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Donald J, Bilasy SE, Yang C, El-Shamy A. Exploring the Complexities of Long COVID. Viruses 2024; 16:1060. [PMID: 39066223 PMCID: PMC11281588 DOI: 10.3390/v16071060] [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: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Since the emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in 2019, nearly 700 million COVID-19 cases and 7 million deaths have been reported globally. Despite most individuals recovering within four weeks, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 7.5% to 41% develop post-acute infection syndrome (PAIS), known as 'Long COVID'. This review provides current statistics on Long COVID's prevalence, explores hypotheses concerning epidemiological factors, such as age, gender, comorbidities, initial COVID-19 severity, and vaccine interactions, and delves into potential mechanisms, including immune responses, viral persistence, and gut dysbiosis. Moreover, we conclude that women, advanced age, comorbidities, non-vaccination, and low socioeconomic status all appear to be risk factors. The reasons for these differences are still not fully understood and likely involve a complex relationship between social, genetic, hormonal, and other factors. Furthermore, individuals with Long COVID-19 seem more likely to endure economic hardship due to persistent symptoms. In summary, our findings further illustrate the multifaceted nature of Long COVID and underscore the importance of understanding the epidemiological factors and potential mechanisms needed to develop effective therapeutic strategies and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackson Donald
- College of Graduate Studies, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA; (J.D.); (C.Y.)
| | - Shymaa E. Bilasy
- College of Dental Medicine, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA;
| | - Catherine Yang
- College of Graduate Studies, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA; (J.D.); (C.Y.)
| | - Ahmed El-Shamy
- College of Graduate Studies, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA; (J.D.); (C.Y.)
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2
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Carvajal JJ, García-Castillo V, Cuellar SV, Campillay-Véliz CP, Salazar-Ardiles C, Avellaneda AM, Muñoz CA, Retamal-Díaz A, Bueno SM, González PA, Kalergis AM, Lay MK. New insights into the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1363572. [PMID: 38911850 PMCID: PMC11190347 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1363572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the respiratory distress condition known as COVID-19. This disease broadly affects several physiological systems, including the gastrointestinal, renal, and central nervous (CNS) systems, significantly influencing the patient's overall quality of life. Additionally, numerous risk factors have been suggested, including gender, body weight, age, metabolic status, renal health, preexisting cardiomyopathies, and inflammatory conditions. Despite advances in understanding the genome and pathophysiological ramifications of COVID-19, its precise origins remain elusive. SARS-CoV-2 interacts with a receptor-binding domain within angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). This receptor is expressed in various organs of different species, including humans, with different abundance. Although COVID-19 has multiorgan manifestations, the main pathologies occur in the lung, including pulmonary fibrosis, respiratory failure, pulmonary embolism, and secondary bacterial pneumonia. In the post-COVID-19 period, different sequelae may occur, which may have various causes, including the direct action of the virus, alteration of the immune response, and metabolic alterations during infection, among others. Recognizing the serious adverse health effects associated with COVID-19, it becomes imperative to comprehensively elucidate and discuss the existing evidence surrounding this viral infection, including those related to the pathophysiological effects of the disease and the subsequent consequences. This review aims to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the impact of COVID-19 and its long-term effects on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonatan J. Carvajal
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Valeria García-Castillo
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Shelsy V. Cuellar
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | | | - Camila Salazar-Ardiles
- Center for Research in Physiology and Altitude Medicine (FIMEDALT), Biomedical Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Andrea M. Avellaneda
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Santo Tomás, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Christian A. Muñoz
- Research Center in Immunology and Biomedical Biotechnology of Antofagasta (CIIBBA), University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Angello Retamal-Díaz
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Research Center in Immunology and Biomedical Biotechnology of Antofagasta (CIIBBA), University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Susan M. Bueno
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pablo A. González
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alexis M. Kalergis
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Departamento de Endocrinología, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Margarita K. Lay
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Research Center in Immunology and Biomedical Biotechnology of Antofagasta (CIIBBA), University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Marine Sciences and Biological Resources, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
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Battisti S, Pedone C, Tramontana F, Napoli N, Alhamar G, Russo E, Agnoletti V, Paolucci E, Galgani M, Giampalma E, Paviglianiti A, Strollo R. Abdominal adipose tissue distribution assessed by computed tomography and mortality in hospitalised patients with COVID-19: a retrospective longitudinal cohort study. Endocrine 2024; 83:597-603. [PMID: 37736820 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-023-03530-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Visceral adiposity has been associated with an increased risk of critical illness in COVID-19 patients. However, if it also associates to a poor survival is still not well established. The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between abdominal fat distribution and COVID-19 mortality. METHODS In this six-month longitudinal cohort study, abdominal visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissues (SAT) were measured by computed tomography in a cohort of 174 patients admitted to the emergency department with a diagnosis of COVID-19, during the first wave of pandemic. The primary exposure and outcome measures were VAT and SAT at hospital admission, and death at 30 and 180 days, respectively. RESULTS Overall survival was not different according to VAT (p = 0.94), SAT (p = 0.32) and VAT/SAT ratio (p = 0.64). However, patients in the lowest SAT quartile (thickness ≤ 11.25 mm) had a significantly reduced survival compared to those with thicker SAT (77 vs. 94% at day 30; 74 vs. 91% at day 180, p = 0.01). Similarly, a thinner SAT was associated with lower survival in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admitted patients, independently of sex or age (p = 0.02). The VAT/SAT ratio showed a non-linear increased risk of ICU admission, which plateaued out and tended for inversion at values greater than 1.9 (p = 0.001), although was not associated with increased mortality rate. CONCLUSIONS In our cohort, visceral adiposity did not increase mortality in patients with COVID-19, but low SAT may be associated with poor survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Battisti
- Radiology Department, AUSL Romagna M. Bufalini Hospital, Cesena, Italy
- Radiology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine - DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum-Università di Bologna, S.Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Pedone
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Research Unit of Geriatrics, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Operative Research Unit of Geriatrics, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Tramontana
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Research Unit of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Napoli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Research Unit of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Ghadeer Alhamar
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Research Unit of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuele Russo
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, AUSL Romagna, M.Bufalini Hospital, Cesena, Italy
| | - Vanni Agnoletti
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, AUSL Romagna, M.Bufalini Hospital, Cesena, Italy
| | - Elisa Paolucci
- Internal Medicine Unit, AUSL Romagna, M.Bufalini Hospital, Cesena, Italy
| | - Mario Galgani
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- Institute for Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology "G. Salvatore", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (C.N.R.), Naples, Italy
| | | | - Annalisa Paviglianiti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Research Unit of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
- Clinical Hematology Department, Institut Català d'Oncologia-Hospitalet, 08908, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), 08908, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rocky Strollo
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Rome, Italy.
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Gu J, Zhang J, Liu Q, Xu S. Neurological risks of COVID-19 in women: the complex immunology underpinning sex differences. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1281310. [PMID: 38035090 PMCID: PMC10685449 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1281310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has uncovered many mysteries about SARS-CoV-2, including its potential to trigger abnormal autoimmune responses. Emerging evidence suggests women may face higher risks from COVID-induced autoimmunity manifesting as persistent neurological symptoms. Elucidating the mechanisms underlying this female susceptibility is now imperative. We synthesize key insights from existing studies on how COVID-19 infection can lead to immune tolerance loss, enabling autoreactive antibodies and lymphocyte production. These antibodies and lymphocytes infiltrate the central nervous system. Female sex hormones like estrogen and X-chromosome mediated effects likely contribute to dysregulated humoral immunity and cytokine profiles among women, increasing their predisposition. COVID-19 may also disrupt the delicate immunological balance of the female microbiome. These perturbations precipitate damage to neural damage through mechanisms like demyelination, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration - consistent with the observed neurological sequelae in women. An intentional focus on elucidating sex differences in COVID-19 pathogenesis is now needed to inform prognosis assessments and tailored interventions for female patients. From clinical monitoring to evaluating emerging immunomodulatory therapies, a nuanced women-centered approach considering the hormonal status and immunobiology will be vital to ensure equitable outcomes. Overall, deeper insights into the apparent female specificity of COVID-induced autoimmunity will accelerate the development of solutions mitigating associated neurological harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jienan Gu
- Institute of Basic Theory for Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiale Zhang
- Institute of Basic Theory for Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qianhui Liu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shijie Xu
- Institute of Basic Theory for Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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Mitrović-Ajtić O, Đikić D, Subotički T, Bižić-Radulović S, Beleslin-Čokić B, Dragojević T, Živković E, Miljatović S, Vukotić M, Stanisavljević D, Santibanez J, Čokić VP. Sex Differences and Cytokine Profiles among Patients Hospitalized for COVID-19 and during Their Recovery: The Predominance of Adhesion Molecules in Females and Oxidative Stress in Males. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1560. [PMID: 37896963 PMCID: PMC10610714 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11101560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The severity and mortality of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are greater in males than in females, though the infection rate is the same in the two sexes. We investigated sex hormone differences associated with the hyperinflammatory immune response to SARS-CoV-2 on the basis of patients' cytokine profiles and vaccination statuses. Clinical and laboratory data of 117 patients with COVID-19 were collected to examine sex differences associated with oxidative stress markers, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), and plasma cytokine levels up to 5 months from hospital admission. The testosterone and free testosterone levels were low in male patients with COVID-19 and returned to normal values after recovery from the disease. The dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels were transiently reduced, while the sex hormone-binding globulin levels were decreased in post-COVID-19 male patients. The levels of the inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-10 appeared generally increased at diagnosis and decreased in post-COVID-19 patients. In females, the concentration of tumor necrosis factor-alpha was increased by four times at diagnosis. The levels of the coagulation markers intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and E-selectin were consistently upregulated in post-COVID-19 female patients, in contrast to those of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), P-selectin, and chemokine IL-8. DHT increased the levels of reactive oxygen species in the neutrophils of male patients, while estradiol decreased them in females. Markers for NET, such as circulating DNA and myeloperoxidase, were significantly more abundant in the patients' plasma. Sex hormones have a potential protective role during SARS-CoV-2 infection, which is weakened by impaired testosterone synthesis in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivera Mitrović-Ajtić
- Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, Dr. Subotica starijeg 4, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (O.M.-A.); (D.Đ.); (T.S.); (T.D.); (E.Ž.); (M.V.); (J.S.)
| | - Dragoslava Đikić
- Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, Dr. Subotica starijeg 4, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (O.M.-A.); (D.Đ.); (T.S.); (T.D.); (E.Ž.); (M.V.); (J.S.)
| | - Tijana Subotički
- Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, Dr. Subotica starijeg 4, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (O.M.-A.); (D.Đ.); (T.S.); (T.D.); (E.Ž.); (M.V.); (J.S.)
| | - Sandra Bižić-Radulović
- Clinic of Hematology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Dr. Koste Todorovica 2, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Bojana Beleslin-Čokić
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Dr. Subotica starijeg 13, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Teodora Dragojević
- Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, Dr. Subotica starijeg 4, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (O.M.-A.); (D.Đ.); (T.S.); (T.D.); (E.Ž.); (M.V.); (J.S.)
| | - Emilija Živković
- Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, Dr. Subotica starijeg 4, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (O.M.-A.); (D.Đ.); (T.S.); (T.D.); (E.Ž.); (M.V.); (J.S.)
| | - Sanja Miljatović
- Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Bulevar oslobođenja 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milica Vukotić
- Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, Dr. Subotica starijeg 4, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (O.M.-A.); (D.Đ.); (T.S.); (T.D.); (E.Ž.); (M.V.); (J.S.)
| | - Dejana Stanisavljević
- Institute for Medical Statistics and Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Juan Santibanez
- Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, Dr. Subotica starijeg 4, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (O.M.-A.); (D.Đ.); (T.S.); (T.D.); (E.Ž.); (M.V.); (J.S.)
- Centro Integrativo de Biología y Química Aplicada (CIBQA), Universidad Bernardo O’Higgins, Santiago 8370854, Chile
| | - Vladan P. Čokić
- Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, Dr. Subotica starijeg 4, 11129 Belgrade, Serbia; (O.M.-A.); (D.Đ.); (T.S.); (T.D.); (E.Ž.); (M.V.); (J.S.)
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Taylor M, Rayner JO. Immune Response to Chikungunya Virus: Sex as a Biological Variable and Implications for Natural Delivery via the Mosquito. Viruses 2023; 15:1869. [PMID: 37766276 PMCID: PMC10538149 DOI: 10.3390/v15091869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito-borne virus with significant public health implications around the world. Climate change, as well as rapid urbanization, threatens to expand the population range of Aedes vector mosquitoes globally, increasing CHIKV cases worldwide in return. Epidemiological data suggests a sex-dependent response to CHIKV infection. In this review, we draw attention to the importance of studying sex as a biological variable by introducing epidemiological studies from previous CHIKV outbreaks. While the female sex appears to be a risk factor for chronic CHIKV disease, the male sex has recently been suggested as a risk factor for CHIKV-associated death; however, the underlying mechanisms for this phenotype are unknown. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of including mosquito salivary components when studying the immune response to CHIKV. As with other vector-transmitted pathogens, CHIKV has evolved to use these salivary components to replicate more extensively in mammalian hosts; however, the response to natural transmission of CHIKV has not been fully elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jonathan O. Rayner
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Whiddon College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA;
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da Silva RC, Teixeira MP, de Paiva LS, Miranda-Alves L. Environmental Health and Toxicology: Immunomodulation Promoted by Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical Tributyltin. TOXICS 2023; 11:696. [PMID: 37624201 PMCID: PMC10458372 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11080696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Tributyltin (TBT) is an environmental contaminant present on all continents, including Antarctica, with a potent biocidal action. Its use began to be intensified during the 1960s. It was effectively banned in 2003 but remains in the environment to this day due to several factors that increase its half-life and its misuse despite the bans. In addition to the endocrine-disrupting effect of TBT, which may lead to imposex induction in some invertebrate species, there are several studies that demonstrate that TBT also has an immunotoxic effect. The immunotoxic effects that have been observed experimentally in vertebrates using in vitro and in vivo models involve different mechanisms; mainly, there are alterations in the expression and/or secretion of cytokines. In this review, we summarize and update the literature on the impacts of TBT on the immune system, and we discuss issues that still need to be explored to fill the knowledge gaps regarding the impact of this endocrine-disrupting chemical on immune system homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Correia da Silva
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental-LEEx, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (R.C.d.S.); (M.P.T.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Morfológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Mariana Pires Teixeira
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental-LEEx, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (R.C.d.S.); (M.P.T.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Endocrinologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Luciana Souza de Paiva
- Departamento de Imunobiologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói 24210-201, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói 24210-201, Brazil
| | - Leandro Miranda-Alves
- Laboratório de Endocrinologia Experimental-LEEx, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (R.C.d.S.); (M.P.T.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Morfológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Endocrinologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia e Química Medicinal, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
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Sama SR, Gore R, Bauer AZ, Garber L, Rosiello R, Sundaresan D, McDonald A, Kriebel D. Targeting patients for early COVID-19 therapy; Pre-infection metabolic dysfunction, polycystic ovary syndrome and risk of severe disease in patients under 65: A Massachusetts community-based observational study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287430. [PMID: 37319299 PMCID: PMC10270632 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The demographics of those developing severe coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outcomes are shifting to younger patients. In an observational study utilizing electronic health records from a Massachusetts group medical practice, we identified 5025 patients with confirmed COVID-19 from March 1 to December 18, 2020. Of these, 3870 were under 65 years of age. We investigated the hypothesis that pre-infection metabolic or immunologic dysregulation including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) increased risk of serious COVID-19 outcomes in patients under 65 years of age. MATERIALS AND METHODS We compared those with COVID-19 related hospitalization or mortality to all other COVID-19 patients, using a case control approach. Using logistic regression and propensity score modeling, we evaluated risk of developing severe COVID-19 outcomes (hospitalization or death) in those with pre-infection comorbidities, metabolic risk factors, or PCOS. RESULTS Overall, propensity score matched analyses demonstrated pre-infection elevated liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) >40, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) >40 and blood glucose ≥215 mg/dL were associated with more severe COVID-19 outcomes, OR = 1.74 (95% CI 1.31, 2.31); OR = 1.98 (95% CI 1.52, 2.57), and OR = 1.55 (95% CI 1.08, 2.23) respectively. Elevated hemoglobin A1C or blood glucose levels were even stronger risk factors for severe COVID-19 outcomes among those aged < 65, OR = 2.31 (95% CI 1.14, 4.66) and OR = 2.42 (95% CI 1.29, 4.56), respectively. In logistic regression models, women aged < 65 with PCOS demonstrated more than a four-fold increased risk of severe COVID-19, OR 4.64 (95% CI 1.98, 10.88). CONCLUSION Increased risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes in those < age 65 with pre-infection indicators of metabolic dysfunction heightens the importance of monitoring pre-infection indicators in younger patients for prevention and early treatment. The PCOS finding deserves further investigation. Meanwhile women who suffer from PCOS should be carefully evaluated and prioritized for earlier COVID-19 treatment and vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan R. Sama
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Reliant Medical Group, Inc., Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Gore
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Ann Z. Bauer
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Great Meadows Public Health Collaborative, Wayland, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Lawrence Garber
- Reliant Medical Group, Inc., Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Richard Rosiello
- Reliant Medical Group, Inc., Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Devi Sundaresan
- Reliant Medical Group, Inc., Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Anne McDonald
- Reliant Medical Group, Inc., Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - David Kriebel
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Aldali HJ, Aldali JA, Alotaibi BA, Alasiri GA, Alromih AM, Elsokkary EM, Aldali AZ, Almeziny A. Evaluating the Adverse Events Associated with Three Doses of the COVID-19 Vaccination in Adults in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020266. [PMID: 36851144 PMCID: PMC9959497 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020266] [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: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was one of the countries earliest affected by the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and had taken precautions including compulsory COVID-19 vaccination. Both the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine (Oxford AstraZeneca) and the BNT162b2 vaccine (Pfizer) were approved by the Saudi Ministry of Health, followed by mRNA-1273 (Moderna), all of which were used for population-wide vaccination. This study aimed to assess the short-term side effects following the COVID-19 vaccinations among participants who had received all three doses in the western region of Saudi Arabia. An online survey was distributed to the participants who received either BNT162b2, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, or mRNA-1273 vaccines, and the type of side effects and their severity were evaluated. Fatigue and headache, pain at the site of the injection and muscle pain were the most common side effects in all three doses. However, the severity depending on the type of vaccination was significant only for the first and second dose, but not the third dose. In contrast, there was a higher percentage of participants who encountered severe side effects from the third dose compared to the first and second. Nevertheless, the majority of participants described all three doses' side effects to be moderately severe. A future evaluation could be made to access the individual types of vaccination and compare between the side effects of the BNT162b2, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, and mRNA-1273 vaccines specifically for the booster dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamzah J. Aldali
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine, College of Biomedical Science, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Jehad A. Aldali
- 0921 Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh 13317, Saudi Arabia
| | - Badi A. Alotaibi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Collage of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11481, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh P.O. Box 3660, Saudi Arabia
| | - Glowi A. Alasiri
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine Organization Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh 13317, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aroob M. Alromih
- Medical School, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh 13317, Saudi Arabia
| | - Emadeldin M. Elsokkary
- Psychology, Organisation Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh 13317, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Z. Aldali
- Department of Rehabilitation Health Science—Physical Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11445, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Almeziny
- Medical School, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh 13317, Saudi Arabia
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Golding MA, Askin N, Batac ALR, Merrill KA, Abrams EM, Bégin P, Ben-Shoshan M, Ladouceur E, Roos LE, Protudjer V, Protudjer JLP. vACcine COnfidence amongst those living with alleRgy during the COVID pandemic (ACCORD): a scoping review protocol. ALLERGY, ASTHMA & CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 18:83. [PMID: 36117177 PMCID: PMC9482742 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-022-00723-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Reports of allergic reactions to the COVID-19 vaccines have been documented, which may also contribute to hesitancy. Despite the low likelihood that the COVID-19 vaccine will trigger an allergic reaction, we and others have reported that families with allergy remain vaccine hesitant due to concerns of COVID-19-vaccine-triggered anaphylaxis. Objective To present our scoping review protocol, that will inform a forthcoming living scoping review in which we will investigate the peer-reviewed and grey literature on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and allergic disease and/or allergic reactions following a COVID-19 vaccine. Methods Informed by Arksey and O’Malley framework for methodological review, we have developed a search strategy with content and methodological experts, and which has undergone Peer Review of Electronic Search Strategies review. A search of four scientific databases, as well as gray literature, will be performed without restriction to articles by type of COVID-19 vaccine, or country of study, and will include publications in the ten languages our team can handle. Bi-monthly search alerts based on the search strategy will be generated. Results The first search will result in a stand alone peer reviewed scoping review. Bi-monthly updates will be posted on a pre-print server. Depending on the volume of literature, these updates will be synthesized and submitted for peer-review at 6 and/or 12 months. Conclusion COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy amongst individuals with allergy persists, despite very low risk of serious adverse reactions. Our living scoping review, which includes multiple forms of knowledge translation, will be a rigorous way to address hesitancy.
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11
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Premenopausal and postmenopausal women during the COVID-19 pandemic. PRZEGLAD MENOPAUZALNY = MENOPAUSE REVIEW 2022; 21:200-206. [PMID: 36254124 PMCID: PMC9551364 DOI: 10.5114/pm.2022.118695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The current global COVID-19 mortality rate is estimated to be around 3.4%; however, it is dependent on age, sex, and comorbidities. Epidemiological evidence shows gender disparities in COVID-19 severity and fatality, with non-menopausal females having milder severity and better outcomes than age-matched males. However, the difference vanishes when comparing postmenopausal women with age-matched men. It has been suggested that, to some extent, this is due to the protective role of female hormones, such as anti-Müllerian hormone and oestradiol (E2), in non-menopausal women. Oestrogens have been hypothesized to be crucial in modulating viral infection and the progression of the disease via an action on immune/inflammatory responses and angiotensin-converting enzyme type 2 expression. Hence, the most likely explanation is that, because the levels of oestrogen in females after menopause decrease, oestrogen no longer offers a beneficial effect as seen in younger females. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the serious negative effects arising from the state of E2 deficiency. Therefore, hormone replacement therapy gains further support as the damaging effect of the decline in ovarian function affects many biological systems, and recently with the COVID-19 pandemic, oestrogen's vital role within the immune system has become quite clear. However, additional clinical investigations regarding hormone replacement therapy are urgently needed to further verify the protective and therapeutic effects of E2 on menopausal women with COVID-19.
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COVID-19 Severity and Androgen Receptor Polymorphism. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11070974. [PMID: 36101355 PMCID: PMC9312131 DOI: 10.3390/biology11070974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the most severe form of the disease was most often seen in male patients. The aim of this study was to identify any male predispositions that could be used to predict the outcome of the disease and enable early intervention. We investigated CAG polymorphism in the androgen receptor gene and serum levels of testosterone and LH, which were considered as probably responsible for this predisposition. The study involved 142 patients who had recovered from COVID-19 at least three months previously and were classified according to their disease severity using the World Health Organization (WHO) classification. We observed a significant increase in the number of CAG repeats with increasing disease severity: the percentage of patients with more than 23 repeats increased two-fold from Grade I to Grade IV. Furthermore, testosterone levels were significantly lower in patients with severe disease. Reduced androgenic signaling could predispose men to a more severe form: low testosterone levels and a reduced androgen receptor activity (CAG > 23) expose the host to an excessive inflammatory response, leading downstream to the multi-organ damage seen in severe COVID-19.
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The Covid-19 pandemic, an Environmental Neurology perspective. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2022; 178:499-511. [PMID: 35568518 PMCID: PMC8938187 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2022.02.455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Neurologists have a particular interest in SARS-CoV-2 because the nervous system is a major participant in COVID-19, both in its acute phase and in its persistent post-COVID phase. The global spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection has revealed most of the challenges and risk factors that humanity will face in the future. We review from an environmental neurology perspective some characteristics that have underpinned the pandemic. We consider the agent, SARS-CoV-2, the spread of SARS-CoV-2 as influenced by environmental factors, its impact on the brain and some containment measures on brain health. Several questions remain, including the differential clinical impact of variants, the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on sleep and wakefulness, and the neurological components of Long-COVID syndrome. We touch on the role of national leaders and public health policies that have underpinned management of the COVID-19 pandemic. Increased awareness, anticipation and preparedness are needed to address comparable future challenges.
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