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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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Herbert C, Manabe YC, Filippaios A, Lin H, Wang B, Achenbach C, Kheterpal V, Hartin P, Suvarna T, Harman E, Stamegna P, Rao LV, Hafer N, Broach J, Luzuriaga K, Fitzgerald KA, McManus DD, Soni A. Differential Viral Dynamics by Sex and Body Mass Index During Acute SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Results From a Longitudinal Cohort Study. Clin Infect Dis 2024; 78:1185-1193. [PMID: 37972270 PMCID: PMC11093673 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is evidence of an association of severe coroanavirus disease (COVID-19) outcomes with increased body mass index (BMI) and male sex. However, few studies have examined the interaction between sex and BMI on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) viral dynamics. METHODS Participants conducted RT-PCR testing every 24-48 hours over a 15-day period. Sex and BMI were self-reported, and Ct values from E-gene were used to quantify viral load. Three distinct outcomes were examined using mixed-effects generalized linear models, linear models, and logistic models, respectively: all Ct values (model 1), nadir Ct value (model 2), and strongly detectable infection (at least 1 Ct value ≤28 during their infection) (model 3). An interaction term between BMI and sex was included, and inverse logit transformations were applied to quantify the differences by BMI and sex using marginal predictions. RESULTS In total, 7988 participants enrolled in this study and 439 participants (model 1) and 309 (models 2 and 3) were eligible for these analyses. Among males, increasing BMI was associated with lower Ct values in a dose-response fashion. For participants with BMIs greater than 29 kg/m2, males had significantly lower Ct values and nadir Ct values than females. In total, 67.8% of males and 55.3% of females recorded a strongly detectable infection; increasing proportions of men had Ct values <28 with BMIs of 35 and 40 kg/m2. CONCLUSIONS We observed sex-based dimorphism in relation to BMI and COVID-19 viral load. Further investigation is needed to determine the cause, clinical impact, and transmission implications of this sex-differential effect of BMI on viral load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly Herbert
- Program in Digital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- UMass Center for Clinical and Translational Science, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yukari C Manabe
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andreas Filippaios
- Program in Digital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Honghuang Lin
- Program in Digital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Biqi Wang
- Program in Digital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Chad Achenbach
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Havey Institute for Global Health, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Paul Hartin
- Program in Digital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Pamela Stamegna
- Program in Digital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Nathaniel Hafer
- UMass Center for Clinical and Translational Science, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - John Broach
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katherine Luzuriaga
- UMass Center for Clinical and Translational Science, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katherine A Fitzgerald
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David D McManus
- Program in Digital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Apurv Soni
- Program in Digital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- UMass Center for Clinical and Translational Science, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Health System Science, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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3
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Binici B, Rattray Z, Schroeder A, Perrie Y. The Role of Biological Sex in Pre-Clinical (Mouse) mRNA Vaccine Studies. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:282. [PMID: 38543916 PMCID: PMC10975141 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12030282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, we consider the influence of biological sex-specific immune responses on the assessment of mRNA vaccines in pre-clinical murine studies. Recognising the established disparities in immune function attributed to genetic and hormonal differences between individuals of different biological sexes, we compared the mRNA expression and immune responses in mice of both biological sexes after intramuscular injection with mRNA incorporated within lipid nanoparticles. Regarding mRNA expression, no significant difference in protein (luciferase) expression at the injection site was observed between female and male mice following intramuscular administration; however, we found that female BALB/c mice exhibit significantly greater total IgG responses across the concentration range of mRNA lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) in comparison to their male counterparts. This study not only contributes to the scientific understanding of mRNA vaccine evaluation but also emphasizes the importance of considering biological sex in vaccine study designs during pre-clinical evaluation in murine studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burcu Binici
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK; (B.B.); (Z.R.)
| | - Zahra Rattray
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK; (B.B.); (Z.R.)
| | - Avi Schroeder
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel;
| | - Yvonne Perrie
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK; (B.B.); (Z.R.)
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Dunstan IK, McLeod R, Radford-Smith DE, Xiong W, Pate T, Probert F, Anthony DC. Unique pathways downstream of TLR-4 and TLR-7 activation: sex-dependent behavioural, cytokine, and metabolic consequences. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1345441. [PMID: 38414751 PMCID: PMC10896997 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1345441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Post-infection syndromes are characterised by fatigue, muscle pain, anhedonia, and cognitive impairment; mechanistic studies exploring these syndromes have focussed on pathways downstream of Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 activation. Here, we investigated the mechanistic interplay between behaviour, metabolism, and inflammation downstream of TLR-7 activation compared to TLR-4 activation in male and female CD1 mice. Methods Animals received either a TLR-4 (LPS; 0.83 mg/kg) or TLR-7 (R848, 5 mg/kg) agonist, or saline, and behaviour was analysed in an Open Field (OF) at 24 h (n = 20/group). Plasma, liver, and prefrontal cortex (PFC) were collected for gene expression analysis at 24 h and 1H-NMR metabolomics. Results TLR-4 and TLR-7 activation decreased distance travelled and rearing in the OF, but activation of each receptor induced distinct cytokine responses and metabolome profiles. LPS increased IL-1β expression and CXCL1 in the PFC, but TLR7 activation did not and strongly induced PFC CXCL10 expression. Thus, TLR7 induced sickness behaviour is independent of IL-1β expression. In both cases, the behavioural response to TLR activation was sexually dimorphic: females were more resilient. However, dissociation was observed between the resilient female mice behaviour and the levels of gene cytokine expression, which was, in general, higher in the female mice. However, the metabolic shifts induced by immune activation were better correlated with the sex-dependent behavioural dimorphisms; increased levels of antioxidant potential in the female brain are intrinsic male/female metabolome differences. A common feature of both TLR4 and TLR7 activation was an increase in N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) in the PFC, which is likely be an allostatic response to the challenges as sickness behaviour is inversely correlated with NAA levels. Discussion The results highlight how the cytokine profile induced by one PAMP cannot be extrapolated to another, but they do reveal how the manipulation of the conserved metabolome response might afford a more generic approach to the treatment of post-infection syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isobel K. Dunstan
- Medical Sciences Division, Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Chemistry, Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ross McLeod
- Medical Sciences Division, Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Chemistry, Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel E. Radford-Smith
- Medical Sciences Division, Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Wenzheng Xiong
- Medical Sciences Division, Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Chemistry, Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Trinity Pate
- Medical Sciences Division, Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Fay Probert
- Medical Sciences Division, Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Chemistry, Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel C. Anthony
- Medical Sciences Division, Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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5
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Bhattacharya S, Sadhukhan D, Saraswathy R. Role of sex in immune response and epigenetic mechanisms. Epigenetics Chromatin 2024; 17:1. [PMID: 38247002 PMCID: PMC10802034 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-024-00525-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The functioning of the human immune system is highly dependent on the sex of the individual, which comes by virtue of sex chromosomes and hormonal differences. Epigenetic mechanisms such as X chromosome inactivation, mosaicism, skewing, and dimorphism in X chromosome genes and Y chromosome regulatory genes create a sex-based variance in the immune response between males and females. This leads to differential susceptibility in immune-related disorders like infections, autoimmunity, and malignancies. Various naturally available immunomodulators are also available which target immune pathways containing X chromosome genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sombodhi Bhattacharya
- Biomedical Genetics Research Lab, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India
| | - Debasmita Sadhukhan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India
| | - Radha Saraswathy
- Biomedical Genetics Research Lab, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India.
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Said EA, Al-Rubkhi A, Jaju S, Koh CY, Al-Balushi MS, Al-Naamani K, Al-Sinani S, Al-Busaidi JZ, Al-Jabri AA. Association of the Magnitude of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Side Effects with Sex, Allergy History, Chronic Diseases, Medication Intake, and SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:104. [PMID: 38276676 PMCID: PMC10820381 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12010104] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaccination provides the best protection against the increasing infections of SARS-CoV-2. The magnitude and type of anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine side effects (SEs) depend on parameters that are not fully understood. In this cross-sectional study, the associations between different anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine SEs and age, sex, the presence of chronic diseases, medication intake, history of allergies, and infections with SARS-CoV-2 were investigated. Our survey used the Google platform and had 866 participants, contacted through e-mails, social media and chain referral sampling (margin of error ≈ 4.38%, 99% confidence). More than 99% of the participants received the BNT162b2 and ChAdOx1-S vaccines. Being female, having chronic diseases, taking medicines routinely and the presence of a SARS-CoV-2 infection (p < 0.05) were associated with strong SEs after the BNT162b2 vaccine second dose. Having a history of allergies and a female sex (p < 0.01) were associated with strong SEs after the ChAdOx1-S vaccine second dose. Furthermore, the results reveal, for the first time, the associations between having a history of allergies, chronic diseases, medication usage, and SEs of a strong magnitude for the BNT162b2 and ChAdOx1-S vaccines. Additionally, this study supports the association of the female sex and infection with SARS-CoV-2 with an increased potential of developing stronger SEs with certain anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias A. Said
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, P.O. Box 35, Muscat 123, Oman; (A.A.-R.)
| | - Afnan Al-Rubkhi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, P.O. Box 35, Muscat 123, Oman; (A.A.-R.)
| | - Sanjay Jaju
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, P.O. Box 35, Muscat 123, Oman;
| | - Crystal Y. Koh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, P.O. Box 35, Muscat 123, Oman; (A.A.-R.)
| | - Mohammed S. Al-Balushi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, P.O. Box 35, Muscat 123, Oman; (A.A.-R.)
| | - Khalid Al-Naamani
- Department of Medicine, Armed Forces Hospital, P.O. Box 726, Muscat 111, Oman
| | - Siham Al-Sinani
- Oman Medical Specialty Board, P.O. Box 1948, Muscat 130, Oman
| | - Juma Z. Al-Busaidi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, P.O. Box 35, Muscat 123, Oman; (A.A.-R.)
| | - Ali A. Al-Jabri
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, P.O. Box 35, Muscat 123, Oman; (A.A.-R.)
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Pujantell M, Skenteris NT, Claussen JM, Grünhagel B, Thiele RJ, Altfeld M. Sex-dependent differences in type I IFN-induced natural killer cell activation. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1277967. [PMID: 38162640 PMCID: PMC10757368 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1277967] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are important antiviral effector cells and also involved in tumor clearance. NK cells express IFNAR, rendering them responsive to Type I IFNs. To evaluate Type I IFN-mediated modulation of NK cell functions, individual Type I IFNs subtypes were assessed for their ability to activate NK cells. Different Type I IFN subtypes displayed a broad range in the capacity to induce and modulate NK cell activation and degranulation, measured by CD69 and CD107a expression in response to leukemia cell line K562. When including biological sex as a variable in the analysis, transwell co-cultures of NK cells with either male- or female-derived PBMCs or pDCs stimulated with the TLR7/8 agonist CL097 showed that NK cells were more activated by CL097-stimulated cells derived from females. These sex-specific differences were linked to higher CL097-induced IFNα production by pDCs derived from females, indicating an extrinsic sex-specific effect of Type I IFNs on NK cell function. Interestingly, in addition to the extrinsic effect, we also observed NK cell-intrinsic sex differences, as female NK cells displayed higher activation levels after IFNα-stimulation and after co-culture with CL097-stimulated pDCs, suggesting higher activation of IFNα-signaling transduction in female NK cells. Taken together, the results from these studies identify both extrinsic and intrinsic sex-specific differences in Type I IFN-dependent NK cell functions, contributing to a better understanding of sex-specific differences in innate immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pujantell
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- Department Virus Immunology, Leibniz Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Benjamin Grünhagel
- Department Virus Immunology, Leibniz Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Rebecca-Jo Thiele
- Department Virus Immunology, Leibniz Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marcus Altfeld
- Institute of Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- Department Virus Immunology, Leibniz Institute of Virology (LIV), Hamburg, Germany
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Kabbej N, Ashby FJ, Riva A, Gamlin PD, Mandel RJ, Kunta A, Rouse CJ, Heldermon CD. Sex differences in brain transcriptomes of juvenile Cynomolgus macaques. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3422091. [PMID: 38045237 PMCID: PMC10690328 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3422091/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Background: Behavioral, social, and physical characteristics are posited to distinguish the sexes, yet research on transcription-level sexual differences in the brain is limited. Here, we investigated sexually divergent brain transcriptomics in prepubertal cynomolgus macaques, a commonly used surrogate species to humans. Methods: A transcriptomic profile using RNA sequencing was generated for the temporal lobe, ventral midbrain, and cerebellum of 3 female and 3 male cynomolgus macaques previously treated with an Adeno-associated virus vector mix. Statistical analyses to determine differentially expressed protein-coding genes in all three lobes were conducted using DeSeq2 with a false discovery rate corrected P value of .05. Results: We identified target genes in the temporal lobe, ventral midbrain, and cerebellum with functions in translation, immunity, behavior, and neurological disorders that exhibited statistically significant sexually divergent expression. Conclusions: We provide potential mechanistic insights to the epidemiological differences observed between the sexes with regards to mental health and infectious diseases, such as COVID19. Our results provide pre-pubertal information on sexual differences in non-human primate brain transcriptomics and may provide insight to health disparities between the biological sexes in humans.
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Taks EJ, Moorlag SJ, Föhse K, Simonetti E, van der Gaast-de Jongh CE, van Werkhoven CH, Bonten MJ, Oever JT, de Jonge MI, van de Wijgert JH, Netea MG. The impact of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccination on antibody response after COVID-19 vaccination. iScience 2023; 26:108062. [PMID: 37860692 PMCID: PMC10583058 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Earlier studies showed that BCG vaccination improves antibody responses of subsequent vaccinations. Similarly, in older volunteers we found an increased IgG receptor-binding domain (RBD) concentration after SARS-CoV-2 infection if they were recently vaccinated with BCG. This study aims to assess the effect of BCG on the serum antibody concentrations induced by COVID-19 vaccination in a population of adults older than 60 years. Serum was collected from 1,555 participants of the BCG-CORONA-ELDERLY trial a year after BCG or placebo, and we analyzed the anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody concentrations using a fluorescent-microsphere-based multiplex immunoassay. Individuals who received the full primary COVID-19 vaccination series before serum collection and did not test positive for SARS-CoV-2 between inclusion and serum collection were included in analyses (n = 945). We found that BCG vaccination before first COVID-19 vaccine (median 347 days [IQR 329-359]) did not significantly impact the IgG RBD concentration after COVID-19 vaccination in an older European population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther J.M. Taks
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Simone J.C.F.M. Moorlag
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Konstantin Föhse
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Elles Simonetti
- Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Christa E. van der Gaast-de Jongh
- Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Cornelis H. van Werkhoven
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Marc J.M. Bonten
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jaap ten Oever
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Marien I. de Jonge
- Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Mihai G. Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department for Immunology and Metabolism, Life and Medical Sciences Institute (LIMES), University of Bonn, Germany
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10
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Crawford JD, Wang H, Trejo-Zambrano D, Cimbro R, Talbot CC, Thomas MA, Curran AM, Girgis AA, Schroeder JT, Fava A, Goldman DW, Petri M, Rosen A, Antiochos B, Darrah E. The XIST lncRNA is a sex-specific reservoir of TLR7 ligands in SLE. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e169344. [PMID: 37733447 PMCID: PMC10634230 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.169344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease with a dramatic sex bias, affecting 9 times more women than men. Activation of Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) by self-RNA is a central pathogenic process leading to aberrant production of type I interferon (IFN) in SLE, but the specific RNA molecules that serve as TLR7 ligands have not been defined. By leveraging gene expression data and the known sequence specificity of TLR7, we identified the female-specific X-inactive specific transcript (XIST) long noncoding RNA as a uniquely rich source of TLR7 ligands in SLE. XIST RNA stimulated IFN-α production by plasmacytoid DCs in a TLR7-dependent manner, and deletion of XIST diminished the ability of whole cellular RNA to activate TLR7. XIST levels were elevated in blood leukocytes from women with SLE compared with controls, correlated positively with disease activity and the IFN signature, and were enriched in extracellular vesicles released from dying cells in vitro. Importantly, XIST was not IFN inducible, suggesting that XIST is a driver, rather than a consequence, of IFN in SLE. Overall, our work elucidated a role for XIST RNA as a female sex-specific danger signal underlying the sex bias in SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hong Wang
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine
| | | | | | - C. Conover Talbot
- The Single Cell and Transcriptomics Core, Institute for Basic Biomedical Sciences; and
| | | | | | | | - John T. Schroeder
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andrea Fava
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine
| | | | | | - Antony Rosen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine
| | | | - Erika Darrah
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine
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11
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Abelman RA, Fitzpatrick J, Zawedde J, Sanyu I, Byanyima P, Kaswabuli S, Musisi E, Hsieh J, Gardner K, Zhang M, Byanova KL, Sessolo A, Hunt PW, Lalitha R, Davis JL, Crothers K, Worodria W, Huang L. Sex modifies the risk of HIV-associated obstructive lung disease in Ugandans postpneumonia. AIDS 2023; 37:1683-1692. [PMID: 37352494 PMCID: PMC10527596 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Spirometric abnormalities are frequent, and obstructive lung disease (OLD) is a common comorbidity among people with HIV (PWH). HIV increases the risk of many comorbidities to a greater degree in women than in men. Few studies have evaluated whether sex modifies the HIV-associated risk of OLD. DESIGN AND METHODS To evaluate the associations between sex and HIV with abnormal lung function, women and men with and without HIV underwent spirometric testing after completing therapy for pneumonia, including tuberculosis (TB), in Kampala, Uganda. OLD was defined as a postbronchodilator forced expiratory volume in the first second to forced vital capacity (FEV 1 /FVC) ratio less than 0.70. Associations between sex, HIV, and lung function were evaluated using multivariable regression models including sex-by-HIV interaction terms after adjusting for age, BMI, smoking status, and TB status. RESULTS Among 348 participants, 147 (42%) were women and 135 (39%) were HIV-positive. Sixteen (11%) women and 23 men (11%) had OLD. The HIV-sex interaction was significant for obstructive lung disease ( P = 0.04). In the adjusted stratified analysis, women with HIV had 3.44 (95% CI 1.11-12.0; P = 0.04) increased odds of having OLD compared with men with HIV. Women without HIV did not have increased odds of having OLD compared with men without HIV. CONCLUSION HIV appears to increase the risk of OLD to a greater degree in women than in men in an urban Ugandan setting. The mechanistic explanation for this interaction by sex remains unclear and warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A Abelman
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jessica Fitzpatrick
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Ingvar Sanyu
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Emmanuel Musisi
- Division of Infection and Global Health, School of Medicine, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Jenny Hsieh
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergy and Sleep Medicine
| | - Kendall Gardner
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Michelle Zhang
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Abdul Sessolo
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peter W Hunt
- Division of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Rejani Lalitha
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - J Lucian Davis
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine Section, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kristina Crothers
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep, Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Healthcare System and University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - William Worodria
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mulago Hospital and Complex, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Laurence Huang
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergy and Sleep Medicine
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12
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Kal M, Płatkowska-Adamska B, Zarębska-Michaluk D, Rzymski P. Reduced Vessel Density and Enlarged Foveal Avascular Zone in the Macula as a Result of Systemic Hypoxia Caused by SARS-CoV-2 Infection. J Pers Med 2023; 13:926. [PMID: 37373915 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13060926] [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: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection with SARS-CoV-2 can lead to various long-term consequences, including those of an ophthalmic nature. This paper reviews the results of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) performed among COVID-19 patients. The review included papers evaluating short- and long-term outcomes following the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Some differentiated the obtained retinal and choroidal vascularization parameters according to gender. Following COVID-19, patients reveal changes in retinal and choroidal vascular parameters based on OCTA, such as reduced vascular density and an increased foveal avascular zone, which can persist for several months. Routine ophthalmic follow-up with OCTA should be considered in patients after SARS-CoV-2 infection to assess the effects of inflammation and systemic hypoxia in COVID-19. Further research is needed to understand whether infection with particular viral variants/subvariants may vary in the risk of effects on retinal and choroidal vascularization and whether and to what extent these risks may also differ in relation to reinfected and vaccinated individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Kal
- Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
- Ophthalmic Clinic, Voivodeship Hospital, 25-736 Kielce, Poland
| | | | - Dorota Zarębska-Michaluk
- Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
- Department of Infectious Disease, Provincial Hospital, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
| | - Piotr Rzymski
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
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13
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Quiros-Roldan E, Sottini A, Signorini SG, Serana F, Tiecco G, Imberti L. Autoantibodies to Interferons in Infectious Diseases. Viruses 2023; 15:v15051215. [PMID: 37243300 DOI: 10.3390/v15051215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-cytokine autoantibodies and, in particular, anti-type I interferons are increasingly described in association with immunodeficient, autoimmune, and immune-dysregulated conditions. Their presence in otherwise healthy individuals may result in a phenotype characterized by a predisposition to infections with several agents. For instance, anti-type I interferon autoantibodies are implicated in Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19) pathogenesis and found preferentially in patients with critical disease. However, autoantibodies were also described in the serum of patients with viral, bacterial, and fungal infections not associated with COVID-19. In this review, we provide an overview of anti-cytokine autoantibodies identified to date and their clinical associations; we also discuss whether they can act as enemies or friends, i.e., are capable of acting in a beneficial or harmful way, and if they may be linked to gender or immunosenescence. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the production of autoantibodies could improve the approach to treating some infections, focusing not only on pathogens, but also on the possibility of a low degree of autoimmunity in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Quiros-Roldan
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia and University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Sottini
- Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Federico Serana
- Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Giorgio Tiecco
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia and University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Luisa Imberti
- Section of Microbiology, University of Brescia, P. le Spedali Civili, 1, 25123 Brescia, Italy
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14
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Abstract
The current epidemic of corona virus disease (COVID-19) has resulted in an immense health burden that became the third leading cause of death and potentially contributed to a decline in life expectancy in the United States. The severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2 binds to the surface-bound peptidase angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2, EC 3.4.17.23) leading to tissue infection and viral replication. ACE2 is an important enzymatic component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) expressed in the lung and other organs. The peptidase regulates the levels of the peptide hormones Ang II and Ang-(1-7), which have distinct and opposing actions to one another, as well as other cardiovascular peptides. A potential consequence of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2 infection is reduced ACE2 activity by internalization of the viral-ACE2 complex and subsequent activation of the RAS (higher ratio of Ang II:Ang-[1-7]) that may exacerbate the acute inflammatory events in COVID-19 patients and possibly contribute to the effects of long COVID-19. Moreover, COVID-19 patients present with an array of autoantibodies to various components of the RAS including the peptide Ang II, the enzyme ACE2, and the AT1 AT2 and Mas receptors. Greater disease severity is also evident in male COVID-19 patients, which may reflect underlying sex differences in the regulation of the 2 distinct functional arms of the RAS. The current review provides a critical evaluation of the evidence for an activated RAS in COVID-19 subjects and whether this system contributes to the greater severity of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2 infection in males as compared with females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark C. Chappell
- Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
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15
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Mantovani S, Oliviero B, Varchetta S, Renieri A, Mondelli MU. TLRs: Innate Immune Sentries against SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098065. [PMID: 37175768 PMCID: PMC10178469 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been responsible for a devastating pandemic since March 2020. Toll-like receptors (TLRs), crucial components in the initiation of innate immune responses to different pathogens, trigger the downstream production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, interferons, and other mediators. It has been demonstrated that they contribute to the dysregulated immune response observed in patients with severe COVID-19. TLR2, TLR3, TLR4 and TLR7 have been associated with COVID-19 severity. Here, we review the role of TLRs in the etiology and pathogenesis of COVID-19, including TLR7 and TLR3 rare variants, the L412F polymorphism in TLR3 that negatively regulates anti-SARS-CoV-2 immune responses, the TLR3-related cellular senescence, the interaction of TLR2 and TLR4 with SARS-CoV-2 proteins and implication of TLR2 in NET formation by SARS-CoV-2. The activation of TLRs contributes to viral clearance and disease resolution. However, TLRs may represent a double-edged sword which may elicit dysregulated immune signaling, leading to the production of proinflammatory mediators, resulting in severe disease. TLR-dependent excessive inflammation and TLR-dependent antiviral response may tip the balance towards the former or the latter, altering the equilibrium that drives the severity of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Mantovani
- Department of Research, Division of Clinical Immunology-Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Barbara Oliviero
- Department of Research, Division of Clinical Immunology-Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefania Varchetta
- Department of Research, Division of Clinical Immunology-Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Renieri
- Medical Genetics, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Med Biotech Hub and Competence Center, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Genetica Medica, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Mario U Mondelli
- Department of Research, Division of Clinical Immunology-Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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16
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de Castro MV, Silva MVR, Oliveira LDM, Gozzi-Silva SC, Naslavsky MS, Scliar MO, Magalhães ML, da Rocha KM, Nunes K, Castelli EC, Magawa JY, Santos KS, Cunha-Neto E, Sato MN, Zatz M. Immunological evaluation of young unvaccinated patients with Turner syndrome after COVID-19. Int J Infect Dis 2023; 129:207-215. [PMID: 36758851 PMCID: PMC9905041 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2023.01.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The X-chromosome contains the largest number of immune-related genes, which play a major role in COVID-19 symptomatology and susceptibility. Here, we had a unique opportunity to investigate, for the first time, COVID-19 outcomes in six unvaccinated young Brazilian patients with Turner syndrome (TS; 45, X0), including one case of critical illness in a child aged 10 years, to evaluate their immune response according to their genetic profile. METHODS A serological analysis of humoral immune response against SARS-CoV-2, phenotypic characterization of antiviral responses in peripheral blood mononuclear cells after stimuli, and the production of cytotoxic cytokines of T lymphocytes and natural killer cells were performed in blood samples collected from the patients with TS during the convalescence period. Whole exome sequencing was also performed. RESULTS Our volunteers with TS showed a delayed or insufficient humoral immune response to SARS-CoV-2 (particularly immunoglobulin G) and a decrease in interferon-γ production by cluster of differentiation (CD)4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes after stimulation with toll-like receptors 7/8 agonists. In contrast, we observed a higher cytotoxic activity in the volunteers with TS than the volunteers without TS after phorbol myristate acetate/ionomycin stimulation, particularly granzyme B and perforin by CD8+ and natural killer cells. Interestingly, two volunteers with TS carry rare genetic variants in genes that regulate type I and III interferon immunity. CONCLUSION Following previous reports in the literature for other conditions, our data showed that patients with TS may have an impaired immune response against SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, other medical conditions associated with TS could make them more vulnerable to COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateus V de Castro
- Human Genome and Stem Cell Research Center, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Monize V R Silva
- Human Genome and Stem Cell Research Center, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luana de M Oliveira
- Laboratório de Investigação em Dermatologia e Imunodeficiências, LIM 56, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil; Departamento de Dermatologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sarah C Gozzi-Silva
- Laboratório de Investigação em Dermatologia e Imunodeficiências, LIM 56, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil; Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Michel S Naslavsky
- Human Genome and Stem Cell Research Center, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Biosciences Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marilia O Scliar
- Human Genome and Stem Cell Research Center, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Biosciences Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Monize L Magalhães
- Human Genome and Stem Cell Research Center, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Biosciences Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Katia M da Rocha
- Human Genome and Stem Cell Research Center, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Biosciences Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kelly Nunes
- Human Genome and Stem Cell Research Center, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Biosciences Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Erick C Castelli
- School of Medicine, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, Brasil
| | - Jhosiene Y Magawa
- Laboratório de Imunologia, Instituto do Coração (InCor), LIM19, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil; Instituto de Investigação em Imunologia - Instituto Nacional de Ciências e Tecnologia-iii-INCT, São Paulo, Brazil; Departamento de Clínica Médica, Disciplina de Alergia e Imunologia Clínica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Keity S Santos
- Laboratório de Imunologia, Instituto do Coração (InCor), LIM19, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil; Instituto de Investigação em Imunologia - Instituto Nacional de Ciências e Tecnologia-iii-INCT, São Paulo, Brazil; Departamento de Clínica Médica, Disciplina de Alergia e Imunologia Clínica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Edecio Cunha-Neto
- Instituto de Investigação em Imunologia - Instituto Nacional de Ciências e Tecnologia-iii-INCT, São Paulo, Brazil; Departamento de Clínica Médica, Disciplina de Alergia e Imunologia Clínica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria N Sato
- Laboratório de Investigação em Dermatologia e Imunodeficiências, LIM 56, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil; Departamento de Dermatologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mayana Zatz
- Human Genome and Stem Cell Research Center, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Biosciences Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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17
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Chatterjee S, Nalla LV, Sharma M, Sharma N, Singh AA, Malim FM, Ghatage M, Mukarram M, Pawar A, Parihar N, Arya N, Khairnar A. Association of COVID-19 with Comorbidities: An Update. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2023; 6:334-354. [PMID: 36923110 PMCID: PMC10000013 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) which was identified in Wuhan, China in December 2019 and jeopardized human lives. It spreads at an unprecedented rate worldwide, with serious and still-unfolding health conditions and economic ramifications. Based on the clinical investigations, the severity of COVID-19 appears to be highly variable, ranging from mild to severe infections including the death of an infected individual. To add to this, patients with comorbid conditions such as age or concomitant illnesses are significant predictors of the disease's severity and progression. SARS-CoV-2 enters inside the host cells through ACE2 (angiotensin converting enzyme2) receptor expression; therefore, comorbidities associated with higher ACE2 expression may enhance the virus entry and the severity of COVID-19 infection. It has already been recognized that age-related comorbidities such as Parkinson's disease, cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases may lead to life-threatening illnesses in COVID-19-infected patients. COVID-19 infection results in the excessive release of cytokines, called "cytokine storm", which causes the worsening of comorbid disease conditions. Different mechanisms of COVID-19 infections leading to intensive care unit (ICU) admissions or deaths have been hypothesized. This review provides insights into the relationship between various comorbidities and COVID-19 infection. We further discuss the potential pathophysiological correlation between COVID-19 disease and comorbidities with the medical interventions for comorbid patients. Toward the end, different therapeutic options have been discussed for COVID-19-infected comorbid patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayan Chatterjee
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382355, India
| | - Lakshmi Vineela Nalla
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382355, India.,Department of Pharmacy, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Vaddeswaram, Andhra Pradesh 522302, India
| | - Monika Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382355, India
| | - Nishant Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382355, India
| | - Aditya A Singh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382355, India
| | - Fehmina Mushtaque Malim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382355, India
| | - Manasi Ghatage
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382355, India
| | - Mohd Mukarram
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382355, India
| | - Abhijeet Pawar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382355, India
| | - Nidhi Parihar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382355, India
| | - Neha Arya
- Department of Translational Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhopal, Bhopal 462020, India
| | - Amit Khairnar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382355, India.,International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Brno 602 00, Czech Republic.,ICRC-FNUSA Brno 656 91, Czech Republic.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 62500 Brno, Czechia
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18
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Alterations in the Expression of IFN Lambda, IFN Gamma and Toll-like Receptors in Severe COVID-19 Patients. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11030689. [PMID: 36985262 PMCID: PMC10058642 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11030689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Contradictory results have been reported regarding interferon (IFN) lambda (λ1–3) and IFN gamma (γ) production in COVID-19 patients. To gain insight into the roles played by these IFNs in SARS-CoV-2 infection, IFNλ1–3 and IFNγ mRNA expression was evaluated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) (n = 32) and in cells of paired bronchoalveolar lavages (BALs) (n = 12). Lower IFNλ1–3 values (p < 0.001 for IFNλ1 and 3 and p = 0.013 for IFNλ2) in the PBMCs of severely ill patients were found compared to healthy donors (n = 15). Reduced levels of IFNγ were also detected in patients’ PBMCs (p < 0.01) and BALs (p = 0.041) compared to healthy donors. The presence of secondary bacterial infections was associated with decreased IFNλ amounts in PBMCs (p = 0.001, p = 0.015 and p = 0.003, respectively) but increased concentrations of IFNλ3 (p = 0.022) in BALs. Patients with alterations in C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase and D-dimer levels had decreased IFNλ1 and 3 (p = 0.003 and p < 0.001) and increased IFNγ (p = 0.08) in PBMCs. Analyzing Toll-like receptors (TLRs) involved in IFN production, we found that TLR3 was highly expressed (p = 0.033) in patients with bacterial superinfections, while TLR7 and 8 (p = 0.029 and p = 0.049) were reduced in BALs of deceased patients. Overall, severe COVID-19 might be characterized by dysregulation in IFNγ, IFNλ and TLR3, 7 and 8 production.
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19
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Zsichla L, Müller V. Risk Factors of Severe COVID-19: A Review of Host, Viral and Environmental Factors. Viruses 2023; 15:175. [PMID: 36680215 PMCID: PMC9863423 DOI: 10.3390/v15010175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical course and outcome of COVID-19 are highly variable, ranging from asymptomatic infections to severe disease and death. Understanding the risk factors of severe COVID-19 is relevant both in the clinical setting and at the epidemiological level. Here, we provide an overview of host, viral and environmental factors that have been shown or (in some cases) hypothesized to be associated with severe clinical outcomes. The factors considered in detail include the age and frailty, genetic polymorphisms, biological sex (and pregnancy), co- and superinfections, non-communicable comorbidities, immunological history, microbiota, and lifestyle of the patient; viral genetic variation and infecting dose; socioeconomic factors; and air pollution. For each category, we compile (sometimes conflicting) evidence for the association of the factor with COVID-19 outcomes (including the strength of the effect) and outline possible action mechanisms. We also discuss the complex interactions between the various risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Levente Zsichla
- Institute of Biology, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
- National Laboratory for Health Security, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Viktor Müller
- Institute of Biology, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
- National Laboratory for Health Security, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
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20
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Altfeld M, Scully EP. Sex Differences in HIV Infection. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2023; 441:61-73. [PMID: 37695425 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-35139-6_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Biological sex has wide-ranging impacts on HIV infection spanning differences in acquisition risk, the pathogenesis of untreated infection, impact of chronic treated disease and prospects for HIV eradication or functional cure. This chapter summarizes the scope of these differences and discusses several features of the immune response thought to contribute to the clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Altfeld
- Department Virus Immunology, Leibniz Institute for Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Eileen P Scully
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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21
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Gómez-Carballa A, Pardo-Seco J, Pischedda S, Rivero-Calle I, Butler-Laporte G, Richards JB, Viz-Lasheras S, Martinón-Torres F, Salas A. Sex-biased expression of the TLR7 gene in severe COVID-19 patients: Insights from transcriptomics and epigenomics. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 215:114288. [PMID: 36152884 PMCID: PMC9508271 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
There is abundant epidemiological data indicating that the incidence of severe cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is significantly higher in males than females worldwide. Moreover, genetic variation at the X-chromosome linked TLR7 gene has been associated with COVID-19 severity. It has been suggested that the sex-biased incidence of COVID-19 might be related to the fact that TLR7 escapes X-chromosome inactivation during early embryogenesis in females, thus encoding a doble dose of its gene product compared to males. We analyzed TLR7 expression in two acute phase cohorts of COVID-19 patients that used two different technological platforms, one of them in a multi-tissue context including saliva, nasal, and blood samples, and a third cohort that included different post-infection timepoints of long-COVID-19 patients. We additionally explored methylation patterns of TLR7 using epigenomic data from an independent cohort of COVID-19 patients stratified by severity and sex. In line with genome-wide association studies, we provide supportive evidence indicating that TLR7 has altered CpG methylation patterns and it is consistently downregulated in males compared to females in the most severe cases of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gómez-Carballa
- Genetics, Vaccines and Infections Research Group (GENVIP), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBER-ES), Madrid, Spain; Unidade de Xenética, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, and GenPoB Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS), Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago (SERGAS), Galicia, Spain
| | - J Pardo-Seco
- Genetics, Vaccines and Infections Research Group (GENVIP), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBER-ES), Madrid, Spain; Unidade de Xenética, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, and GenPoB Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS), Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago (SERGAS), Galicia, Spain
| | - S Pischedda
- Genetics, Vaccines and Infections Research Group (GENVIP), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBER-ES), Madrid, Spain; Unidade de Xenética, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, and GenPoB Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS), Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago (SERGAS), Galicia, Spain
| | - I Rivero-Calle
- Genetics, Vaccines and Infections Research Group (GENVIP), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBER-ES), Madrid, Spain; Translational Pediatrics and Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - G Butler-Laporte
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - J B Richards
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - S Viz-Lasheras
- Genetics, Vaccines and Infections Research Group (GENVIP), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBER-ES), Madrid, Spain; Unidade de Xenética, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, and GenPoB Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS), Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago (SERGAS), Galicia, Spain
| | - F Martinón-Torres
- Genetics, Vaccines and Infections Research Group (GENVIP), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBER-ES), Madrid, Spain; Translational Pediatrics and Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - A Salas
- Genetics, Vaccines and Infections Research Group (GENVIP), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBER-ES), Madrid, Spain; Unidade de Xenética, Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, Facultade de Medicina, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, and GenPoB Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IDIS), Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago (SERGAS), Galicia, Spain.
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22
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Pujantell M, Altfeld M. Consequences of sex differences in Type I IFN responses for the regulation of antiviral immunity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:986840. [PMID: 36189206 PMCID: PMC9522975 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.986840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system protects us from pathogens, such as viruses. Antiviral immune mechanisms aim to limit viral replication, and must maintain immunological homeostasis to avoid excessive inflammation and damage to the host. Sex differences in the manifestation and progression of immune-mediated disease point to sex-specific factors modulating antiviral immunity. The exact mechanisms regulating these immunological differences between females and males are still insufficiently understood. Females are known to display stronger Type I IFN responses and are less susceptible to viral infections compared to males, indicating that Type I IFN responses might contribute to the sexual dimorphisms observed in antiviral responses. Here, we review the impact of sex hormones and X chromosome-encoded genes on differences in Type I IFN responses between females and males; and discuss the consequences of sex differences in Type I IFN responses for the regulation of antiviral immune responses.
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23
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Averyanova M, Vishnyakova P, Yureneva S, Yakushevskaya O, Fatkhudinov T, Elchaninov A, Sukhikh G. Sex hormones and immune system: Menopausal hormone therapy in the context of COVID-19 pandemic. Front Immunol 2022; 13:928171. [PMID: 35983046 PMCID: PMC9379861 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.928171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The fatal outcomes of COVID-19 are related to the high reactivity of the innate wing of immunity. Estrogens could exert anti-inflammatory effects during SARS-CoV-2 infection at different stages: from increasing the antiviral resistance of individual cells to counteracting the pro-inflammatory cytokine production. A complex relationship between sex hormones and immune system implies that menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) has pleiotropic effects on immunity in peri- and postmenopausal patients. The definite immunological benefits of perimenopausal MHT confirm the important role of estrogens in regulation of immune functionalities. In this review, we attempt to explore how sex hormones and MHT affect immunological parameters of the organism at different level (in vitro, in vivo) and what mechanisms are involved in their protective response to the new coronavirus infection. The correlation of sex steroid levels with severity and lethality of the disease indicates the potential of using hormone therapy to modulate the immune response and increase the resilience to adverse outcomes. The overall success of MHT is based on decades of experience in clinical trials. According to the current standards, MHT should not be discontinued in COVID-19 with the exception of critical cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Averyanova
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology named after Academician V. I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Polina Vishnyakova
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology named after Academician V. I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
- Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Medical Institute, Moscow, Russia
- *Correspondence: Polina Vishnyakova,
| | - Svetlana Yureneva
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology named after Academician V. I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Oksana Yakushevskaya
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology named after Academician V. I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Timur Fatkhudinov
- Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Medical Institute, Moscow, Russia
- A. P. Avtsyn Research Institute of Human Morphology, Laboratory of Growth and Development, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey Elchaninov
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology named after Academician V. I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Gennady Sukhikh
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology named after Academician V. I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
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24
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Impact of Female Gender on Acute and Mid-Term Mortality in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction during the Pandemic Era. WOMEN 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/women2030019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
There is still much controversy concerning the impact of gender on mortality during ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The COVID-19 pandemic deeply affected the clinical history of these patients, both in terms of presentation time and management. Our study focuses on STEMI patients hospitalized during the darkest period of the pandemic. From a total of 283 patients, women represented 26.8% of the population, with a mean age of 72 ± 11.2 years vs. 64.7 ± 12.6 years in men. Anterior STEMI was the most represented with a mildly reduced ejection fraction (EF 48.3 ± 11.8%) similar between genders. Coronary angiography showed more extensive disease in man, while women presented with a higher Killip class at admission and a more pronounced anemic status. In-hospital and 1-year mortality of the whole cohort were 11.4% and 7.5%, respectively, with no significant differences between genders (14.5% women vs. 10.6% men, p = ns; 9.2% women vs. 7% man, p = ns). EF resulted in being the only independent predictor of mortality in the short-term and at 1-year follow up in both genders. In the acute phase, the only other independent predictor of mortality was COVID-19 infection, secondary to the higher rate of respiratory complications, without any difference in terms of major adverse cardiac events. The impact of COVID-19 infection on mortality was completely lost at 1-year follow up.
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25
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Farooq M, Khan AW, Ahmad B, Kim MS, Choi S. Therapeutic Targeting of Innate Immune Receptors Against SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:915565. [PMID: 35847031 PMCID: PMC9280161 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.915565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The innate immune system is the first line of host's defense against invading pathogens. Multiple cellular sensors that detect viral components can induce innate antiviral immune responses. As a result, interferons and pro-inflammatory cytokines are produced which help in the elimination of invading viruses. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) belongs to Coronaviridae family, and has a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA genome. It can infect multiple hosts; in humans, it is responsible for the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Successful, timely, and appropriate detection of SARS-CoV-2 can be very important for the early generation of the immune response. Several drugs that target the innate immune receptors as well as other signaling molecules generated during the innate immune response are currently being investigated in clinical trials. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge of the mechanisms underlying host sensing and innate immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 infection, as well as the role of innate immune receptors in terms of their therapeutic potential against SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, we discussed the drugs undergoing clinical trials and the FDA approved drugs against SARS-CoV-2. This review will help in understanding the interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and innate immune receptors and thus will point towards new dimensions for the development of new therapeutics, which can be beneficial in the current pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariya Farooq
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
- S&K Therapeutics, Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Abdul Waheed Khan
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Bilal Ahmad
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
- S&K Therapeutics, Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Moon Suk Kim
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Sangdun Choi
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
- S&K Therapeutics, Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea
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26
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Mawhinney M, Kulle A, Thanabalasuriar A. From infection to repair: Understanding the workings of our innate immune cells. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1567. [PMID: 35674186 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1567] [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: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In a world filled with microbes, some posing a threat to our body, our immune system is key to living a healthy life. The innate immune system is made of various cell types that act to guard our bodies. Unlike the adaptive immune system that has a specific response, our innate immune system encompasses cells that elicit unspecific immune responses, triggered whenever the right signals are detected. Our understanding of immunity started with the concept of our immune system only responding to "nonself" like the pathogens that invade our body. However, over the past few decades, we have learned that the immune system is more than an on/off switch that recognizes nonself. The innate immune system regularly patrols our bodies for pathogens and tissue damage. Our innate immune system not only seeks to resolve infection but also repair tissue injury, through phagocytosing debris and initiating the release of growth factors. Recently, we are starting to see that it is not just recognizing danger, our innate immune system plays a crucial role in repair. Innate immune cells phenotypically change during repair. In the context of severe injury or trauma, our innate immune system is modified quite drastically to help repair, resulting in reduced infection control. Moreover, these changes in immune cell function can be modified by sex as a biological variable. From past to present, in this overview, we provide a summary of the innate immune cells and pathways in infection and tissue repair. This article is categorized under: Immune System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Mawhinney
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Amelia Kulle
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Ajitha Thanabalasuriar
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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27
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Sex Differences in COVID-19 Hospitalization and Hospital Mortality among Patients with COPD in Spain: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Viruses 2022; 14:v14061238. [PMID: 35746709 PMCID: PMC9229343 DOI: 10.3390/v14061238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: We aimed to assess the effect of COPD in the incidence of hospital admissions for COVID-19 and on the in-hospital mortality (IHM) according to sex. (2) Methods: We used national hospital discharge data to select persons aged ≥40 years admitted to a hospital with a diagnosis of COVID-19 in 2020 in Spain. (3) Results: The study population included 218,301 patients. Age-adjusted incidence rates of COVID-19 hospitalizations for men with and without COPD were 10.66 and 9.27 per 1000 persons, respectively (IRR 1.14; 95% CI 1.08−1.20; p < 0.001). The IHM was higher in men than in women regardless of the history of COPD. The COPD was associated with higher IHM among women (OR 1.09; 95% CI 1.01−1.22) but not among men. The COPD men had a 25% higher risk of dying in the hospital with COVID-19 than women with COPD (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.1−1.42). (4) Conclusions: Sex differences seem to exist in the effect of COPD among patients suffering COVID-19. The history of COPD increased the risk of hospitalization among men but not among women, and COPD was only identified as a risk factor for IHM among women. In any case, we observed that COPD men had a higher mortality than COPD women. Understanding the mechanisms underlying these sex differences could help predict the patient outcomes and inform clinical decision making to facilitate early treatment and disposition decisions.
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28
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Li J, Ming Z, Yang L, Wang T, Liu G, Ma Q. Long noncoding RNA XIST: Mechanisms for X chromosome inactivation, roles in sex-biased diseases, and therapeutic opportunities. Genes Dis 2022; 9:1478-1492. [PMID: 36157489 PMCID: PMC9485286 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual dimorphism has been reported in various human diseases including autoimmune diseases, neurological diseases, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and some types of cancers, although the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. The long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) X-inactive specific transcript (XIST) is involved in X chromosome inactivation (XCI) in female placental mammals, a process that ensures the balanced expression dosage of X-linked genes between sexes. XIST is abnormally expressed in many sex-biased diseases. In addition, escape from XIST-mediated XCI and skewed XCI also contribute to sex-biased diseases. Therefore, its expression or modification can be regarded as a biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of many sex-biased diseases. Genetic manipulation of XIST expression can inhibit the progression of some of these diseases in animal models, and therefore XIST has been proposed as a potential therapeutic target. In this manuscript, we summarize the current knowledge about the mechanisms for XIST-mediated XCI and the roles of XIST in sex-biased diseases, and discuss potential therapeutic strategies targeting XIST.
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29
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Smith CIE, Zain R, Österborg A, Palma M, Buggert M, Bergman P, Bryceson Y. Do reduced numbers of plasmacytoid dendritic cells contribute to the aggressive clinical course of COVID-19 in chronic lymphocytic leukemia? Scand J Immunol 2022; 95:e13153. [PMID: 35244285 PMCID: PMC9115357 DOI: 10.1111/sji.13153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Infections with SARS‐CoV‐2 have been unduly severe in patients with haematological malignancies, in particular in those with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). Based on a series of observations, we propose that an underlying mechanism for the aggressive clinical course of COVID‐19 in CLL is a paucity of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) in these patients. Indeed, pDCs express Toll‐like receptor 7 (TLR7), which together with interferon‐regulatory factor 7 (IRF7), enables pDCs to produce large amounts of type I interferons, essential for combating COVID‐19. Treatment of CLL with Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors increased the number of pDCs, likely secondarily to the reduction in the tumour burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- C I Edvard Smith
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Translational Research Center Karolinska (TRACK), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rula Zain
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Translational Research Center Karolinska (TRACK), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Center for Rare Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Österborg
- Dept of Hematology, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden.,Dept of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marzia Palma
- Dept of Hematology, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden.,Dept of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marcus Buggert
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Center for Infectious Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Bergman
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Microbiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Yenan Bryceson
- Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Broegelmann Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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30
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Arnold CG, Libby A, Vest A, Hopkinson A, Monte AA. Immune mechanisms associated with sex-based differences in severe COVID-19 clinical outcomes. Biol Sex Differ 2022; 13:7. [PMID: 35246245 PMCID: PMC8894555 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-022-00417-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although biological males and females are equally likely to become infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), evidence has mounted that males experience higher severity and fatality compared to females. Main The objective of this review is to examine the existing literature on biological mechanisms underlying sex-based differences that could contribute to SARS-CoV-2 infection clinical outcomes. Sex-based differences in immunologic response and hormonal expression help explain the differences in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outcomes observed in biological males and females. X inactivation facilitates a robust immune response to COVID-19 in females, who demonstrate a more profound antibody response and faster recovery when compared to males. Low testosterone levels also help explain the dysregulated inflammatory response and poor outcomes observed in some males with COVID-19. Gender differences in health expression and behaviors further compound these observed differences. Conclusion Understanding the biology of sex-based differences in COVID-19 severity and mortality could help inform preventative measures, treatment decisions, and development of personalized, sex-specific therapies. Although most COVID-19 patients develop only mild disease, some mount a pronounced inflammatory response that results in severe pneumonia, respiratory failure, and death. Male sex is a known risk factor for severe outcomes in COVID-19. Biological sex-based differences in COVID-19 severity and mortality are influenced by genetic and hormonal differences at the cellular and immunologic level. Biological sex-based differences are further complicated by environmental factors, namely social and cultural norms, that define gender roles which impact risk of infection and severe outcomes. Understanding sex-based differences in COVID-19 outcomes will help inform clinical decision algorithms and treatment strategies to optimize the care of COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosby G Arnold
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, 12401 East 17th Avenue, 7th Floor, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Anne Libby
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, 12401 East 17th Avenue, 7th Floor, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Alexis Vest
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, 12401 East 17th Avenue, 7th Floor, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Andrew Hopkinson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, 12401 East 17th Avenue, 7th Floor, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Andrew A Monte
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, 12401 East 17th Avenue, 7th Floor, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
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31
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Choi SW, Kim J, Lee JH, Kim SK, Lee SR, Kim SH, Chae HD. Hormone Therapy in the Era of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Review. J Menopausal Med 2022; 28:1-8. [PMID: 35534425 PMCID: PMC9086346 DOI: 10.6118/jmm.21036] [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: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted the medical, social, and reproductive health of millions of people since its outbreak. The causative virus transmits, reproduces, and manifests through the respiratory tract. COVID-19 can invade any system of the body, including the cardiovascular and endocrine systems, through a secondary immune response. In particular, because the fatality rate is high in those over the age of 50 years, special attention is required during the medical care of this population. However, considering the benefit of therapy and the risk of COVID-19, high-quality evidence regarding individualized management in relation to hormone therapy is still insufficient in the field of gynecology. Furthermore, this review aims to serve as a reference for clinical application by analyzing and summarizing the results of studies reported to date regarding female hormone therapy in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Wook Choi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Juhee Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Hoon Lee
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seul Ki Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Sa Ra Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hee Dong Chae
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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