1
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Tuttolomondo M, Pham STD, Terp MG, Cendán Castillo V, Kalisi N, Vogel S, Langkjær N, Hansen UM, Thisgaard H, Schrøder HD, Palarasah Y, Ditzel HJ. A novel multitargeted self-assembling peptide-siRNA complex for simultaneous inhibition of SARS-CoV-2-host cell interaction and replication. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102227. [PMID: 38939051 PMCID: PMC11203390 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Effective therapeutics are necessary for managing severe COVID-19 disease despite the availability of vaccines. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) can silence viral genes and restrict SARS-CoV-2 replication. Cell-penetrating peptides is a robust method for siRNA delivery, enhancing siRNA stability and targeting specific receptors. We developed a peptide HE25 that blocks SARS-CoV-2 replication by various mechanisms, including the binding of multiple receptors involved in the virus's internalization, such as ACE2, integrins and NRP1. HE25 not only acts as a vehicle to deliver the SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase siRNA into cells but also facilitates their internalization through endocytosis. Once inside endosomes, the siRNA is released into the cytoplasm through the Histidine-proton sponge effect and the selective cleavage of HE25 by cathepsin B. These mechanisms effectively inhibited the replication of the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 and the Omicron variant BA.5 in vitro. When HE25 was administered in vivo, either by intravenous injection or inhalation, it accumulated in lungs, veins and arteries, endothelium, or bronchial structure depending on the route. Furthermore, the siRNA/HE25 complex caused gene silencing in lung cells in vitro. The SARS-CoV-2 siRNA/HE25 complex is a promising therapeutic for COVID-19, and a similar strategy can be employed to combat future emerging viral diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Tuttolomondo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Cancer and Inflammation Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Stephanie Thuy Duong Pham
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Cancer and Inflammation Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Mikkel Green Terp
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Cancer and Inflammation Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Virginia Cendán Castillo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Cancer and Inflammation Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Nazmie Kalisi
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Stefan Vogel
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Niels Langkjær
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Ulla Melchior Hansen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Imaging Core Facility, DaMBIC, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Helge Thisgaard
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Henrik Daa Schrøder
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
- Department of Pathology, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Yaseelan Palarasah
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Cancer and Inflammation Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Henrik Jørn Ditzel
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Cancer and Inflammation Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
- Department of Oncology, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark
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2
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Ahmed SH, AlMoslemany MA, Witwer KW, Tehamy AG, El-Badri N. Stem Cell Extracellular Vesicles as Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Immunomodulatory Therapeutics: A Systematic Review of Clinical and Preclinical Studies. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:900-930. [PMID: 38393666 PMCID: PMC11087360 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10675-2] [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] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 rapidly escalated into a worldwide pandemic with elevated infectivity even from asymptomatic patients. Complications can lead to severe pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which are the main contributors to death. Because of their regenerative and immunomodulatory capacities, stem cells and their derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are perceived as promising therapies against severe pulmonary conditions, including those associated with COVID-19. Herein, we evaluate the safety and efficacy of stem cell EVs in treating COVID-19 and complicating pneumonia, acute lung injury, and ARDS. We also cover relevant preclinical studies to recapitulate the current progress in stem cell EV-based therapy. METHODS Using PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, and Web of Science, we searched for all English-language published studies (2000-2023) that used stem cell EVs as a therapy for COVID-19, ARDS, or pneumonia. The risk of bias (ROB) was assessed for all studies. RESULTS Forty-eight studies met our inclusion criteria. Various-sized EVs derived from different types of stem cells were reported as a potentially safe and effective therapy to attenuate the cytokine storm induced by COVID-19. EVs alleviated inflammation and regenerated the alveolar epithelium by decreasing apoptosis, proinflammatory cytokines, neutrophil infiltration, and M2 macrophage polarization. They also prevented fibrin production and promoted the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines and endothelial cell junction proteins. CONCLUSION Similar to their parental cells, stem cell EVs mediate lung tissue regeneration by targeting multiple pathways and thus hold promise in promoting the recovery of COVID-19 patients and improving the survival rate of severely affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hamdy Ahmed
- Center of Excellence for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (CESC), Zewail City of Science and Technology, October Gardens, Giza, 6th of October City, 12582, Egypt
- Biotechnology/Biomolecular Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Atef AlMoslemany
- Center of Excellence for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (CESC), Zewail City of Science and Technology, October Gardens, Giza, 6th of October City, 12582, Egypt
| | - Kenneth Whitaker Witwer
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Richman Family Precision Medicine Center of Excellence in Alzheimer's Disease, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ahmed Gamal Tehamy
- Center of Excellence for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (CESC), Zewail City of Science and Technology, October Gardens, Giza, 6th of October City, 12582, Egypt
| | - Nagwa El-Badri
- Center of Excellence for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (CESC), Zewail City of Science and Technology, October Gardens, Giza, 6th of October City, 12582, Egypt.
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3
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Izac JR, Kwee EJ, Gaigalas A, Wang L. Quantitative and Standardized Pseudovirus Neutralization Assay for COVID-19. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2779:259-271. [PMID: 38526789 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3738-8_11] [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: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
COVID-19 is a global pandemic caused by the highly infectious SARS-CoV-2 virus. Efforts to combat SARS-CoV-2 infection include mass vaccination and development of monoclonal and convalescent plasma therapeutics that require precise measurements of correlative, functional neutralizing antibodies that prevent virus infection. Developing rapid, safe, easy-to-use, and high-quality neutralization assays are essential for the success of the massive effort. Here, we developed a vesicular stomatitis virus-based neutralization assay that was capable of quantifying varying degrees of neutralization in patient serum samples. This assay has two detection readouts, flow cytometry and live cell imaging. The two readout methods produced consistent values of all 50% neutralization titers, further enhancing measurement confidence on the assay. Moreover, the use of available reference standards such as the World Health Organization International Standard (NIBSC code 20/136) enables quantification and standardization of the pseudovirus neutralization assay with neutralizing antibody titers measured in International Units/mL. Quantitative and standardized neutralization assays are critical for reliable efficacy evaluation and comparison of numerous vaccines and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerilyn R Izac
- Biosystem and Biomaterials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Edward J Kwee
- Biosystem and Biomaterials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Adolfas Gaigalas
- Biosystem and Biomaterials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Lili Wang
- Biosystem and Biomaterials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD, USA.
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4
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Bharadwaj A, Kaur R, Gupta S. Emerging Treatment Approaches for COVID-19 Infection: A Critical Review. Curr Mol Med 2024; 24:435-448. [PMID: 37070448 DOI: 10.2174/1566524023666230417112543] [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: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
In the present scenario, the SARS-CoV-2 virus has imposed enormous damage on human survival and the global financial system. It has been estimated that around 111 million people all around the world have been infected, and about 2.47 million people died due to this pandemic. The major symptoms were sneezing, coughing, cold, difficulty breathing, pneumonia, and multi-organ failure associated 1with SARS-CoV-2. Currently, two key problems, namely insufficient attempts to develop drugs against SARSCoV-2 and the lack of any biological regulating process, are mostly responsible for the havoc caused by this virus. Henceforth, developing a few novel drugs is urgently required to cure this pandemic. It has been noticed that the pathogenesis of COVID-19 is caused by two main events: infection and immune deficiency, that occur during the pathological process. Antiviral medication can treat both the virus and the host cells. Therefore, in the present review, the major approaches for the treatment have been divided into "target virus" and "target host" groups. These two mechanisms primarily rely on drug repositioning, novel approaches, and possible targets. Initially, we discussed the traditional drugs per the physicians' recommendations. Moreover, such therapeutics have no potential to fight against COVID-19. After that, detailed investigation and analysis were conducted to find some novel vaccines and monoclonal antibodies and conduct a few clinical trials to check their effectiveness against SARSCoV- 2 and mutant strains. Additionally, this study presents the most successful methods for its treatment, including combinatorial therapy. Nanotechnology was studied to build efficient nanocarriers to overcome the traditional constraints of antiviral and biological therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alok Bharadwaj
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura, 281406, UP, India
| | - Rasanpreet Kaur
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura, 281406, UP, India
| | - Saurabh Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura, 281406, UP, India
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5
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Al-Wahaibi LH, Rehman MT, Al-Saleem MSM, Basudan OA, El-Gamal AA, Abdelkader MSA, AlAjmi MF, Abdel-Mageed WM. Virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulation study of abyssomicins as potential inhibitors of COVID-19 virus main protease and spike protein. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:8961-8977. [PMID: 36300522 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2139295] [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: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
The lack of any effective cure for the infectious COVID-19 disease has created a sense of urgency and motivated the search for effective antiviral drugs. Abyssomicins are actinomyces-derived spirotetronates polyketides antibiotics known for their promising antibacterial, antitumor, and antiviral activities. In this study, computational approaches were used to investigate the binding mechanism and the inhibitory ability of 38 abyssomicins against the main protease (Mpro) and the spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The results identified abyssomicins C, J, W, atrop-O-benzyl abyssomicin C, and atrop-O-benzyl desmethyl abyssomicin C as the most potential inhibitors of Mpro and RBD with binding energy ranges between -8.1 and -9.9 kcal mol-1; and between -6.9 and -8.2 kcal mol-1, respectively. Further analyses of physicochemical properties and drug-likeness suggested that all selected active abyssomicins, with the exception of abyssomicin J, obeyed Lipinski's rule of five. The stability of protein-ligand complexes was confirmed by performing molecular dynamics simulation for 100 ns and evaluating parameters such as such as root mean square deviation (RMSD), root mean square fluctuation (RMSF), radius of gyration (Rg), solvent accessible surface area (SASA), total number of contacts, and secondary structure. Prime/MM-GBSA (Molecular Mechanics-General Born Surface Area) and principal component analysis (PCA) analyses also confirmed the stable nature of protein-ligand complexes. Overall, the results showed that the studied abyssomicins have significant interactions with the selected protein targets; therefore, they were deemed viable candidates for further in vitro and in vivo evaluation.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamya H Al-Wahaibi
- Department of Chemistry, Science College, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Md Tabish Rehman
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muneera S M Al-Saleem
- Department of Chemistry, Science College, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omer A Basudan
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali A El-Gamal
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, El Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | - Mohamed F AlAjmi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wael M Abdel-Mageed
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
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6
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Cristea AM, Zaharia DC, Jipa-Duna D, Dumitrache-Rujinski S, Parliteanu OA, Bogdan AM, Toma CL. Predictors of negative outcomes in hospitalized patients with SARS‑CoV‑2 pneumonia: A retrospective study. Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:437. [PMID: 37614431 PMCID: PMC10443062 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic posed a serious threat to human health worldwide after the first case was identified in December 2019. Specific therapeutic options for COVID-19 are lacking; thus, the treatment of patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is complex in clinical practice. Despite the development of treatment options and methods to limit the spread of SARS-CoV-2, certain patients experience critical illness and numerous deaths have occurred. Notably, treatment of this disease is complex due to the evolution of viral mutations and variants with different rates of infection. Moreover, specific patient characteristics may be associated with rapid disease progression and poor outcomes. Thus, the present study aimed to identify the specific characteristics of patients who developed poor outcomes, including clinical manifestations, blood samples (blood cell count and coagulation tests) at hospital admission and comorbidities. The present study included a total of 1,813 patients hospitalized with pneumonia and SARS-CoV-2 infection, and mortality rates associated with each patient characteristic were calculated. The characteristics associated with the highest risk of mortality were as follows: Age >90 years (OR, 105; 95% CI, 17.70-2,023.00); oxygen saturation at the time of hospital admission <89% in room air (OR, 14.3; 95% CI, 7.54-30.7), admission to the Intensive Care Unit (OR, 39.4; 95% CI, 27.7-57.0); and a neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio of 8.76-54.2 (OR, 14; 95% CI, 7.62-29.0). Treatment of patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia represents a challenge for the healthcare system, but there are a number of predictors for poor patient outcomes that could be identified at the time of hospital admission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra-Maria Cristea
- Department of Pneumology I, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania
- Department of Pneumology VII, Marius Nasta Institute of Pneumology, Bucharest 050159, Romania
| | - Dragos-Cosmin Zaharia
- Department of Pneumology I, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania
- Department of Pneumology VII, Marius Nasta Institute of Pneumology, Bucharest 050159, Romania
| | - Daniela Jipa-Duna
- Department of Pneumology I, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania
- Department of Pneumology II, Marius Nasta Institute of Pneumology, Bucharest 050159, Romania
| | - Stefan Dumitrache-Rujinski
- Department of Pneumology I, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania
- Department of Pneumology IV, Marius Nasta Institute of Pneumology, Bucharest 050159, Romania
| | - Oana Andreea Parliteanu
- Department of Ambulatory Diabetes, Marius Nasta Institute of Pneumology, Bucharest 050159, Romania
| | - Alexandru Miron Bogdan
- Department of Pneumology I, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania
| | - Claudia Lucia Toma
- Department of Pneumology I, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania
- Department of Pneumology IV, Marius Nasta Institute of Pneumology, Bucharest 050159, Romania
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7
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Izac JR, Kwee EJ, Tian L, Elsheikh E, Gaigalas AK, Elliott JT, Wang L. Development of a Cell-Based SARS-CoV-2 Pseudovirus Neutralization Assay Using Imaging and Flow Cytometry Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12332. [PMID: 37569707 PMCID: PMC10418775 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is an ongoing, global pandemic caused by the novel, highly infectious SARS-CoV-2 virus. Efforts to mitigate the effects of SARS-CoV-2, such as mass vaccination and development of monoclonal therapeutics, require precise measurements of correlative, functional neutralizing antibodies that block virus infection. The development of rapid, safe, and easy-to-use neutralization assays is essential for faster diagnosis and treatment. Here, we developed a vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV)-based neutralization assay with two readout methods, imaging and flow cytometry, that were capable of quantifying varying degrees of neutralization in patient serum samples. We tested two different spike-pseudoviruses and conducted a time-course assay at multiple multiplicities of infection (MOIs) to optimize the assay workflow. The results of this assay correlate with the results of previously developed serology and surrogate neutralization assays. The two pseudovirus readout methods produced similar values of 50% neutralization titer values. Harvest-free in situ readouts for live-cell imaging and high-throughput analysis results for flow cytometry can provide unique capabilities for fast evaluation of neutralization, which is critical for the mitigation of future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerilyn R. Izac
- Biosystems and Biomaterials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA; (L.T.); (E.E.); (A.K.G.); (J.T.E.); (L.W.)
| | - Edward J. Kwee
- Biosystems and Biomaterials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA; (L.T.); (E.E.); (A.K.G.); (J.T.E.); (L.W.)
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8
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Batool R, Soler M, Colavita F, Fabeni L, Matusali G, Lechuga LM. Biomimetic nanoplasmonic sensor for rapid evaluation of neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal antibodies as antiviral therapy. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 226:115137. [PMID: 36796306 PMCID: PMC9904857 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115137] [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: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy is one of the most promising immunotherapies that have shown the potential to prevent or neutralize the effects of COVID-19 in patients at very early stages, with a few formulations recently approved by the European and American medicine agencies. However, a main bottleneck for their general implementation resides in the time-consuming, laborious, and highly-specialized techniques employed for the manufacturing and assessing of these therapies, excessively increasing their prices and delaying their administration to the patients. We propose a biomimetic nanoplasmonic biosensor as a novel analytical technique for the screening and evaluation of COVID-19 mAb therapies in a simpler, faster, and reliable manner. By creating an artificial cell membrane on the plasmonic sensor surface, our label-free sensing approach enables real-time monitoring of virus-cell interactions as well as direct analysis of antibody blocking effects in only 15 min assay time. We have achieved detection limits in the 102 TCID50/mL range for the study of SARS-CoV-2 viruses, which allows to perform neutralization assays by only employing a low-volume sample with common viral loads. We have demonstrated the accuracy of the biosensor for the evaluation of two different neutralizing antibodies targeting both Delta and Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2, with half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) determined in the ng/mL range. Our user-friendly and reliable technology could be employed in biomedical and pharmaceutical laboratories to accelerate, cheapen, and simplify the development of effective immunotherapies for COVID-19 and other serious infectious diseases or cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razia Batool
- Nanobiosensors and Bioanalytical Applications Group (NanoB2A), Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), CSIC, BIST, CIBER-BBN, Spain
| | - Maria Soler
- Nanobiosensors and Bioanalytical Applications Group (NanoB2A), Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), CSIC, BIST, CIBER-BBN, Spain.
| | - Francesca Colavita
- National Institute for Infectious Disease “L. Spallanzani”, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Lavinia Fabeni
- National Institute for Infectious Disease “L. Spallanzani”, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Matusali
- National Institute for Infectious Disease “L. Spallanzani”, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura M. Lechuga
- Nanobiosensors and Bioanalytical Applications Group (NanoB2A), Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), CSIC, BIST, CIBER-BBN, Spain,Corresponding author
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9
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Triveri A, Casali E, Frasnetti E, Doria F, Frigerio F, Cinquini F, Pavoni S, Moroni E, Marchetti F, Serapian SA, Colombo G. Conformational Behavior of SARS-Cov-2 Spike Protein Variants: Evolutionary Jumps in Sequence Reverberate in Structural Dynamic Differences. J Chem Theory Comput 2023; 19:2120-2134. [PMID: 36926878 PMCID: PMC10029694 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.3c00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has evolved rapidly in the first 3 years of pandemic diffusion. The initial evolution of the virus appeared to proceed through big jumps in sequence changes rather than through the stepwise accumulation of point mutations on already established variants. Here, we examine whether this nonlinear mutational process reverberates in variations of the conformational dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein (S-protein), the first point of contact between the virus and the human host. We run extensive microsecond-scale molecular dynamics simulations of seven distinct variants of the protein in their fully glycosylated state and set out to elucidate possible links between the mutational spectrum of the S-protein and the structural dynamics of the respective variant, at global and local levels. The results reveal that mutation-dependent structural and dynamic modulations mostly consist of increased coordinated motions in variants that acquire stability and in an increased internal flexibility in variants that are less stable. Importantly, a limited number of functionally important substructures (the receptor binding domain, in particular) share the same time of movements in all variants, indicating efficient preorganization for functional regions dedicated to host interactions. Our results support a model in which the internal dynamics of the S-proteins from different strains varies in a way that reflects the observed random and non-stepwise jumps in sequence evolution, while conserving the functionally oriented traits of conformational dynamics necessary to support productive interactions with host receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Triveri
- Dipartimento di Chimica,
Università di Pavia, via Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia,
Italy
| | - Emanuele Casali
- Dipartimento di Chimica,
Università di Pavia, via Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia,
Italy
| | - Elena Frasnetti
- Dipartimento di Chimica,
Università di Pavia, via Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia,
Italy
| | - Filippo Doria
- Dipartimento di Chimica,
Università di Pavia, via Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia,
Italy
| | - Francesco Frigerio
- Department of Physical Chemistry, R&D
Eni SpA, via Maritano 27, 20097 San Donato Milanese (Mi),
Italy
| | - Fabrizio Cinquini
- Upstream & Technical
Services—TECS/STES—Eni Spa, via Emilia 1, 20097 San Donato
Milanese (Mi), Italy
| | - Silvia Pavoni
- Department of Physical Chemistry, R&D
Eni SpA, via Maritano 27, 20097 San Donato Milanese (Mi),
Italy
| | | | - Filippo Marchetti
- Dipartimento di Chimica,
Università di Pavia, via Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia,
Italy
| | - Stefano A. Serapian
- Dipartimento di Chimica,
Università di Pavia, via Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia,
Italy
| | - Giorgio Colombo
- Dipartimento di Chimica,
Università di Pavia, via Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia,
Italy
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10
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Alipour S, Mahmoudi L, Ahmadi F. Pulmonary drug delivery: an effective and convenient delivery route to combat COVID-19. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023; 13:705-715. [PMID: 36260223 PMCID: PMC9580423 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-022-01251-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The recent outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Wuhan, China has spread rapidly around the world, leading to a widespread and urgent effort to develop and use comprehensive approaches in the treatment of COVID-19. While oral therapy is accepted as an effective and simple method, since the primary site of infection and disease progression of COVID-19 is mainly through the lungs, inhaled drug delivery directly to the lungs may be the most appropriate route of administration. To prevent or treat primary SARS-CoV-2 infections, it is essential to target the virus port of entry in the respiratory tract and airway epithelium, which requires rapid and high-intensity inhibition or control of viral entry or replication. To achieve success in this field, inhalation therapy is the most attractive treatment approach due to efficacy/safety profiles. In this review article, pulmonary drug delivery as a unique treatment option in lung diseases will be briefly reviewed. Then, possible inhalation therapies for the treatment of symptoms of COVID-19 will be discussed and the results of clinical trials will be presented. By pulmonary delivery of the currently approved drugs for COVID-19, efficacy of the treatment would be improved along with reducing systemic side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shohreh Alipour
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center and Department of Food & Drug Quality Control, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Laleh Mahmoudi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Ahmadi
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Zapata-Cardona MI, Florez-Alvarez L, Guerra-Sandoval AL, Chvatal-Medina M, Guerra-Almonacid CM, Hincapie-Garcia J, Hernandez JC, Rugeles MT, Zapata-Builes W. In vitro and in silico evaluation of antiretrovirals against SARS-CoV-2: A drug repurposing approach. AIMS Microbiol 2023; 9:20-40. [PMID: 36891537 PMCID: PMC9988408 DOI: 10.3934/microbiol.2023002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Drug repurposing is a valuable strategy for rapidly developing drugs for treating COVID-19. This study aimed to evaluate the antiviral effect of six antiretrovirals against SARS-CoV-2 in vitro and in silico. Methods The cytotoxicity of lamivudine, emtricitabine, tenofovir, abacavir, efavirenz and raltegravir on Vero E6 was evaluated by MTT assay. The antiviral activity of each of these compounds was evaluated via a pre-post treatment strategy. The reduction in the viral titer was assessed by plaque assay. In addition, the affinities of the antiretroviral interaction with viral targets RdRp (RNA-dependent RNA polymerase), ExoN-NSP10 (exoribonuclease and its cofactor, the non-structural protein 10) complex and 3CLpro (3-chymotrypsin-like cysteine protease) were evaluated by molecular docking. Results Lamivudine exhibited antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 at 200 µM (58.3%) and 100 µM (66.7%), while emtricitabine showed anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity at 100 µM (59.6%), 50 µM (43.4%) and 25 µM (33.3%). Raltegravir inhibited SARS-CoV-2 at 25, 12.5 and 6.3 µM (43.3%, 39.9% and 38.2%, respectively). The interaction between the antiretrovirals and SARS-CoV-2 RdRp, ExoN-NSP10 and 3CLpro yielded favorable binding energies (from -4.9 kcal/mol to -7.7 kcal/mol) using bioinformatics methods. Conclusion Lamivudine, emtricitabine and raltegravir showed in vitro antiviral effects against the D614G strain of SARS-CoV-2. Raltegravir was the compound with the greatest in vitro antiviral potential at low concentrations, and it showed the highest binding affinities with crucial SARS-CoV-2 proteins during the viral replication cycle. However, further studies on the therapeutic utility of raltegravir in patients with COVID-19 are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria I Zapata-Cardona
- Grupo Inmunovirologia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Lizdany Florez-Alvarez
- Grupo Inmunovirologia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Medellin, Colombia.,Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Mateo Chvatal-Medina
- Grupo Inmunovirologia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Medellin, Colombia
| | | | - Jaime Hincapie-Garcia
- Grupo de investigacion, Promocion y prevencion farmaceutica, Facultad de ciencias farmaceuticas yalimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Juan C Hernandez
- Grupo Infettare, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Maria T Rugeles
- Grupo Inmunovirologia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Wildeman Zapata-Builes
- Grupo Inmunovirologia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Medellin, Colombia.,Grupo Infettare, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Medellin, Colombia
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12
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Sharun K, Tiwari R, Yatoo MI, Natesan S, Megawati D, Singh KP, Michalak I, Dhama K. A comprehensive review on pharmacologic agents, immunotherapies and supportive therapeutics for COVID-19. NARRA J 2022; 2:e92. [PMID: 38449903 PMCID: PMC10914132 DOI: 10.52225/narra.v2i3.92] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has affected many countries throughout the world. As urgency is a necessity, most efforts have focused on identifying small molecule drugs that can be repurposed for use as anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents. Although several drug candidates have been identified using in silico method and in vitro studies, most of these drugs require the support of in vivo data before they can be considered for clinical trials. Several drugs are considered promising therapeutic agents for COVID-19. In addition to the direct-acting antiviral drugs, supportive therapies including traditional Chinese medicine, immunotherapies, immunomodulators, and nutritional therapy could contribute a major role in treating COVID-19 patients. Some of these drugs have already been included in the treatment guidelines, recommendations, and standard operating procedures. In this article, we comprehensively review the approved and potential therapeutic drugs, immune cells-based therapies, immunomodulatory agents/drugs, herbs and plant metabolites, nutritional and dietary for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khan Sharun
- Division of Surgery, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, India
| | - Ruchi Tiwari
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Sciences, UP Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhayay Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalay Evum Go-Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU), Mathura, India
| | - Mohd I. Yatoo
- Division of Veterinary Clinical Complex, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Shuhama, Alusteng Srinagar, Sher-E-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Senthilkumar Natesan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Indian Institute of Public Health Gandhinagar, Opp to Airforce station HQ, Gandhinagar, India
| | - Dewi Megawati
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Warmadewa University, Denpasar, Indonesia
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Karam P. Singh
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, India
| | - Izabela Michalak
- Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Advanced Material Technologies, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, India
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13
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Zhu J, Li Y, Liang J, Mubareka S, Slutsky AS, Zhang H. The Potential Protective Role of GS-441524, a Metabolite of the Prodrug Remdesivir, in Vaccine Breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 Infections. INTENSIVE CARE RESEARCH 2022; 2:49-60. [PMID: 36407474 PMCID: PMC9645326 DOI: 10.1007/s44231-022-00021-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cases of vaccine breakthrough, especially in variants of concern (VOCs) infections, are emerging in coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Due to mutations of structural proteins (SPs) (e.g., Spike proteins), increased transmissibility and risk of escaping from vaccine-induced immunity have been reported amongst the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Remdesivir was the first to be granted emergency use authorization but showed little impact on survival in patients with severe COVID-19. Remdesivir is a prodrug of the nucleoside analogue GS-441524 which is converted into the active nucleotide triphosphate to disrupt viral genome of the conserved non-structural proteins (NSPs) and thus block viral replication. GS-441524 exerts a number of pharmacological advantages over Remdesivir: (1) it needs fewer conversions for bioactivation to nucleotide triphosphate; (2) it requires only nucleoside kinase, while Remdesivir requires several hepato-renal enzymes, for bioactivation; (3) it is a smaller molecule and has a potency for aerosol and oral administration; (4) it is less toxic allowing higher pulmonary concentrations; (5) it is easier to be synthesized. The current article will focus on the discussion of interactions between GS-441524 and NSPs of VOCs to suggest potential application of GS-441524 in breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infections. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s44231-022-00021-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- JiaYi Zhu
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael’s Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Yuchong Li
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael’s Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- The State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jady Liang
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael’s Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Samira Mubareka
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Sunnybrook Health Science Centre, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Arthur S. Slutsky
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael’s Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- The State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Haibo Zhang
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael’s Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- The State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
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14
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Antimicrobial and antiviral activity of selenium sulphide nanoparticles synthesised in extracts from spices in natural deep eutectic solvents (NDES). SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGIES 2022; 32:e00433. [PMCID: PMC8996440 DOI: 10.1016/j.susmat.2022.e00433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Selenium sulphide is a well-known bioactive chemical, but its preparation in nanometric form stabilised in water has not been widely reported. In the article, extracts of cinnamon, curcumin, and pepper obtained using natural deep eutectic solvents (NDES) were used to obtain stable selenium sulphide nanoparticles. The analysis confirmed that selenium sulphide nanoparticles with an average crystallite size of 28–44 nm and a particle size of approximately 500 nm were successfully synthesised. The use of NDES stabilised the SeS2 nanoparticles and increased their bioactivity towards microorganisms. The obtained systems revealed high biocidal and antiviral activity against S. aureus, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans strains, Human influenza virus A/H1N1, and Betacoronavirus 1 (Human coronavirus HCoV-OC43). The SeS2 nanoparticles obtained in the NDES extract of curcuma strongly inhibited the growth of pathogenic fungi and bacteria with minimum biocidal concentration (MBC) values of 117.2, 117.2, 117.2, and 468.8 mg/dm3 against E. coli, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and C. albicans, respectively. The suspensions containing selenium sulphide nanoparticles stabilised by spice extracts were also highly active against influenza viruses and B-coronavirus, showing a reduction of over 99%.
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In Silico Screening of Potential Phytocompounds from Several Herbs against SARS-CoV-2 Indian Delta Variant B.1.617.2 to Inhibit the Spike Glycoprotein Trimer. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12020665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
In October 2020, the SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617 lineage was discovered in India. It has since become a prominent variant in several Indian regions and 156 countries, including the United States of America. The lineage B.1.617.2 is termed the delta variant, harboring diverse spike mutations in the N-terminal domain (NTD) and the receptor-binding domain (RBD), which may heighten its immune evasion potentiality and cause it to be more transmissible than other variants. As a result, it has sparked substantial scientific investigation into the development of effective vaccinations and anti-viral drugs. Several efforts have been made to examine ancient medicinal herbs known for their health benefits and immune-boosting action against SARS-CoV-2, including repurposing existing FDA-approved anti-viral drugs. No efficient anti-viral drugs are available against the SARS-CoV-2 Indian delta variant B.1.617.2. In this study, efforts were made to shed light on the potential of 603 phytocompounds from 22 plant species to inhibit the Indian delta variant B.1.617.2. We also compared these compounds with the standard drug ceftriaxone, which was already suggested as a beneficial drug in COVID-19 treatment; these compounds were compared with other FDA-approved drugs: remdesivir, chloroquine, hydroxy-chloroquine, lopinavir, and ritonavir. From the analysis, the identified phytocompounds acteoside (−7.3 kcal/mol) and verbascoside (−7.1 kcal/mol), from the plants Clerodendrum serratum and Houttuynia cordata, evidenced a strong inhibitory effect against the mutated NTD (MT-NTD). In addition, the phytocompounds kanzonol V (−6.8 kcal/mol), progeldanamycin (−6.4 kcal/mol), and rhodoxanthin (−7.5 kcal/mol), from the plant Houttuynia cordata, manifested significant prohibition against RBD. Nevertheless, the standard drug, ceftriaxone, signals less inhibitory effect against MT-NTD and RBD with binding affinities of −6.3 kcal/mol and −6.5 kcal/mol, respectively. In this study, we also emphasized the pharmacological properties of the plants, which contain the screened phytocompounds. Our research could be used as a lead for future drug design to develop anti-viral drugs, as well as for preening the Siddha formulation to control the Indian delta variant B.1.617.2 and other future SARS-CoV-2 variants.
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Global Pandemic as a Result of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Outbreak: A Biomedical Perspective. JOURNAL OF PURE AND APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.22207/jpam.15.4.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In December 2019, a novel coronavirus had emerged in Wuhan city, China that led to an outbreak resulting in a global pandemic, taking thousands of lives. The infectious virus was later classified as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Individuals infected by this novel virus initially exhibit nonspecific symptoms such as dry cough, fever, dizziness and many more bodily complications. From the “public health emergency of international concern” declaration by the World Health Organisation (WHO), several countries have taken steps in controlling the transmission and many researchers share their knowledge on the SARS-COV-2 characteristics and viral life cycle, that may aid in pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies to develop SARS-CoV-2 vaccine and antiviral drugs that interfere with the viral life cycle. In this literature review the origin, classification, aetiology, life cycle, clinical manifestations, laboratory diagnosis and treatment are all reviewed.
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17
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Zannella C, Rinaldi L, Boccia G, Chianese A, Sasso FC, De Caro F, Franci G, Galdiero M. Regulation of m6A Methylation as a New Therapeutic Option against COVID-19. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14111135. [PMID: 34832917 PMCID: PMC8625908 DOI: 10.3390/ph14111135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 and the resulting pandemic has led to a spasmodic search for approaches able to limit the diffusion of the disease. The epigenetic machinery has aroused considerable interest in the last decades, and much evidence has demonstrated that this type of modification could regulate the early stages of viral infection. Recently it was reported that N6-methyladenosine (m6A) influences SARS-CoV-2 replication, although its role remains to be further investigated. The knockdown of enzymes involved in the m6A pathway could represent an optimal strategy to deepen the epigenetic mechanism. In the present study, we blocked the catalytic activity of the fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) by using the selective inhibitor rhein. We observed a strong broad-spectrum reduction of infectivity caused by various coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2. This effect could be due to the modulation of m6A levels and could allow identification of this modification as a new therapeutic target to treat SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Zannella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.Z.); (A.C.); (M.G.)
| | - Luca Rinaldi
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (L.R.); (F.C.S.)
| | - Giovanni Boccia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (G.B.); (F.D.C.)
| | - Annalisa Chianese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.Z.); (A.C.); (M.G.)
| | - Ferdinando Carlo Sasso
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (L.R.); (F.C.S.)
| | - Francesco De Caro
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (G.B.); (F.D.C.)
| | - Gianluigi Franci
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy; (G.B.); (F.D.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Massimiliano Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (C.Z.); (A.C.); (M.G.)
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Almehdi AM, Khoder G, Alchakee AS, Alsayyid AT, Sarg NH, Soliman SSM. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein: pathogenesis, vaccines, and potential therapies. Infection 2021; 49:855-876. [PMID: 34339040 PMCID: PMC8326314 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-021-01677-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE COVID-19 pandemic has emerged as a result of infection by the deadly pathogenic severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), causing enormous threats to humans. Coronaviruses are distinguished by a clove-like spike (S) protein, which plays a key role in viral pathogenesis, evolutions, and transmission. The objectives of this study are to investigate the distinctive structural features of SARS-CoV-2 S protein, its essential role in pathogenesis, and its use in the development of potential therapies and vaccines. METHODOLOGY A literature review was conducted to summarize, analyze, and interpret the available scientific data related to SARS-CoV-2 S protein in terms of characteristics, vaccines development and potential therapies. RESULTS The data indicate that S protein subunits and their variable conformational states significantly affect the virus pathogenesis, infectivity, and evolutionary mutation. A considerable number of potential natural and synthetic therapies were proposed based on S protein. Additionally, neutralizing antibodies were recently approved for emergency use. Furthermore, several vaccines utilizing the S protein were developed. CONCLUSION A better understanding of S protein features, structure and mutations facilitate the recognition of the importance of SARS-CoV-2 S protein in viral infection, as well as the development of therapies and vaccines. The efficacy and safety of these therapeutic compounds and vaccines are still controversial. However, they may potentially reduce or prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection, leading to a significant reduction of the global health burden of this pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M Almehdi
- College of Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Ghalia Khoder
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, UAE
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Aminah S Alchakee
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Azizeh T Alsayyid
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Nadin H Sarg
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Sameh S M Soliman
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, UAE.
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, Sharjah, UAE.
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Darweesh O, Abdulrazzaq GM, Al-Zidan RN, Bebane P, Merkhan M, Aldabbagh R, AlOmari N. Evaluation of the Pharmacologic Treatment of COVID-19 Pandemic in Iraq. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 7:171-178. [PMID: 34377628 PMCID: PMC8339216 DOI: 10.1007/s40495-021-00262-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2, or COVID-19) has been detrimental to human health, economy, and wellbeing. Little information is known on the epidemiology and outcome of the disease in a localized community within Iraq. We carried out an audit of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Kirkuk General Hospital. Data from the 20th of June to the 31st of July, 2020, were collected and analyzed. Suspected COVID-19 cases were confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Data on clinical symptoms, age, and treatment protocols were analyzed concerning the outcome. Our study included a total of 200 individual confirmed COVID-19 patients. The majority of cases 55% (n = 110) displayed severe symptoms, while 32.5% (65 cases) and 12.5% (25 cases) of patients displayed moderate to mild symptoms, respectively. The rate of death in the referred patients was 5%. Most patients admitted to the hospital for treatment recovered and were discharged from the hospital within 5 to 30 days post-diagnosis. Statistical analysis revealed that patients treated with oseltamivir, hydroxychloroquine, and azithromycin in combination with vitamins C and D have shorter hospital stay compared to patients receiving the same therapeutic protocol in combination with steroids. Moreover, a higher mortality rate (4.5%) was observed in patients treated with oseltamivir, hydroxychloroquine, ceftriaxone, and steroids. This study highlights a significant relationship between age, secondary ailments, and the choice of medications as simple predictors of the outcome of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Ruya Aldabbagh
- Kirkuk Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Kirkuk, Iraq
| | - Nohad AlOmari
- College of Pharmacy, Knowledge university, Erbil, Iraq
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Saba AA, Adiba M, Saha P, Hosen MI, Chakraborty S, Nabi AHMN. An in-depth in silico and immunoinformatics approach for designing a potential multi-epitope construct for the effective development of vaccine to combat against SARS-CoV-2 encompassing variants of concern and interest. Comput Biol Med 2021; 136:104703. [PMID: 34352457 PMCID: PMC8321692 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2021.104703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the latest of the several viral pathogens that have acted as a threat to human health around the world. Thus, to prevent COVID-19 and control the outbreak, the development of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 is one of the most important strategies at present. The study aimed to design a multi-epitope vaccine (MEV) against SARS-CoV-2. For the development of a more effective vaccine, 1549 nucleotide sequences were taken into consideration, including the variants of concern (B.1.1.7, B.1.351, P.1 and, B.1.617.2) and variants of interest (B.1.427, B.1.429, B.1.526, B.1.617.1 and P.2). A total of 11 SARS-CoV-2 proteins (S, N, E, M, ORF1ab polyprotein, ORF3a, ORF6, ORF7a, ORF7b, ORF8, ORF10) were targeted for T-cell epitope prediction and S protein was targeted for B-cell epitope prediction. MEV was constructed using linkers and adjuvant beta-defensin. The vaccine construct was verified, based on its antigenicity, physicochemical properties, and its binding potential, with toll-like receptors (TLR2, TLR4), ACE2 receptor and B cell receptor. The selected vaccine construct showed considerable binding with all the receptors and a significant immune response, including elevated antibody titer and B cell population along with augmented activity of TH cells, Tc cells and NK cells. Thus, immunoinformatics and in silico-based approaches were used for constructing MEV which is capable of eliciting both innate and adaptive immunity. In conclusion, the vaccine construct developed in this study has all the potential for the development of a next-generation vaccine which may in turn effectively combat the new variants of SARS-CoV-2 identified so far. However, in vitro and animal studies are warranted to justify our findings for its utility as probable preventive measure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Al Saba
- Laboratory of Population Genetics, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Maisha Adiba
- Laboratory of Population Genetics, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Piyal Saha
- Laboratory of Population Genetics, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Ismail Hosen
- Laboratory of Population Genetics, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sajib Chakraborty
- Molecular Systems Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - A H M Nurun Nabi
- Laboratory of Population Genetics, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh.
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Moubarak M, Kasozi KI, Hetta HF, Shaheen HM, Rauf A, Al-kuraishy HM, Qusti S, Alshammari EM, Ayikobua ET, Ssempijja F, Afodun AM, Kenganzi R, Usman IM, Ochieng JJ, Osuwat LO, Matama K, Al-Gareeb AI, Kairania E, Musenero M, Welburn SC, Batiha GES. The Rise of SARS-CoV-2 Variants and the Role of Convalescent Plasma Therapy for Management of Infections. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:734. [PMID: 34440478 PMCID: PMC8399171 DOI: 10.3390/life11080734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Novel therapies for the treatment of COVID-19 are continuing to emerge as the SARS-Cov-2 pandemic progresses. PCR remains the standard benchmark for initial diagnosis of COVID-19 infection, while advances in immunological profiling are guiding clinical treatment. The SARS-Cov-2 virus has undergone multiple mutations since its emergence in 2019, resulting in changes in virulence that have impacted on disease severity globally. The emergence of more virulent variants of SARS-Cov-2 remains challenging for effective disease control during this pandemic. Major variants identified to date include B.1.1.7, B.1.351; P.1; B.1.617.2; B.1.427; P.2; P.3; B.1.525; and C.37. Globally, large unvaccinated populations increase the risk of more and more variants arising. With successive waves of COVID-19 emerging, strategies that mitigate against community transmission need to be implemented, including increased vaccination coverage. For treatment, convalescent plasma therapy, successfully deployed during recent Ebola outbreaks and for H1N1 influenza, can increase survival rates and improve host responses to viral challenge. Convalescent plasma is rich with cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-17, and IL-8), CCL2, and TNFα, neutralizing antibodies, and clotting factors essential for the management of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Clinical trials can inform and guide treatment policy, leading to mainstream adoption of convalescent therapy. This review examines the limited number of clinical trials published, to date that have deployed this therapy and explores clinical trials in progress for the treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Moubarak
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt; (M.M.); (H.M.S.)
| | - Keneth Iceland Kasozi
- Infection Medicine, Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, UK
- School of Medicine, Kabale University, Kabale P.O. Box 317, Uganda
| | - Helal F. Hetta
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt;
| | - Hazem M. Shaheen
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt; (M.M.); (H.M.S.)
| | - Abdur Rauf
- Department of Chemistry, University of Swabi, Swabi 23561, Pakistan;
| | - Hayder M. Al-kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Al-Mustansiriyia University, P.O. Box 14022 Baghdad, Iraq;
| | - Safaa Qusti
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Eida M. Alshammari
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, University of Ha’il, Ha’il 2440, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Emmanuel Tiyo Ayikobua
- School of Health Sciences, Soroti University, Soroti P.O. Box 211, Uganda; (E.T.A.); (L.O.O.)
| | - Fred Ssempijja
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Bushenyi P.O. Box 71, Uganda; (F.S.); (I.M.U.); (J.J.O.)
| | - Adam Moyosore Afodun
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Busitema University, Tororo P.O. Box 236, Uganda; (A.M.A.); (E.K.)
| | - Ritah Kenganzi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, Bushenyi P.O. Box 71, Uganda;
| | - Ibe Michael Usman
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Bushenyi P.O. Box 71, Uganda; (F.S.); (I.M.U.); (J.J.O.)
| | - Juma John Ochieng
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Bushenyi P.O. Box 71, Uganda; (F.S.); (I.M.U.); (J.J.O.)
| | - Lawrence Obado Osuwat
- School of Health Sciences, Soroti University, Soroti P.O. Box 211, Uganda; (E.T.A.); (L.O.O.)
| | - Kevin Matama
- School of Pharmacy, Kampala International University, Western Campus, Bushenyi P.O. Box 71, Uganda;
| | - Ali I. Al-Gareeb
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicine, College of Medicine Al-Mustansiriya University, Baghdad P.O. Box 14022, Iraq;
| | - Emmanuel Kairania
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Busitema University, Tororo P.O. Box 236, Uganda; (A.M.A.); (E.K.)
| | - Monica Musenero
- Ministry of Science Technology and Innovations, Government of Uganda, Kampala P.O. Box 7466, Uganda;
| | - Susan Christina Welburn
- Infection Medicine, Deanery of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, UK
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Joint Institute, Zhejiang University, International Campus, 718 East Haizhou Road, Haining 314400, China
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt; (M.M.); (H.M.S.)
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22
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In silico studies of selected xanthophylls as potential candidates against SARS-CoV-2 targeting main protease (Mpro) and papain-like protease (PLpro). HERBA POLONICA 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/hepo-2021-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Summary
Introduction: The main protease (Mpro) and the papain-like protease (PLpro) are essential for the replication of SARS-CoV-2. Both proteases can be targets for drugs acting against SARS-CoV-2.
Objective: This paper aims to investigate the in silico activity of nine xanthophylls as inhibitors of Mpro and PLpro.
Methods: The structures of Mpro (PDB-ID: 6LU7) and PLpro (PDB-ID: 6W9C) were obtained from RCSB Protein Data Bank and developed with BIOVIA Discovery Studio. Active sites of proteins were performed using CASTp. For docking the PyRx was used. Pharmacokinetic parameters of ADMET were evaluated using SwissADME and pkCSM.
Results:
β-cryptoxanthin exhibited the highest binding energy: –7.4 kcal/mol in the active site of Mpro. In PLpro active site, the highest binding energy had canthaxanthin of –9.4 kcal/mol, astaxanthin –9.3 kcal/mol, flavoxanthin –9.2 kcal/mol and violaxanthin –9.2 kcal/mol. ADMET studies presented lower toxicity of xanthophylls in comparison to ritonavir and ivermectin.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that xanthophylls can be used as potential inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2 main protease and papain-like protease.
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23
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In silico analysis of selected components of grapefruit seed extract against SARS-CoV-2 main protease. EUROBIOTECH JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/ebtj-2021-0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
At the end of December 2019, first identified cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) started emerging. Ever since the emergence of the first case of infection with SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19, it became the hottest research topic of numerous studies, in which scientists are trying to understand the path of infection, transmission, replication and viral action, all in order of finding a potential cure or vaccine applying various fundamental principles and methodologies. Using in silico method via AutoDock Vina 1.1.2., we analysed the binding affinity of six selected compounds from grapefruit seed extract (GSE) (narirutin, naringin, naringenin, limonin, ascorbic acid and citric acid) to SARS-CoV-2 main protease Mpro (PDB ID: 6Y84), using acetoside, remdesivir and gallic acid as a positive controls of binding affinity. Results showed highest affinity (rmsd l.b. 0.000; rmsd u.b. 0.000) for narirutin (-10.5), then for naringin (-10.1), acetoside (-10.0), limonin (-9.9), remdesivir (-9.6), naringenin (-8.2), ascorbic acid (-6.7), citric acid (-6.4) and gallic acid (-6.4), all expressed in kcal/mol. Our findings suggest that selected compounds from grapefruit seed extract represent potential inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro, but further research is needed as well as preclinical and clinical trials for final confirmation of inhibitory functionality of these compounds.
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24
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Bappy SS, Shibly AZ, Sultana S, Mohiuddin AKM, Kabir Y. Designing potential siRNA molecule for the nucleocapsid(N) gene silencing of different SARS-CoV-2 strains of Bangladesh: Computational approach. Comput Biol Chem 2021; 92:107486. [PMID: 33984653 PMCID: PMC8099544 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2021.107486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a single-stranded RNA (+) virus first identified in China and then became an ongoing global outbreak. In most cases, it is fatal in humans due to respiratory malfunction. Extensive researches are going to find an effective therapeutic technique for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals. In this study, we attempted to design a siRNA molecule to silence the most suitable nucleocapsid(N) gene of SARS-CoV-2, which play a major role during viral pathogenesis, replication, encapsidation and RNA packaging. At first, 270 complete N gene sequences of different strains in Bangladesh of these viruses were retrieved from the NCBI database. Different computational methods were used to design siRNA molecules. A siRNA molecule was built against these strains using the SiDirect 2.0 server. Using Mfold and the OligoCalc server, the siRNA molecule was tested for its secondary structure and GC material. The Clustal Omega tool was employed to evaluate any off-target harmony of the planned siRNA molecule. Herein, we proposed a duplex siRNA molecule that does not fit any off-target sequences for the gene silencing of SARS-CoV-2. To treat SARS-CoV-2 infections, currently, any effective therapy is not available. Our engineered siRNA molecule could give an alternative therapeutic approach against various sequenced SARS-CoV-2 strains in Bangladesh.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Shahariar Bappy
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, Santosh, Tangail, 1902, Bangladesh; Research and Development, Incepta Vaccine Ltd, Zirabo, Savar, Dhaka, 1341, Bangladesh
| | - Abu Zaffar Shibly
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, Santosh, Tangail, 1902, Bangladesh
| | - Sorna Sultana
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, Santosh, Tangail, 1902, Bangladesh
| | - A K M Mohiuddin
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, Santosh, Tangail, 1902, Bangladesh
| | - Yearul Kabir
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh.
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25
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Alfaro-Martínez JJ, Calbo Mayo J, Molina Cifuentes M, Abizanda Soler P, Guillén Martínez S, Rodríguez Marín Y, Sirvent Segovia AE, Nuñez Ares A, Alcaraz Barcelona M, Paterna Mellinas G, Cuesta Vizcaíno E, Martínez Alfaro E, Solís García Del Pozo J. Generation and validation of in-hospital mortality prediction score in COVID-19 patients: Alba-score. Curr Med Res Opin 2021; 37:719-726. [PMID: 33591851 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2021.1891036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 has a wide range of symptoms reported, which may vary from very mild cases (even asymptomatic) to deadly infections. Identifying high mortality risk individuals infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus through a prediction instrument that uses simple clinical and analytical parameters at admission can help clinicians to focus on treatment efforts in this group of patients. METHODS Data was obtained retrospectively from the electronic medical record of all COVID-19 patients hospitalized in the Albacete University Hospital Complex until July 2020. Patients were split into two: a generating and a validating cohort. Clinical, demographical and laboratory variables were included. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to select variables associated with in-hospital mortality in the generating cohort. A numerical and subsequently a categorical score according to mortality were constructed (A: mortality from 0% to 5%; B: from 5% to 15%; C: from 15% to 30%; D: from 30% to 50%; E: greater than 50%). These scores were validated with the validation cohort. RESULTS Variables independently related to mortality during hospitalization were age, diabetes mellitus, confusion, SaFiO2, heart rate and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) at admission. The numerical score defined ranges from 0 to 13 points. Scores included are: age ≥71 years (3 points), diabetes mellitus (1 point), confusion (2 points), onco-hematologic disease (1 point), SaFiO2 ≤ 419 (3 points), heart rate ≥ 100 bpm (1 point) and LDH ≥ 390 IU/L (2 points). The area under the curve (AUC) for the numerical and categorical scores from the generating cohort were 0.8625 and 0.848, respectively. In the validating cohort, AUCs were 0.8505 for the numerical score and 0.8313 for the categorical score. CONCLUSIONS Data analysis found a correlation between clinical admission parameters and in-hospital mortality for COVID-19 patients. This correlation is used to develop a model to assist physicians in the emergency department in the COVID-19 treatment decision-making process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juan Calbo Mayo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Albacete University Hospital Complex, Albacete, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ana Nuñez Ares
- Department of Pneumonology, Albacete University Hospital Complex, Albacete, Spain
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26
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A Simplified SARS-CoV-2 Pseudovirus Neutralization Assay. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9040389. [PMID: 33920999 PMCID: PMC8071407 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9040389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is an ongoing pandemic caused by the highly infectious coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 that is engaging worldwide scientific research to find a timely and effective eradication strategy. Great efforts have been put into anti-COVID-19 vaccine generation in an effort to protect the world population and block SARS-CoV-2 spread. To validate the protective efficacy of the vaccination campaign and effectively control the pandemic, it is necessary to quantify the induction of neutralizing antibodies by vaccination, as they have been established to be a correlate of protection. In this work, a SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus neutralization assay, based on a replication-incompetent lentivirus expressing an adapted form of CoV-2 S protein and an ACE2/TMPRSS2 stably expressing cell line, has been minimized in terms of protocol steps without loss of accuracy. The goal of the present simplified neutralization system is to improve SARS-CoV-2 vaccination campaign by means of an easy and accessible approach to be performed in any medical laboratory, maintaining the sensitivity and quantitative reliability of classical serum neutralization assays. Further, this assay can be easily adapted to different coronavirus variants by simply modifying the pseudotyping vector.
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27
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Fadl N, Ali E, Salem TZ. COVID-19: Risk Factors Associated with Infectivity and Severity. Scand J Immunol 2021; 93:e13039. [PMID: 33710663 PMCID: PMC8265317 DOI: 10.1111/sji.13039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
COVID‐19 is highly transmissible; however, its severity varies from one
individual to another. Variability among different isolates of the virus and among
its receptor (ACE2) may contribute to this severity, but comorbidity plays a major
role on disease prognosis. Many comorbidities have been reported to be associated
with severe COVID‐19 patients. We have collected data from retrospective studies
which include clinical and epidemiological features of patients and categorize them
into severe/mild, ICU/non‐ICU and survivors/dead patients. In this review, we give an
update about SARS‐CoV‐2 structure with emphasis on the possible reasons for the
severity of the virus in patients. We also collected information and patients’ data
to highlight the relation between COVID‐19 patients and comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahla Fadl
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Esraa Ali
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Tamer Z Salem
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt.,Department of Microbial Genetics, AGERI, ARC, Giza, Egypt.,National Biotechnology Network of Expertise (NBNE), Academy of Science Research and Technology (ASRT), Cairo, Egypt
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28
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Lariccia V, Magi S, Serfilippi T, Toujani M, Gratteri S, Amoroso S. Challenges and Opportunities from Targeting Inflammatory Responses to SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Narrative Review. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E4021. [PMID: 33322733 PMCID: PMC7763517 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9124021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic that continues to sweep across the world, posing an urgent need for effective therapies and prevention of the spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome related to coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). A major hypothesis that is currently guiding research and clinical care posits that an excessive and uncontrolled surge of pro-inflammatory cytokines (the so-called "cytokine storm") drives morbidity and mortality in the most severe cases. In the overall efforts made to develop effective and safe therapies (including vaccines) for COVID-19, clinicians are thus repurposing ready-to-use drugs with direct or indirect anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. Speculatively, there are many opportunities and challenges in targeting immune/inflammatory processes in the evolving settings of COVID-19 disease because of the need to safely balance the fight against virus and aggressive inflammation versus the suppression of host immune defenses and the risk of additional harms in already compromised patients. To this end, many studies are globally underway to weigh the pros and cons of tailoring drugs used for inflammatory-driven conditions to COVID-19 patient care, and the next step will be to summarize the growing clinical trial experience into clean clinical practice. Based on the current evidence, anti-inflammatory drugs should be considered as complementary approaches to anti-viral drugs that need to be timely introduced in the management of COVID-19 according to disease severity. While drugs that target SARS-CoV-2 entry or replication are expected to confer the greatest benefits at the early stage of the infection, anti-inflammatory drugs would be more effective in limiting the inflammatory processes that drive the worsening of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Lariccia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, School of Medicine, University “Politecnica delle Marche”, Via Tronto 10/A, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (S.M.); (T.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Simona Magi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, School of Medicine, University “Politecnica delle Marche”, Via Tronto 10/A, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (S.M.); (T.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Tiziano Serfilippi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, School of Medicine, University “Politecnica delle Marche”, Via Tronto 10/A, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (S.M.); (T.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Marwa Toujani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, School of Medicine, University “Politecnica delle Marche”, Via Tronto 10/A, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (S.M.); (T.S.); (M.T.)
| | - Santo Gratteri
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Salvatore Amoroso
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, School of Medicine, University “Politecnica delle Marche”, Via Tronto 10/A, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (S.M.); (T.S.); (M.T.)
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29
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Abstract
The recent emergence of a new coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‑2, SARS-CoV-2) that is transmitted efficiently among humans and can result in serious disease and/or death has become a global threat to public health and economy. In this article, we describe some of the most important characteristics of this new virus (including gaps in our understanding) and provide a perspective of ongoing activities for developing virus-specific countermeasures, such as vaccines and antiviral drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franz X Heinz
- Center for Virology, Medical University of Vienna, Kinderspitalgasse 15, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Karin Stiasny
- Center for Virology, Medical University of Vienna, Kinderspitalgasse 15, 1090, Vienna, Austria
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30
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Häfner SJ. Don't sugar coat the COVID (only the vasculature). Biomed J 2020; 43:393-398. [PMID: 33115641 PMCID: PMC7547304 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2020.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This issue of the Biomedical Journal acquaints us with the compelling hypothesis that the vascular glycocalyx lies at the intersection of severe COVID-19 risk factors and damages, and the ways used by artificial intelligence to predict interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and human proteins. Furthermore, we explore the antiviral potential of valinomycin and the long list of COVID-19-related clinical trials, and learn how (not) to fix a broken femoral head. Last but not least, we get to enjoy the tale of the cellular oxygen-sensing system as well as the role of the host complement system during Leptospira infection, and learn that SARS-CoV-2 can sometimes come with a pathogenic plus one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Julia Häfner
- University of Copenhagen, BRIC Biotech Research & Innovation Centre, Anders Lund Group, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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