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Antar SA, Ashour NA, Hamouda AO, Noreddin AM, Al-Karmalawy AA. Recent advances in COVID-19-induced liver injury: causes, diagnosis, and management. Inflammopharmacology 2024:10.1007/s10787-024-01535-7. [PMID: 39126569 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-024-01535-7] [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: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Since the start of the pandemic, considerable advancements have been made in our understanding of the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection and the associated COVID-19 on the hepatic system. There is a broad range of clinical symptoms for COVID-19. It affects multiple systems and has a dominant lung illness depending on complications. The progression of COVID-19 in people with pre-existing chronic liver disease (CLD) has also been studied in large multinational groups. Notably, SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with a higher risk of hepatic decompensation and death in patients with cirrhosis. In this review, the source, composition, mechanisms, transmission characteristics, clinical characteristics, therapy, and prevention of SARS-CoV-2 were clarified and discussed, as well as the evolution and variations of the virus. This review briefly discusses the causes and effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with CLD. As part of COVID-19, In addition, we assess the potential of liver biochemistry as a diagnostic tool examine the data on direct viral infection of liver cells, and investigate potential pathways driving SARS-CoV-2-related liver damage. Finally, we explore how the pandemic has had a significant impact on patient behaviors and hepatology services, which may increase the prevalence and severity of liver disease in the future. The topics encompassed in this review encompass the intricate relationships between SARS-CoV-2, liver health, and broader health management strategies, providing valuable insights for both current clinical practice and future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar A Antar
- Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Virginia Tech, Roanoke, VA, 24016, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Horus University-Egypt, New Damietta, 34518, Egypt
| | - Nada A Ashour
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt
| | - Amir O Hamouda
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Horus University-Egypt, New Damietta, 34518, Egypt
| | - Ayman M Noreddin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, 6Th of October City, Giza, 12566, Egypt
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California -Irvine, Irvine, USA
| | - Ahmed A Al-Karmalawy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Horus University-Egypt, New Damietta, New Damietta, 34518, Egypt.
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, 6Th of October City, Giza, 12566, Egypt.
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2
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Rurek M. Mitochondria in COVID-19: from cellular and molecular perspective. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1406635. [PMID: 38974521 PMCID: PMC11224649 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1406635] [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: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid development of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a closer analysis of cell functioning during β-coronavirus infection. This review will describe evidence for COVID-19 as a syndrome with a strong, albeit still underestimated, mitochondrial component. Due to the sensitivity of host mitochondria to coronavirus infection, SARS-CoV-2 affects mitochondrial signaling, modulates the immune response, modifies cellular energy metabolism, induces apoptosis and ageing, worsening COVID-19 symptoms which can sometimes be fatal. Various aberrations across human systems and tissues and their relationships with mitochondria were reported. In this review, particular attention is given to characterization of multiple alterations in gene expression pattern and mitochondrial metabolism in COVID-19; the complexity of interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and mitochondrial proteins is presented. The participation of mitogenome fragments in cell signaling and the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 subgenomic RNA within membranous compartments, including mitochondria is widely discussed. As SARS-CoV-2 severely affects the quality system of mitochondria, the cellular background for aberrations in mitochondrial dynamics in COVID-19 is additionally characterized. Finally, perspectives on the mitigation of COVID-19 symptoms by affecting mitochondrial biogenesis by numerous compounds and therapeutic treatments are briefly outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Rurek
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
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3
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Kavanagh KT, Cormier LE, Pontus C, Bergman A, Webley W. Long COVID's Impact on Patients, Workers, & Society: A review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37502. [PMID: 38518038 PMCID: PMC10957027 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of long COVID in adult survivors of an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection is approximately 11%. Of those afflicted, 26% have difficulty with day-to-day activities. The majority of long COIVD cases occur after mild or asymptomatic acute infection. Children can spread SARS-CoV-2 infections and can also develop long-term neurological, endocrine (type I diabetes), and immunological sequelae. Immunological hypofunction is exemplified by the recent large outbreaks of respiratory syncytial virus and streptococcal infections. Neurological manifestations are associated with anatomical brain damage demonstrated on brain scans and autopsy studies. The prefrontal cortex is particularly susceptible. Common symptoms include brain fog, memory loss, executive dysfunction, and personality changes. The impact on society has been profound. Fewer than half of previously employed adults who develop long COVID are working full-time, and 42% of patients reported food insecurity and 20% reported difficulties paying rent. Vaccination not only helps prevent severe COVID-19, but numerous studies have found beneficial effects in preventing and mitigating long COVID. There is also evidence that vaccination after an acute infection can lessen the symptoms of long COVID. Physical and occupational therapy can also help patients regain function, but the approach must be "low and slow." Too much physical or mental activity can result in post-exertional malaise and set back the recovery process by days or weeks. The complexity of long COVID presentations coupled with rampant organized disinformation, have caused significant segments of the public to ignore sound public health advice. Further research is needed regarding treatment and effective public communication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Wilmore Webley
- Department of Microbiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA
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4
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Sun W, Zhou T, Ding P, Guo L, Zhou X, Long K. Bibliometric analysis of intestinal microbiota and lung diseases. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1347110. [PMID: 38426014 PMCID: PMC10902173 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1347110] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Increasing evidence suggests a close association between the intestinal microbiome and the respiratory system, drawing attention to studying the gut-lung axis. This research employs bibliometric methods to conduct a visual analysis of literature in the field of intestinal microbiota and lung diseases over the past two decades. It offers scientific foundations for research directions and critical issues in this field. Methods We retrieved all articles on intestinal microbiota and lung diseases from the SCI-Expanded of WoSCC on October 25, 2023. The analysis included original articles and reviews published in English from 2011 to 2023. We utilized Python, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace to analyze the retrieved data visually. Results A total of 794 publications were analyzed. China ranked first in the number of publications, while the United States had the highest citations and H-index. Jian Wang was the most prolific author. Zhejiang University was the institution with the highest number of publications. Frontiers in Microbiology was the journal with the most publications. Author keywords appearing more than 100 times included "intestinal microbiota/microbiome", "microbiota/microbiome", and "gut-lung axis". Conclusion The correlation and underlying mechanisms between intestinal microbiota and lung diseases, including asthma, COPD, lung cancer, and respiratory infections, remain hot topics in research. However, understanding the mechanisms involving the gut-lung axis is still in its infancy and requires further elucidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiting Sun
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Tong Zhou
- School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Peng Ding
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Liuxue Guo
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiujuan Zhou
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Kunlan Long
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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5
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Daddi L, Dorsett Y, Geng T, Bokoliya S, Yuan H, Wang P, Xu W, Zhou Y. Baseline Gut Microbiome Signatures Correlate with Immunogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccines. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11703. [PMID: 37511464 PMCID: PMC10380288 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The powerful immune responses elicited by the mRNA vaccines targeting the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein contribute to their high efficacy. Yet, their efficacy can vary greatly between individuals. For vaccines not based on mRNA, cumulative evidence suggests that differences in the composition of the gut microbiome, which impact vaccine immunogenicity, are some of the factors that contribute to variations in efficacy. However, it is unclear if the microbiome impacts the novel mode of immunogenicity of the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines. We conducted a prospective longitudinal cohort study of individuals receiving SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines where we measured levels of anti-Spike IgG and characterized microbiome composition, at pre-vaccination (baseline), and one week following the first and second immunizations. While we found that microbial diversity at all timepoints correlated with final IgG levels, only at baseline did microbial composition and predicted function correlate with vaccine immunogenicity. Specifically, the phylum Desulfobacterota and genus Bilophila, producers of immunostimulatory LPS, positively correlated with IgG, while Bacteroides was negatively correlated. KEGG predicted pathways relating to SCFA metabolism and sulfur metabolism, as well as structural components such as flagellin and capsular polysaccharides, also positively correlated with IgG levels. Consistent with these findings, depleting the microbiome with antibiotics reduced the immunogenicity of the BNT162b2 vaccine in mice. These findings suggest that gut microbiome composition impacts the immunogenicity of the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Daddi
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Yair Dorsett
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Tingting Geng
- Department of Immunology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Suresh Bokoliya
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Hanshu Yuan
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Penghua Wang
- Department of Immunology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Wanli Xu
- School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Yanjiao Zhou
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
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6
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Tong J, Chen Y, He M, Wang W, Wang Y, Li N, Xia Q. The triangle relationship between human genome, gut microbiome, and COVID-19: opening of a Pandora's box. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1190939. [PMID: 37455722 PMCID: PMC10344606 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1190939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the pandemic started, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread worldwide. In patients with COVID-19, the gut microbiome (GM) has been supposed to be closely related to the progress of the disease. The gut microbiota composition and human genetic variation are also connected in COVID-19 patients, assuming a triangular relationship between the genome, GM, and COVID-19. Here, we reviewed the recent developments in the study of the relationship between gut microbiota and COVID-19. The keywords "COVID-19," "microbiome," and "genome" were used to search the literature in the PubMed database. We first found that the composition of the GM in COVID-19 patients varies according to the severity of the illness. Most obviously, Candida albicans abnormally increased while the probiotic Bifidobacterium decreased in severe cases of COVID-19. Interestingly, clinical studies have consistently emphasized that the family Lachnospiraceae plays a critical role in patients with COVID-19. Additionally, we have demonstrated the impact of microbiome-related genes on COVID-19. Specially, we focused on angiotensin-converting enzyme 2's dual functions in SARS-CoV-2 infection and gut microbiota alternation. In summary, these studies showed that the diversity of GMs is closely connected to COVID-19. A triangular relationship exists between COVID-19, the human genome, and the gut flora, suggesting that human genetic variations may offer a chance for a precise diagnosis of COVID-19, and the important relationships between genetic makeup and microbiome regulation may affect the therapy of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Tong
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, School of Tropical Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- College of Life Science, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Yuran Chen
- College of Life Science, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Mei He
- College of Life Science, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- College of Life Science, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Yiyang Wang
- College of Life Science, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Na Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, School of Tropical Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- Department of Tropical Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Qianfeng Xia
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, School of Tropical Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- Department of Tropical Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
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7
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Javan GT, Finley SJ, Moretti M, Visonà SD, Mezzari MP, Green RL. COVID-19 and brain-heart-lung microbial fingerprints in Italian cadavers. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1196328. [PMID: 37388248 PMCID: PMC10300556 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1196328] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The fact that SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that caused COVID-19, can translocate within days of infection to the brain and heart and that the virus can survive for months is well established. However, studies have not investigated the crosstalk between the brain, heart, and lungs regarding microbiota that simultaneously co-inhabit these organs during COVID-19 illness and subsequent death. Given the significant overlap of cause of death from or with SARS-CoV-2, we investigated the possibility of a microbial fingerprint regarding COVID-19 death. Methods: In the current study, the 16S rRNA V4 region was amplified and sequenced from 20 COVID-19-positive and 20 non-COVID-19 cases. Nonparametric statistics were used to determine the resulting microbiota profile and its association with cadaver characteristics. When comparing non-COVID-19 infected tissues versus those infected by COVID-19, there is statistical differences (p < 0.05) between organs from the infected group only. Results: When comparing the three organs, microbial richness was significantly higher in non-COVID-19-infected tissues than infected. Unifrac distance metrics showed more variance between control and COVID-19 groups in weighted analysis than unweighted; both were statistically different. Unweighted Bray-Curtis principal coordinate analyses revealed a near distinct two-community structure: one for the control and the other for the infected group. Both unweighted and weighted Bray-Curtis showed statistical differences. Deblur analyses demonstrated Firmicutes in all organs from both groups. Discussion: Data obtained from these studies facilitated the defining of microbiome signatures in COVID-19 decedents that could be identified as taxonomic biomarkers effective for predicting the occurrence, the co-infections involved in its dysbiosis, and the evolution of the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulnaz T. Javan
- Department of Physical and Forensic Sciences, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Sheree J. Finley
- Department of Physical and Forensic Sciences, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Matteo Moretti
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia D. Visonà
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Melissa P. Mezzari
- Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Robert L. Green
- Department of Physical and Forensic Sciences, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
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8
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Vaz-Rodrigues R, Mazuecos L, Villar M, Urra JM, Gortázar C, de la Fuente J. Serum biomarkers for nutritional status as predictors in COVID-19 patients before and after vaccination. J Funct Foods 2023; 101:105412. [PMID: 36644001 PMCID: PMC9829648 DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2023.105412] [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: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to characterize serum protein biomarkers for nutritional status that may be used as predictors for disease symptomatology in COVID-19 patients before and after vaccination. In pre-vaccine cohorts, proteomics analysis revealed significant differences between groups, with serum proteins alpha-1-acid glycoproteins (AGPs) 1 and 2, C-reactive protein (CRP) and retinol binding protein (RBP) increasing with COVID-19 severity, in contrast with serum albumin, transthyretin (TTR) and serotransferrin (TF) reduction as the symptomatology increased. Immunoassay reproduced and validated proteomics results of serum proteins albumin and RBP. In post-vaccine cohorts, the results showed the same pattern as in pre-vaccine cohorts for serum proteins AGPs, CRP, albumin and TTR. However, TF levels were similar between groups and RBP presented a slight reduction as COVID-19 symptomatology increased. In these cohorts, immunoassay validated proteomics results of serum proteins albumin, TTR and TF. Additionally, immune response to α-Gal in pre-vaccine cohorts varied in predominant immunoglobulin type profile, while post-vaccine groups presented mainly anti-α-Gal protective IgG antibodies. The study identified serum nutritional biomarkers that could potentially predict an accurate prognostic of COVID-19 disease to provide an appropriate nutritional care and guidance in non-vaccinated and vaccinated individuals against SARS-CoV-2. These results highlight the importance of designing personalized nutrition protocols to improve diet along with the application of prebiotics or probiotics for the control of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Vaz-Rodrigues
- Health and Biotechnology (SaBio), Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Lorena Mazuecos
- Health and Biotechnology (SaBio), Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Margarita Villar
- Health and Biotechnology (SaBio), Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain,Biochemistry Section, Faculty of Science and Chemical Technologies, and Regional Centre for Biomedical Research (CRIB), University of Castilla-La Mancha, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - José Miguel Urra
- Immunology, Hospital General Universitario de Ciudad Real, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain,Medicine School, Universidad de Castilla la Mancha (UCLM), 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Christian Gortázar
- Health and Biotechnology (SaBio), Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - José de la Fuente
- Health and Biotechnology (SaBio), Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain,Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA,Corresponding author at: SaBio, Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ronda de Toledo 12, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain
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9
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Vojdani A, Vojdani E, Saidara E, Maes M. Persistent SARS-CoV-2 Infection, EBV, HHV-6 and Other Factors May Contribute to Inflammation and Autoimmunity in Long COVID. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020400. [PMID: 36851614 PMCID: PMC9967513 DOI: 10.3390/v15020400] [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: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
A novel syndrome called long-haul COVID or long COVID is increasingly recognized in a significant percentage of individuals within a few months after infection with SARS-CoV-2. This disorder is characterized by a wide range of persisting, returning or even new but related symptoms that involve different tissues and organs, including respiratory, cardiac, vascular, gastrointestinal, musculo-skeletal, neurological, endocrine and systemic. Some overlapping symptomatologies exist between long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Very much like with long ME/CFS, infections with herpes family viruses, immune dysregulation, and the persistence of inflammation have been reported as the most common pattern for the development of long COVID. This review describes several factors and determinants of long COVID that have been proposed, elaborating mainly on viral persistence, reactivation of latent viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus and human herpesvirus 6 which are also associated with the pathology of ME/CFS, viral superantigen activation of the immune system, disturbance in the gut microbiome, and multiple tissue damage and autoimmunity. Based on these factors, we propose diagnostic strategies such as the measurement of IgG and IgM antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, EBV, HHV-6, viral superantigens, gut microbiota, and biomarkers of autoimmunity to better understand and manage this multi-factorial disorder that continues to affect millions of people in the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aristo Vojdani
- Immunosciences Lab, Inc., Los Angeles, CA 90035, USA
- Cyrex Laboratories, LLC, Phoenix, AZ 85034, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-310-657-1077
| | | | - Evan Saidara
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Michael Maes
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 1873 Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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10
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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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11
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Zhou B, Pang X, Wu J, Liu T, Wang B, Cao H. Gut microbiota in COVID-19: new insights from inside. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2201157. [PMID: 37078497 PMCID: PMC10120564 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2201157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The epidemic of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) has grown to be a global health threat. Gastrointestinal symptoms are thought to be common clinical manifestations apart from a series of originally found respiratory symptoms. The human gut harbors trillions of microorganisms that are indispensable for complex physiological processes and homeostasis. Growing evidence demonstrate that gut microbiota alteration is associated with COVID-19 progress and severity, and post-COVID-19 syndrome, characterized by decrease of anti-inflammatory bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Faecalibacterium and enrichment of inflammation-associated microbiota including Streptococcus and Actinomyces. Therapeutic strategies such as diet, probiotics/prebiotics, herb, and fecal microbiota transplantation have shown positive effects on relieving clinical symptoms. In this article, we provide and summarize the recent evidence about the gut microbiota and their metabolites alterations during and after COVID-19 infection and focus on potential therapeutic strategies targeting gut microbiota. Understanding the connections between intestinal microbiota and COVID-19 would provide new insights into COVID-19 management in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingqian Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, National Key Clinical Specialty, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaoqi Pang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, National Key Clinical Specialty, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Jingyi Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, National Key Clinical Specialty, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Tianyu Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, National Key Clinical Specialty, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Bangmao Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, National Key Clinical Specialty, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Hailong Cao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, National Key Clinical Specialty, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
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12
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Neag MA, Vulturar DM, Gherman D, Burlacu CC, Todea DA, Buzoianu AD. Gastrointestinal microbiota: A predictor of COVID-19 severity? World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:6328-6344. [PMID: 36533107 PMCID: PMC9753053 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i45.6328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, has raised serious concerns worldwide over the past 3 years. The severity and clinical course of COVID-19 depends on many factors (e.g., associated comorbidities, age, etc) and may have various clinical and imaging findings, which raises management concerns. Gut microbiota composition is known to influence respiratory disease, and respiratory viral infection can also influence gut microbiota. Gut and lung microbiota and their relationship (gut-lung axis) can act as modulators of inflammation. Modulating the intestinal microbiota, by improving its composition and diversity through nutraceutical agents, can have a positive impact in the prophylaxis/treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Adriana Neag
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca 400337, Romania
| | - Damiana-Maria Vulturar
- Department of Pneumology, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca 400332, Romania
| | - Diana Gherman
- Department of Radiology, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca 400347, Romania
| | - Codrin-Constantin Burlacu
- Faculty of Medicine, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca 400347, Romania
| | - Doina Adina Todea
- Department of Pneumology, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca 400332, Romania
| | - Anca Dana Buzoianu
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca 400337, Romania
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13
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Oral intake of Kluyveromyces marxianus B0399 plus Lactobacillus rhamnosus CECT 30579 to mitigate symptoms in COVID-19 patients: A randomized open label clinical trial. MEDICINE IN MICROECOLOGY 2022; 14:100061. [PMID: 36035620 PMCID: PMC9398813 DOI: 10.1016/j.medmic.2022.100061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
At the beginning of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, developing of new treatments to control the spread of infection and decrease morbidity and mortality are necessary. This prospective, open-label, case-control intervention study evaluates the impact of the oral intake of the probiotic yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus B0399 together with Lactobacillus rhamnosus CECT 30579, administered for 30 days, on the evolution of COVID-19 patients. Analysis of the digestive symptoms at the end of the follow up shows a benefit of the probiotic in the number of patients without pyrosis (100% vs 33.3%; p 0.05) and without abdominal pain (100% vs 62.5%; p 0.04). Results also show a better evolution when evaluating the difference in the overall number of patients without non-digestive symptoms at the end of the follow-up (41.7%, vs 13%; p 0.06). The percentage of improvement in the digestive symptoms (65% vs 88%; p value 0.06) and the global symptoms (digestive and non-digestive) (88.6% vs 70.8%; p value 0.03) is higher in the probiotic group. The probiotic was well tolerated with no relevant side effects and high adherence among patients. In conclusion, this coadjutant treatment seems to be promising, although results should be confirmed in new studies with higher number of patients.
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14
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Xu P, Yang Z, Du S, Hong Z, Zhong S. Intestinal microbiota analysis and network pharmacology reveal the mechanism by which Lianhua Qingwen capsule improves the immune function of mice infected with influenza A virus. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1035941. [PMID: 36504796 PMCID: PMC9732014 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1035941] [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: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Lianhua Qingwen capsule (LHQW) can attenuate lung injury caused by influenza virus infection. However, it is unclear whether the intestinal microbiota plays a role in LHQW activity in ameliorating viral infectious pneumonia. This study aimed to investigate the role of intestinal microbiota in LHQW activity in ameliorating viral infectious pneumonia and its possible mechanisms. Research design and methods A mouse model of influenza A viral pneumonia was established by intranasal administration in BALB/c mice. Detection of influenza virus in the lungs, pathological examination of the lungs and small intestine, and biochemical detection of inflammatory indices were performed. The effects of LHQW on intestinal microbiota were evaluated by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The key components and targets of LHQW were screened via network pharmacology and verified through molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and free binding energy calculations. Results Body weight decreased, inflammatory factor levels were disturbed, and the lung and intestinal mucosal barriers were significantly injured in the infected group. The alpha diversity of the intestinal microbiota decreased, and the abundance of Bacteroidetes, Muribaculaceae_unclassified, and Streptococcus decreased significantly. LHQW treatment reduced the viral load in the lungs, rescued body weight and survival, alleviated lung and intestinal mucosal barrier injury, reversed the reduction in the intestinal microbiota alpha diversity, and significantly increased the abundance of Bacteroidetes and Muribaculaceae. Network pharmacological analysis showed that six active herbal medicinal compounds from LHQW could regulate the intestinal microbiota and inhibit the immune-inflammatory response through the Toll-like receptor (TLR) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signalling pathways in the lungs. Conclusion These results suggest that LHQW is effective for treating influenza A virus infectious pneumonia, and the mechanism is associated with the regulation of the TLR4/NF-κB signalling pathway in the lungs by restoring intestinal microbiota and repairing the intestinal wall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Xu
- Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China,Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhu Yang
- Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | | | - Zongyuan Hong
- Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China,*Correspondence: Zongyuan Hong,
| | - Shuzhi Zhong
- Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China,Shuzhi Zhong,
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15
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Zoghi S, Abbasi A, Heravi FS, Somi MH, Nikniaz Z, Moaddab SY, Ebrahimzadeh Leylabadlo H. The gut microbiota and celiac disease: Pathophysiology, current perspective and new therapeutic approaches. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 64:2176-2196. [PMID: 36154539 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2121262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Celiac disease (CD) as a chronic gluten-sensitive intestinal condition, mainly affects genetically susceptible hosts. The primary determinants of CD have been identified as environmental and genetic variables. The development of CD is significantly influenced by environmental factors, including the gut microbiome. Therefore, gut microbiome re-programming-based therapies using probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, gluten-free diet, and fecal microbiota transplantation have shown promising results in the modification of the gut microbiome. Due to the importance and paucity of information regarding the CD pathophysiology, in this review, we have covered the association between CD development and gut microbiota, the effects of infectious agents, particularly the recent Covid-19 infection in CD patients, and the efficacy of potential therapeutic approaches in the CD have been discussed. Hence, scientific literature indicates that the diverse biological functions of the gut microbiota against immunomodulatory responses have made microbiome-based therapy an alternative therapeutic paradigm to ameliorate the symptoms of CD and quality of life. However, the exact potential of microbiota-based techniques that aims to quantitatively and qualitatively alter the gut microbiota to be used in the treatment and ameliorate the symptoms of CD will be determined with further research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevda Zoghi
- Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amin Abbasi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Food Science and Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Faculty of Nutrition Science and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Hossein Somi
- Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zeinab Nikniaz
- Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Seyed Yaghoub Moaddab
- Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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16
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Mancabelli L, Milani C, Fontana F, Lugli GA, Tarracchini C, Viappiani A, Ciociola T, Ticinesi A, Nouvenne A, Meschi T, Turroni F, Ventura M. Untangling the link between the human gut microbiota composition and the severity of the symptoms of the COVID-19 infection. Environ Microbiol 2022; 24:6453-6462. [PMID: 36086955 PMCID: PMC9538590 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Recent pandemic infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) led the scientific community to investigate the possible causes contributing to the physiopathology of this disease. In this context, analyses of the intestinal microbiota highlighted possible correlation between host-associated bacterial communities and development of the COVID-19. Nevertheless, a detailed investigation of the role of the human microbiota in the severity of the symptoms of this disease is still lacking. This study performed a comprehensive meta-analysis of 323 faecal samples from public and novel Italian data sets based on the shotgun metagenomic approach. In detail, the comparative analyses revealed possible differences in the microbial biodiversity related to the individual health status, highlighting a species richness decrease in COVID-19 patients with a severe prognosis. Moreover, healthy subjects resulted characterized by a higher abundance of protective and health-supporting bacterial species, while patients affected by COVID-19 disease displayed a significant increase of opportunistic pathogen bacteria involved in developing putrefactive dysbiosis. Furthermore, prediction of the microbiome functional capabilities suggested that individuals affected by COVID-19 subsist in an unbalanced metabolism characterized by an overrepresentation of enzymes involved in the protein metabolism at the expense of carbohydrates oriented pathways, which can impact on disease severity and in excessive systemic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Mancabelli
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly,Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Christian Milani
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly,Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of ChemistryLife Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Federico Fontana
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of ChemistryLife Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Gabriele Andrea Lugli
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of ChemistryLife Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Chiara Tarracchini
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of ChemistryLife Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of ParmaParmaItaly
| | | | - Tecla Ciociola
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Andrea Ticinesi
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly,Geriatric‐Rehabilitation DepartmentAzienda Ospedaliero‐Universitaria di ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Antonio Nouvenne
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly,Geriatric‐Rehabilitation DepartmentAzienda Ospedaliero‐Universitaria di ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Tiziana Meschi
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly,Geriatric‐Rehabilitation DepartmentAzienda Ospedaliero‐Universitaria di ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Francesca Turroni
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly,Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of ChemistryLife Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of ParmaParmaItaly
| | - Marco Ventura
- Interdepartmental Research Centre "Microbiome Research Hub"University of ParmaParmaItaly,Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of ChemistryLife Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of ParmaParmaItaly
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17
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Mozaffari SA, Salehi A, Mousavi E, Zaman BA, Nassaj AE, Ebrahimzadeh F, Nasiri H, Valedkarimi Z, Adili A, Asemani G, Akbari M. SARS-CoV-2-associated gut microbiome alteration; A new contributor to colorectal cancer pathogenesis. Pathol Res Pract 2022; 239:154131. [PMID: 36191449 PMCID: PMC9477615 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2022.154131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of a novel coronavirus, COVID-19, in December 2019 led to a global pandemic with more than 170 million confirmed infections and more than 6 million deaths (by July 2022). Studies have shown that infection with SARS-CoV-2 in cancer patients has a higher mortality rate than in people without cancer. Here, we have reviewed the evidence showing that gut microbiota plays an important role in health and is linked to colorectal cancer development. Studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 infection leads to a change in gut microbiota, which modify intestinal inflammation and barrier permeability and affects tumor-suppressor or oncogene genes, proposing SARS-CoV-2 as a potential contributor to CRC pathogenesis
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahrooz Amin Mozaffari
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Ali Salehi
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, School of Dentistry, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Isfahan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Elnaz Mousavi
- Dental Sciences Research Center, Department of Endodontics, School of Dentistry, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Burhan Abdullah Zaman
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Duhok, Duhok, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Ali Eslambol Nassaj
- Department of Endodontics, School of Dentistry, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Farnoosh Ebrahimzadeh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Hadi Nasiri
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Zahra Valedkarimi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Ali Adili
- Senior Adult Oncology Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA; Department of Oncology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Ghazaleh Asemani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Morteza Akbari
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Islamic Republic of Iran; Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Islamic Republic of Iran.
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18
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Callahan N, Hattar M, Barbour T, Adami GR, Kawar N. Oral microbial taxa associated with risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection. FRONTIERS IN ORAL HEALTH 2022; 3:886341. [PMID: 36118052 PMCID: PMC9478458 DOI: 10.3389/froh.2022.886341] [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: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypothesis and objective The oral and digestive tract microbial ecosystem has sparked interest because of its impact on various systemic diseases and conditions. The oral cavity serves not only as a reservoir for many potentially virulent microbiota but also as an important entry point and portal to the human body system. This is especially significant in the transmissibility of the virulent current pandemic virus SARS-CoV-2. The oral and digestive microbiome influences the inflammatory burden and effectiveness of the immune system and serves as a marker of activity of these host processes. The host immune response plays a role in infection susceptibility, including SARS-CoV-2. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of specific salivary oral microbiome in susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods and results One hundred six subjects of known medical and dental history who consented to provide saliva samples between January 2017 and December 2019 were included in this study. Sixteen had become COVID-19 positive based on the PCR test by 3/01/2021. A comparison of oral microbiome bacteria taxa profiles based on 16S rRNA sequencing revealed differences between the two groups in this pilot study. Conclusions These bacteria taxa may be markers of increased susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection in the unvaccinated population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Callahan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Meryana Hattar
- Department of Oral Medicine and Diagnostics, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Thawab Barbour
- Department of Oral Medicine and Diagnostics, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Guy R. Adami
- Department of Oral Medicine and Diagnostics, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- *Correspondence: Guy R. Adami
| | - Nadia Kawar
- Department of Periodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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19
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Abbasi AF, Marinkovic A, Prakash S, Sanyaolu A, Smith S. COVID-19 and the Human Gut Microbiome: An Under-Recognized Association. Chonnam Med J 2022; 58:96-101. [PMID: 36245770 PMCID: PMC9535107 DOI: 10.4068/cmj.2022.58.3.96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease with a wide range of respiratory and extrapulmonary symptoms, as well as gastrointestinal symptoms. Despite recent research linking gut microbiota to infectious diseases like influenza, minimal information is known about the gut microbiota's function in COVID-19 pathogenesis. Studies suggest that dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and gut barrier dysfunction may play a role in COVID-19 pathogenesis by disrupting host immune homeostasis. Regardless of whether patients had taken medication or disease severity, the gut microbiota composition was significantly altered in COVID-19 patients compared to non-COVID-19 individuals. Several gut commensals with recognized immunomodulatory potential, such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Eubacterium rectale, and bifidobacteria, were underrepresented in patients and remained low in samples taken several weeks after disease resolution. Furthermore, even with disease resolution, dysbiosis in the gut microbiota may contribute to chronic symptoms, underscoring the need to learn more about how gut microbes play a role in inflammation and COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Stella Smith
- Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
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20
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Li S, Zhou Y, Yan D, Wan Y. An Update on the Mutual Impact between SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Gut Microbiota. Viruses 2022; 14:1774. [PMID: 36016396 PMCID: PMC9415881 DOI: 10.3390/v14081774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiota is essential for good health. It has also been demonstrated that the gut microbiota can regulate immune responses against respiratory tract infections. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, accumulating evidence suggests that there is a link between the severity of COVID-19 and the alteration of one's gut microbiota. The composition of gut microbiota can be profoundly affected by COVID-19 and vice versa. Here, we summarize the observations of the mutual impact between SARS-CoV-2 infection and gut microbiota composition. We discuss the consequences and mechanisms of the bi-directional interaction. Moreover, we also discuss the immune cross-reactivity between SARS-CoV-2 and commensal bacteria, which represents a previously overlooked connection between COVID-19 and commensal gut bacteria. Finally, we summarize the progress in managing COVID-19 by utilizing microbial interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoshuai Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai 201508, China
- Key Laboratory of Microecology-Immune Regulatory Network and Related Diseases, School of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi 154000, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Dongmei Yan
- Key Laboratory of Microecology-Immune Regulatory Network and Related Diseases, School of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi 154000, China
| | - Yanmin Wan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Department of Radiology, Shanghai 201508, China
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21
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The Role of Exposomes in the Pathophysiology of Autoimmune Diseases II: Pathogens. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2022; 29:243-280. [PMID: 35736648 PMCID: PMC9231084 DOI: 10.3390/pathophysiology29020020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In our continuing examination of the role of exposomes in autoimmune disease, we use this review to focus on pathogens. Infections are major contributors to the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases through various mechanisms, foremost being molecular mimicry, when the structural similarity between the pathogen and a human tissue antigen leads to autoimmune reactivity and even autoimmune disease. The three best examples of this are oral pathogens, SARS-CoV-2, and the herpesviruses. Oral pathogens reach the gut, disturb the microbiota, increase gut permeability, cause local inflammation, and generate autoantigens, leading to systemic inflammation, multiple autoimmune reactivities, and systemic autoimmunity. The COVID-19 pandemic put the spotlight on SARS-CoV-2, which has been called “the autoimmune virus.” We explore in detail the evidence supporting this. We also describe how viruses, in particular herpesviruses, have a role in the induction of many different autoimmune diseases, detailing the various mechanisms involved. Lastly, we discuss the microbiome and the beneficial microbiota that populate it. We look at the role of the gut microbiome in autoimmune disorders, because of its role in regulating the immune system. Dysbiosis of the microbiota in the gut microbiome can lead to multiple autoimmune disorders. We conclude that understanding the precise roles and relationships shared by all these factors that comprise the exposome and identifying early events and root causes of these disorders can help us to develop more targeted therapeutic protocols for the management of this worldwide epidemic of autoimmunity.
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22
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Aggarwal V, Sunder S, Verma SR. Disease-associated dysbiosis and potential therapeutic role of Akkermansia muciniphila, a mucus degrading bacteria of gut microbiome. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2022; 67:811-824. [PMID: 35596115 PMCID: PMC9122250 DOI: 10.1007/s12223-022-00973-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The unique functionality of Akkermansia muciniphila in gut microbiota indicates it to be an indispensable microbe for human welfare. The importance of A. muciniphila lies in its potential to convert mucin into beneficial by-products, regulate intestinal homeostasis and maintain gut barrier integrity. It is also known to competitively inhibit other mucin-degrading bacteria and improve metabolic functions and immunity responses in the host. It finds a pivotal perspective in various diseases and their treatment. It has future as a promising probiotic, disease biomarker and therapeutic agent for chronic diseases. Disease-associated dysbiosis of A. muciniphila in the gut microbiome makes it a potential candidate as a biomarker for some diseases and can provide future theranostics by suggesting ways of diagnosis for the patients and best treatment method based on the screening results. Manipulation of A. muciniphila in gut microbiome may help in developing a novel personalized therapeutic action and can be a suitable next generation medicine. However, the actual pathway governing A. muciniphila interaction with hosts remains to be investigated. Also, due to the limited availability of products containing A. muciniphila, it is not exploited to its full potential. The present review aims at highlighting the potential of A. muciniphila in mucin degradation, contribution towards the gut health and host immunity and management of metabolic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, and respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis and COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidushi Aggarwal
- Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Delhi, 110042, India
| | - Sushant Sunder
- Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Delhi, 110042, India
| | - Smita Rastogi Verma
- Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Delhi, 110042, India.
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23
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Brogna C, Brogna B, Bisaccia DR, Lauritano F, Marino G, Montano L, Cristoni S, Prisco M, Piscopo M. Could SARS-CoV-2 Have Bacteriophage Behavior or Induce the Activity of Other Bacteriophages? Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10050708. [PMID: 35632464 PMCID: PMC9143435 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10050708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has become one of the most studied viruses of the last century. It was assumed that the only possible host for these types of viruses was mammalian eukaryotic cells. Our recent studies show that microorganisms in the human gastrointestinal tract affect the severity of COVID-19 and for the first time provide indications that the virus might replicate in gut bacteria. In order to further support these findings, in the present work, cultures of bacteria from the human microbiome and SARS-CoV-2 were analyzed by electron and fluorescence microscopy. The images presented in this article, in association with the nitrogen (15N) isotope-labeled culture medium experiment, suggest that SARS-CoV-2 could also infect bacteria in the gut microbiota, indicating that SARS-CoV-2 could act as a bacteriophage. Our results add new knowledge to the understanding of the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection and fill gaps in the study of the interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and non-mammalian cells. These findings could be useful in suggesting specific new pharmacological solutions to support the vaccination campaign.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Brogna
- Department of Research, Craniomed Group Facility Srl., 20091 Bresso, Italy; (D.R.B.); (F.L.)
- Correspondence: (C.B.); (M.P.)
| | - Barbara Brogna
- Department of Radiology, Moscati Hospital, Contrada Amoretta, 83100 Avellino, Italy;
| | - Domenico Rocco Bisaccia
- Department of Research, Craniomed Group Facility Srl., 20091 Bresso, Italy; (D.R.B.); (F.L.)
| | - Francesco Lauritano
- Department of Research, Craniomed Group Facility Srl., 20091 Bresso, Italy; (D.R.B.); (F.L.)
| | - Giuliano Marino
- Marsan Consulting Srl., Public Health Company, Via dei Fiorentini, 80133 Naples, Italy;
| | - Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit and Service of Life Style Medicine in Uro-Andrology, Local Health Authority (ASL), 84124 Salerno, Italy;
| | | | - Marina Prisco
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy;
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence: (C.B.); (M.P.)
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Farsi Y, Tahvildari A, Arbabi M, Vazife F, Sechi LA, Shahidi Bonjar AH, Jamshidi P, Nasiri MJ, Mirsaeidi M. Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Therapeutic Roles of Gut Microbiota in COVID-19: A Comprehensive Systematic Review. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:804644. [PMID: 35310853 PMCID: PMC8930898 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.804644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in late December 2019. Considering the important role of gut microbiota in maturation, regulation, and induction of the immune system and subsequent inflammatory processes, it seems that evaluating the composition of gut microbiota in COVID-19 patients compared with healthy individuals may have potential value as a diagnostic and/or prognostic biomarker for the disease. Also, therapeutic interventions affecting gut microbial flora may open new horizons in the treatment of COVID-19 patients and accelerating their recovery. Methods A systematic search was conducted for relevant studies published from December 2019 to December 2021 using Pubmed/Medline, Embase, and Scopus. Articles containing the following keywords in titles or abstracts were selected: "SARS-CoV-2" or "COVID-19" or "Coronavirus Disease 19" and "gastrointestinal microbes" or "dysbiosis" or "gut microbiota" or "gut bacteria" or "gut microbes" or "gastrointestinal microbiota". Results Out of 1,668 studies, 22 articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria and a total of 1,255 confirmed COVID-19 patients were examined. All included studies showed a significant association between COVID-19 and gut microbiota dysbiosis. The most alteration in bacterial composition of COVID-19 patients was depletion in genera Ruminococcus, Alistipes, Eubacterium, Bifidobacterium, Faecalibacterium, Roseburia, Fusicathenibacter, and Blautia and enrichment of Eggerthella, Bacteroides, Actinomyces, Clostridium, Streptococcus, Rothia, and Collinsella. Also, some gut microbiome alterations were associated with COVID-19 severity and poor prognosis including the increment of Bacteroides, Parabacteroides, Clostridium, Bifidobacterium, Ruminococcus, Campylobacter, Rothia, Corynebacterium, Megasphaera, Enterococcus, and Aspergillus spp. and the decrement of Roseburia, Eubacterium, Lachnospira, Faecalibacterium, and the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. Conclusion Our study showed a significant change of gut microbiome composition in COVID-19 patients compared with healthy individuals. This great extent of impact has proposed the gut microbiota as a potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic strategy for COVID-19. There is much evidence about this issue, and it is expected to be increased in near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeganeh Farsi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azin Tahvildari
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahta Arbabi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fateme Vazife
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leonardo A. Sechi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
- Struttura Complessa (SC), Microbiologia e Virologia, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Sassari, Italy
| | - Amir Hashem Shahidi Bonjar
- Clinician Scientist of Dental Materials and Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parnian Jamshidi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Nasiri
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mirsaeidi
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, College of Medicine-Jacksonville, University of Florida, Jacksonville, FL, United States
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