Calder PC. Response to Singh and Singh. Nutr Diabetes 2022; 12:14. [PMID: 35354786 PMCID: PMC8964918 DOI: 10.1038/s41387-022-00195-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Philip C Calder
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK. .,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
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15
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Elements and COVID-19: A Comprehensive Overview of Studies on Their Blood/Urinary Levels and Supplementation with an Update on Clinical Trials. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11020215. [PMID: 35205082 PMCID: PMC8869171 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary COVID-19 is a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus spreading mainly through person-to-person contact. It has caused millions of deaths around the world and lasting health problems in individuals who have survived the disease. This review concisely summarizes certain issues related to COVID-19 with a focus on elements and gives an update on clinical trials where some minerals will be tested/have been tested alone or in combination with drugs, vitamins, or plant extracts/herbal formulations in COVID-19 patients and in those at higher COVID-19 risk. Abstract The current report provides a brief overview of the clinical features, hematological/biochemical abnormalities, biomarkers, and AI-related strategies in COVID-19; presents in a nutshell the pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapeutic options; and concisely summarizes the most important aspects related to sociodemographic and behavioral factors as well as comorbidities having an impact on this disease. It also gives a brief outline of the effect of selected elements on immune response and collects data on the levels of micro-/macro-elements and toxic metals in the blood/urine of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients and on supplementation with minerals in COVID-19 subjects. Moreover, this review provides an overview of clinical trials based on the use of minerals alone or in combination with other agents that can provide effective responses toward SARS-CoV-2 infection. The knowledge compiled in this report lays the groundwork for new therapeutic treatments and further research on biomarkers that should be as informative as possible about the patient’s condition and can provide more reliable information on COVID-19 course and prognosis. The collected results point to the need for clarification of the importance of mineral supplementation in COVID-19 and the relationships of the levels of some minerals with clinical improvement.
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Morales JS, Valenzuela PL, Castillo-García A, Butragueño J, Jiménez-Pavón D, Carrera-Bastos P, Lucia A. The Exposome and Immune Health in Times of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Nutrients 2021; 14:24. [PMID: 35010900 PMCID: PMC8746533 DOI: 10.3390/nu14010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence supports the importance of lifestyle and environmental exposures-collectively referred to as the 'exposome'-for ensuring immune health. In this narrative review, we summarize and discuss the effects of the different exposome components (physical activity, body weight management, diet, sun exposure, stress, sleep and circadian rhythms, pollution, smoking, and gut microbiome) on immune function and inflammation, particularly in the context of the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We highlight the potential role of 'exposome improvements' in the prevention-or amelioration, once established-of this disease as well as their effect on the response to vaccination. In light of the existing evidence, the promotion of a healthy exposome should be a cornerstone in the prevention and management of the COVID-19 pandemic and other eventual pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier S. Morales
- MOVE-IT Research Group, Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Education Sciences, Universidad de Cádiz, 11519 Cadiz, Spain;
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA) Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, University of Cádiz, 11009 Cadiz, Spain
| | - Pedro L. Valenzuela
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (P.L.V.); (A.L.)
- Physical Activity and Health Research Group (‘PaHerg’), Research Institute of the Hospital 12 de Octubre (‘imas12′), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Javier Butragueño
- LFE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM), 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - David Jiménez-Pavón
- MOVE-IT Research Group, Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Education Sciences, Universidad de Cádiz, 11519 Cadiz, Spain;
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA) Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, University of Cádiz, 11009 Cadiz, Spain
- CIBER of Frailty and Healthy Aging (CIBERFES), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro Carrera-Bastos
- Centre for Primary Health Care Research, Lund University, Skane University Hospital, 205 02 Malmö, Sweden;
- Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro Lucia
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (P.L.V.); (A.L.)
- Physical Activity and Health Research Group (‘PaHerg’), Research Institute of the Hospital 12 de Octubre (‘imas12′), 28041 Madrid, Spain
- CIBER of Frailty and Healthy Aging (CIBERFES), 28029 Madrid, Spain
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17
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Davis J, Umeh U, Saba R. Treatment of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19): A safety perspective. World J Pharmacol 2021; 10:1-32. [DOI: 10.5497/wjp.v10.i1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The goal of this review is to report a balanced perspective of current evidence for efficacy of treatments for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) against the historical safety of these treatments as of May 2021. We preselected therapies of interest for COVID-19 based on national guidelines and modified over time. We searched PubMed and Medline for these specific COVID-19 treatments and data related to their efficacy. We also searched for prior randomized controlled trials of each therapy to assess adverse effects, and we obtained the Food and Drug Administration Approval label for this information. Several drugs have been approved for the treatment of COVID-19, and many more are under study. This includes dexamethasone, remdesivir, hydroxychloroquine/chloroquine, lopinvir/ritonavir, interferon or interleukin inhibitors, convalescent plasma and several vitamins and minerals. The strongest evidence for benefit is mortality benefit with dexamethasone in patients with COVID-19 and hypoxemia, although there is a signal of harm if this is started too early. There are several other promising therapies, like interleukin inhibitors and ivermectin. Hydroxychloroquine/chloroquine, lopinvir/ritonavir, and convalescent plasma do not have enough evidence of benefit to outweigh the known risks of these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Davis
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Vituity, Wichita, KS 67214, United States
| | - Ugochukwu Umeh
- College of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin 20-093, Poland
| | - Rand Saba
- Department of Surgery, Ascension Providence Hospital, Southfield, MI 48075, United States
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18
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Jalal Z, Bakour M, Lyoussi B. Medicinal Plants and Zinc: Impact on COVID-19 Pandemic. ScientificWorldJournal 2021; 2021:9632034. [PMID: 34602868 PMCID: PMC8483924 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9632034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The world is currently grappling with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The infection can cause fever, a dry cough, fatigue, severe pneumonia, respiratory distress syndrome, and in some cases death. There is currently no effective antiviral SARS-CoV-2 drug. To reduce the number of infections and deaths, it is critical to focus on strengthening immunity. This review aims to conduct a comprehensive search on the previous studies using Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Medline, PubMed, and Scopus for the collection of research papers based on the role of zinc in the immune system, the antiviral activity of zinc, the effect of zinc supplementation in respiratory infections, the therapeutic approaches against viral infections based on medicinal plants, and the role of plants' bioactive molecules in fighting viral infections. In conclusion, we highlighted the pivotal role of zinc in antiviral immunity and we suggested the bioactive molecules derived from medicinal plants as a search matrix for the development of anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zineb Jalal
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health and Quality of Life (SNAMOPEQ). Faculty of Sciences Dhar El Mahraz, University Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fez, Morocco
| | - Meryem Bakour
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health and Quality of Life (SNAMOPEQ). Faculty of Sciences Dhar El Mahraz, University Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fez, Morocco
| | - Badiaa Lyoussi
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health and Quality of Life (SNAMOPEQ). Faculty of Sciences Dhar El Mahraz, University Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fez, Morocco
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19
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Salgo MP. COVID-19: Zinc and Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) Deficiencies as Determinants of Risk and Severity of Disease: A Narrative Review. Infect Dis Ther 2021; 10:1215-1225. [PMID: 34251655 PMCID: PMC8273847 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-021-00478-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of evidence supports the premise that deficiencies of zinc and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2, a zinc enzyme) determine severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). ACE2 is part of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and acts as a feedback control system moderating blood pressure, keeping blood pressure within normal limits. For a virus to infect a person, the virus has to get inside the person's cells. The virus that causes COVID-19 uses ACE2 to get into the cell. Think of this like an invader from outer space attacking your car by getting in through your cruise control; the RAS is like the cruise control of your car. What happens next depends on how robust your cruise control is. If your cruise control is young and healthy perhaps very little happens; your car may slow down or speed up a bit. But if your cruise control is in poor condition the attack might disrupt the entire speed control system; your car may brake suddenly or speed out of control and crash. Feedback control systems (natural or man-made) are designed to keep dynamic systems in control, but under certain situations can drive the system completely out of control. The RAS is composed of two feedback loops: the ACE loop provides amplification, increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines and blood pressure; the ACE2 loop provides fine control and mitigates the vasoconstrictive, pro-inflammatory, and thrombotic actions of the ACE loop. Usually, there is balance, but in the setting of COVID-19, underlying deficiencies of zinc and ACE2 can lead to an imbalance. Exacerbated by the severe downregulation of ACE2 seen with viral entry, a "tipping point" is reached with loss of control of the RAS system resulting in increased angiotensin II (Ang II) causing downstream vasoconstriction, inflammation, and thromboses. These, in turn, lead to complications often seen in "severe COVID-19" such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or cytokine storm, often seen in high-risk patients in the second week of illness. This model suggests that supplemental zinc could replenish zinc in ACE2, stabilize the ACE2 axis, and prevent disruption of the RAS. This would prevent the vasoconstrictive, inflammatory, and thrombotic actions of Ang II, thus preventing the severe COVID-19 complications which cause the high morbidity and mortality seen in high-risk patients with underlying zinc deficiency. Zinc supplements are available, easy to use, and relatively safe. Randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm safety and efficacy of zinc supplementation to decrease severity of and morality from COVID-19 in high-risk patients. Since replenishment of zinc and active ACE2 in patients in whom these are deficient may take weeks, supplementation in high-risk populations prior to COVID infection may be required. Such supplementation should not replace vaccination but may be useful in populations for whom vaccination is not available or for populations exposed to viral variants to which available vaccines have insufficient coverage.
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Abstract
The role of the immune system is to protect the individual against pathogenic organisms. Nutrition is one of multiple factors that determines the immune response and good nutrition is important in supporting the immune response. Immunity can be impaired in older people, particularly those who are frail, in those living with obesity, in those who are malnourished and in those with low intakes of micronutrients. The immune impairments associated with nutritional inadequacy increase susceptibility to infection and permit infections to become more severe, even fatal. The adverse impact of poor nutrition on the immune system, including its inflammatory component, may be one of the explanations for the higher risk of more severe outcomes from infection with SARS-CoV-2 seen in older people and in those living with obesity. Studies of individual micronutrients including vitamin D and zinc suggest roles in reducing severity of infection with SARS-CoV-2. Good nutrition is also important in promoting a diverse gut microbiota, which in turn supports the immune system. The importance of nutrition in supporting the immune response also applies to assuring robust responses to vaccination. There are many lessons from the study of nutrition and immunity that are relevant for the battle with SARS-CoV-2.
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21
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Carro B. SARS-CoV-2 mechanisms of action and impact on human organism, risk factors and potential treatments. An exhaustive survey. ALL LIFE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/26895293.2021.1977186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Belén Carro
- Department of Signal Theory and Communications, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
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22
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Nutrition and immunity: lessons for COVID-19. Eur J Clin Nutr 2021; 75:1309-1318. [PMID: 34163017 PMCID: PMC8220366 DOI: 10.1038/s41430-021-00949-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The role of the immune system is to protect the individual against pathogenic organisms. Nutrition is one of multiple factors that determines the immune response and good nutrition is important in supporting the immune response. Immunity can be impaired in older people, particularly those who are frail, in those living with obesity, in those who are malnourished and in those with low intakes of micronutrients. The immune impairments associated with nutritional inadequacy increase susceptibility to infection and permit infections to become more severe, even fatal. The adverse impact of poor nutrition on the immune system, including its inflammatory component, may be one of the explanations for the higher risk of more severe outcomes from infection with SARS-CoV-2 seen in older people and in those living with obesity. Studies of individual micronutrients including vitamin D and zinc suggest roles in reducing severity of infection with SARS-CoV-2. Good nutrition is also important in promoting a diverse gut microbiota, which in turn supports the immune system. The importance of nutrition in supporting the immune response also applies to assuring robust responses to vaccination. There are many lessons from the study of nutrition and immunity that are relevant for the battle with SARS-CoV-2.
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