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Mendiola-Salazar XA, Munguía-Laguna MA, Franco M, Cano-Martínez A, Santamaría Sosa J, Bautista-Pérez R. SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Enhances Carboxypeptidase Activity of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6276. [PMID: 38892464 PMCID: PMC11172802 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116276] [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: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigated whether severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein may modify angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) activity in the plasma, heart, kidney, liver, lung, and six brain regions (amygdala, brain stem, cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, and striatum) of diabetic and hypertensive rats. We determine ACE2 activity in the plasma and lysates of heart, kidney, liver, lung, and six brain regions. MLN-4760 inhibits ACE2 activity in the plasma and all organs. On the other hand, soluble ACE2 (sACE2) activity increased in the plasma of diabetic rats, and there was no change in the plasma of hypertensive rats. ACE2 activity was augmented in the liver, brain stem, and striatum, while it decreased in the kidney, amygdala, cortex, and hippocampus of diabetic rats. ACE2 activity increased in the kidney, liver, and lung, while it decreased in the heart, amygdala, cortex, and hypothalamus of hypertensive rats. We measured the ACE2 content via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and found that ACE2 protein levels increased in the heart, while it decreased in the plasma, kidney, brain stem, cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, and striatum of diabetic rats. ACE2 protein levels decreased in the brain stem, cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus of hypertensive rats. Our data showed that the spike protein enhanced ACE2 activity in the liver and lungs of diabetic rats, as well as in the heart and three of the brain regions (cortex, hypothalamus, and striatum) of hypertensive rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xóchitl Andrea Mendiola-Salazar
- Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología “Ignacio Chávez”, Mexico City 14080, Mexico (M.A.M.-L.)
- Carrera de Médico Cirujano, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 54090, Mexico
| | - Melanie A. Munguía-Laguna
- Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología “Ignacio Chávez”, Mexico City 14080, Mexico (M.A.M.-L.)
| | - Martha Franco
- Department of Cardio-Renal Pathophysiology, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología “Ignacio Chávez”, Mexico City 14080, Mexico; (M.F.); (J.S.S.)
| | - Agustina Cano-Martínez
- Department of Physiology, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología “Ignacio Chávez”, Mexico City 14080, Mexico;
| | - José Santamaría Sosa
- Department of Cardio-Renal Pathophysiology, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología “Ignacio Chávez”, Mexico City 14080, Mexico; (M.F.); (J.S.S.)
| | - Rocío Bautista-Pérez
- Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología “Ignacio Chávez”, Mexico City 14080, Mexico (M.A.M.-L.)
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Hosseinpour-Soleimani F, Salmasi Z, Ghasemi Y, Tajbakhsh A, Savardashtaki A. MicroRNAs and proteolytic cleavage of receptors in cancers: A comprehensive review of regulatory interactions and therapeutic implications. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28167. [PMID: 38560206 PMCID: PMC10979173 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains a challenging disease worldwide, necessitating innovative approaches to better comprehend its underlying molecular mechanisms and devise effective therapeutic strategies. Over the past decade, microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as crucial players in cancer progression due to their regulatory roles in various cellular processes. Moreover, the involvement of unwanted soluble receptors has gained increasing attention because they contribute to tumorigenesis or drug resistance by disrupting normal signaling pathways and neutralizing ligands. This comprehensive review explores the intricate interplay between miRNAs and unwanted-soluble receptors in the context of cancer biology. This study provides an analysis of the regulatory interactions between miRNAs and these receptors, elucidating how miRNAs can either suppress or enhance their expression. MiRNAs can directly target receptor transcripts, thereby regulating soluble receptor levels. They also modulate the proteolytic cleavage of membrane-bound receptors into soluble forms by targeting sheddases, such as ADAMs and MMPs. Furthermore, the review delves into the therapeutic potential of manipulating miRNAs to modulate unwanted soluble receptors. Various strategies, including synthetic miRNA mimics or anti-miRNAs, hold promise for restoring or inhibiting miRNA function to counteract aberrant receptor activity. Moreover, exploring miRNA-based delivery systems may provide targeted and precise therapies that minimizing off-target effects. In conclusion, this review sheds light on the intricate regulatory networks involving miRNAs and unwanted soluble receptors in cancer biology thereby uncovering novel therapeutic targets, and paving the way for developing innovative anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Hosseinpour-Soleimani
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences and Tissue Engineering, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Salmasi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Younes Ghasemi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amir Tajbakhsh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences And, Technologies, Shiraz University Of, Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 71362 81407, Iran
| | - Amir Savardashtaki
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences And, Technologies, Shiraz University Of, Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 71362 81407, Iran
- Infertility Research Center, Shiraz University Med Ical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Zhang JY, Ren CQ, Cao YN, Ren Y, Zou L, Zhou C, Peng LX. Role of MicroRNAs in Dietary Interventions for Obesity and Obesity-Related Diseases. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:14396-14412. [PMID: 37782460 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c03042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Obesity and related metabolic syndromes pose a serious threat to human health and quality of life. A proper diet is a safe and effective strategy to prevent and control obesity, thus maintaining overall health. However, no consensus exists on the connotations of proper diet, and it is attributed to various factors, including "nutritional dark matter" and the "matrix effect" of food. Accumulating evidence confirms that obesity is associated with the in vivo levels of miRNAs, which serve as potential markers and regulatory targets for obesity onset and progression; food-derived miRNAs can regulate host obesity by targeting the related genes or gut microbiota across the animal kingdom. Host miRNAs mediate food nutrient-gut microbiota-obesity interactions. Thus, miRNAs are important correlates of diet and obesity onset. This review outlines the recent findings on miRNA-mediated food interventions for obesity, thereby elucidating their potential applications. Overall, we provide new perspectives and views on the evaluation of dietary nutrition, which may bear important implications for dietary control and obesity prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Yue Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Province Engineering Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao-Qin Ren
- Aba Teachers University, Wenchuan, Sichuan 623002, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya-Nan Cao
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Province Engineering Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanhang Ren
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Province Engineering Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Zou
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Province Engineering Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Province Engineering Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, People's Republic of China
| | - Lian-Xin Peng
- Key Laboratory of Coarse Cereal Processing of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Sichuan Province Engineering Technology Research Center of Coarse Cereal Industrialization, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, People's Republic of China
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Mohammadi-Berenjestanaki H, Mohammadali E, Khasayesi M, Rafiei A, Kashi Z, Mirzaei-Ilali N, Hosseini-Khah Z. Association between angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 gene polymorphism (rs2106809) with severity and outcome of COVID-19 infection. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:6669-6679. [PMID: 37368197 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08493-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Genetic factors play important role in the severity of the COVID-19 infection since SARS-CoV-2 binds to the ACE2 receptor on the surface of host cells. ACE2 polymorphisms that may influence the expression of ACE2 can alter patients' susceptibility to COVID-19 infection or increase the severity of the disease. This study aimed to investigate the association between ACE2 rs2106809 polymorphism and the severity of the COVID-19 infection. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, ACE2 rs2106809 polymorphism was assessed in 142 COVID-19 patients. The disease was confirmed according to clinical symptoms, imaging, and laboratory findings. The severity of the disease was graded as severe versus non-severe based on the CDC. Genomic DNA was extracted from the whole blood and PCR- RFLP was performed to genotype the ACE2-rs2106809 with specific primers and Taq1 restriction enzyme. RESULTS G/G genotype was significantly associated with COVID-19 severity (44.4% in severe vs. 17.5% in non-severe, OR: 4.1; 95%CI: 1.8-9.5, p = 0.0007). Patients with the G/G genotype need more mechanical ventilation (p = 0.021). ACE2 expression in patients carrying the A/G genotype was higher in the severe compared to the non-severe form of the disease (2.99 ± 0.99 vs. 2.21 ± 1.1), but it was not statistically significant (p = 0.9). CONCLUSION The G allele and G/G genotype of ACE2 rs2106809 is associated with more severe COVID-19 and adverse disease outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elaheh Mohammadali
- Diabetes Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mina Khasayesi
- Diabetes Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Alireza Rafiei
- Department of Immunology, Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Zahra Kashi
- Diabetes Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | | | - Zahra Hosseini-Khah
- Diabetes Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
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Al-Mahayni S, Ali M, Khan M, Jamsheer F, Moin ASM, Butler AE. Glycemia-Induced miRNA Changes: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087488. [PMID: 37108651 PMCID: PMC10144997 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087488] [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: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes is a rapidly increasing global health concern that significantly strains the health system due to its downstream complications. Dysregulation in glycemia represents one of the fundamental obstacles to achieving glycemic control in diabetic patients. Frequent hyperglycemia and/or hypoglycemia events contribute to pathologies that disrupt cellular and metabolic processes, which may contribute to the development of macrovascular and microvascular complications, worsening the disease burden and mortality. miRNAs are small single-stranded non-coding RNAs that regulate cellular protein expression and have been linked to various diseases, including diabetes mellitus. miRNAs have proven useful in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of diabetes and its complications. There is a vast body of literature examining the role of miRNA biomarkers in diabetes, aiming for earlier diagnoses and improved treatment for diabetic patients. This article reviews the most recent literature discussing the role of specific miRNAs in glycemic control, platelet activity, and macrovascular and microvascular complications. Our review examines the different miRNAs involved in the pathological processes leading to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, such as endothelial dysfunction, pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction, and insulin resistance. Furthermore, we discuss the potential applications of miRNAs as next-generation biomarkers in diabetes with the aim of preventing, treating, and reversing diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Al-Mahayni
- School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Bahrain, Busaiteen 15503, Bahrain
| | - Mohamed Ali
- School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Bahrain, Busaiteen 15503, Bahrain
| | - Muhammad Khan
- School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Bahrain, Busaiteen 15503, Bahrain
| | - Fatema Jamsheer
- School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Bahrain, Busaiteen 15503, Bahrain
| | - Abu Saleh Md Moin
- Research Department, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Bahrain, Busaiteen 15503, Bahrain
| | - Alexandra E Butler
- Research Department, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Bahrain, Busaiteen 15503, Bahrain
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Khalangot M, Sheichenko N, Gurianov V, Zakharchenko T, Kravchenko V, Tronko M. RAAS inhibitors are associated with a better chance of surviving of inpatients with Covid-19 without a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, compared with similar patients who did not require antihypertensive therapy or were treated with other antihypertensives. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1077959. [PMID: 36755914 PMCID: PMC9900734 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1077959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The effect of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors in combination with COVID-19 and diabetes mellitus (DM) remains unknown. We assessed the risk of death in COVID-19 inpatients based on the presence or absence of DM, arterial hypertension (AH) and the use of RAAS inhibitors or other antihypertensives. METHODS The results of treatment of all adult PCR-confirmed COVID-19 inpatients (n = 1097, women 63.9%) from 02/12/2020 to 07/01/2022 are presented. The presence of DM at the time of admission and the category of antihypertensive drugs during hospital stay were noted. Leaving the hospital due to recovery or death was considered as a treatment outcome. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the risk of death. Patients with COVID-19 without AH were considered the reference group. RESULTS DM was known in 150 of 1,097 patients with COVID-19 (13.7%). Mortality among DM inpatients was higher: 20.0% vs. 12.4% respectively (p=0.014). Male gender, age, fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and antihypertensives were independently associated with the risk of dying in patients without DM. In DM group such independent association was confirmed for FPG and treatment of AH. We found a reduction in the risk of death for COVID-19 inpatients without DM, who received RAAS inhibitors compared with the corresponding risk of normotensive inpatients, who did not receive antihypertensives: OR 0.22 (95% CI 0.07-0.72) adjusted for age, gender and FPG. CONCLUSION This result raises a question about the study of RAAS inhibitors effect in patients with Covid-19 without AH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mykola Khalangot
- Endocrinology, Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Epidemiology of Endocrine Diseases, V. P. Komisarenko Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kyiv, Ukraine
- *Correspondence: Mykola Khalangot,
| | | | - Vitaly Gurianov
- Healthcare Management, Bohomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Tamara Zakharchenko
- Epidemiology of Endocrine Diseases, V. P. Komisarenko Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Victor Kravchenko
- Epidemiology of Endocrine Diseases, V. P. Komisarenko Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Mykola Tronko
- Endocrinology, Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Epidemiology of Endocrine Diseases, V. P. Komisarenko Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kyiv, Ukraine
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Kamthe DD, Sarangkar SD, Dalvi MS, Gosavi NA, Nikam VS. Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 level and its significance in COVID-19 and other diseases patients. Eur J Clin Invest 2023; 53:e13891. [PMID: 36222740 PMCID: PMC9874405 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expressions and its modulation are of great interest as being a key receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) and the protective arm of the rennin-angiotensin axis, maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis. However, ACE2 expressions and their modulation in the healthy and disease background are yet to be explored. METHOD We performed a meta-analysis, extracting the data for ACE2 expression in human subjects with various diseases, including SARS-CoV2 infection without or with co-morbidity. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. Out of 203 studies, 39 met the inclusion criteria with SARS-CoV2 patients without co-morbidity, SARS-CoV2 patients with co-morbidity, cardiovascular (CVD) patients, diabetes patients, kidney disorders patients, pulmonary disease patients, and other viral infections patients. RESULTS Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 expression was significantly increased in all diseases. There was an elevated level of ACE2, especially membrane-bound ACE2, in COVID-19 patients compared to healthy controls. A statistically significant increase in ACE2 expression was observed in CVD patients and patients with other viral diseases compared to healthy subjects. Moreover, subgroup analysis of ACE2 expression as soluble and membrane-bound ACE2 revealed a remarkable increase in membrane-bound ACE2 in CVD patients, patients with viral infection compared to soluble ACE2 and pooled standard mean difference (SMD) with the random-effects model was 0.37 and 2.23 respectively. CONCLUSION It was observed that utilizing the ACE2 by SARS-CoV2 for its entry and its consequence leads to several complications. So there is a need to investigate the underlying mechanism along with novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipanjali Dhananjay Kamthe
- Department of Pharmacology, STES's, Smt. Kashibai Navale College of Pharmacy, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Swapnil Dilip Sarangkar
- Department of Pharmacology, STES's, Smt. Kashibai Navale College of Pharmacy, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Manali Suresh Dalvi
- Department of Pharmacology, STES's, Smt. Kashibai Navale College of Pharmacy, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Netra Arun Gosavi
- Department of Pharmacology, STES's, Smt. Kashibai Navale College of Pharmacy, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Vandana Sandeep Nikam
- Department of Pharmacology, STES's, Smt. Kashibai Navale College of Pharmacy, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
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Leowattana W, Leowattana T, Leowattana P. Circulating angiotensin converting enzyme 2 and COVID-19. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:12470-12483. [PMID: 36579082 PMCID: PMC9791519 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i34.12470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has triggered a widespread outbreak since December 2019. The SARS-CoV-2 infection-related illness has been dubbed the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by the World Health Organization. Asymptomatic and subclinical infections, a severe hyper-inflammatory state, and mortality are all examples of clinical signs. After attaching to the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, the SARS-CoV-2 virus can enter cells through membrane fusion and endocytosis. In addition to enabling viruses to cling to target cells, the connection between the spike protein (S-protein) of SARS-CoV-2 and ACE2 may potentially impair the functionality of ACE2. Blood pressure is controlled by ACE2, which catalyzes the hydrolysis of the active vasoconstrictor octapeptide angiotensin (Ang) II to the heptapeptide Ang-(1-7) and free L-Phe. Additionally, Ang I can be broken down by ACE2 into Ang-(1-9) and metabolized into Ang-(1-7). Numerous studies have demonstrated that circulating ACE2 (cACE2) and Ang-(1-7) have the ability to restore myocardial damage in a variety of cardiovascular diseases and have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-cardiomyocyte fibrosis actions. There have been some suggestions for raising ACE2 expression in COVID-19 patients, which might be used as a target for the creation of novel treatment therapies. With regard to this, SARS-CoV-2 is neutralized by soluble recombinant human ACE2 (hrsACE2), which binds the viral S-protein and reduces damage to a variety of organs, including the heart, kidneys, and lungs, by lowering Ang II concentrations and enhancing conversion to Ang-(1-7). This review aims to investigate how the presence of SARS-CoV-2 and cACE2 are related. Additionally, there will be discussion of a number of potential therapeutic approaches to tip the ACE/ACE-2 balance in favor of the ACE-2/Ang-(1-7) axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wattana Leowattana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tawithep Leowattana
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok 10110, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pathomthep Leowattana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Bangkok, Thailand
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Bani Hani A, Abu Tarboush N, Bani Ali M, Alabhoul F, Alansari F, Abuhani A, Al-Kawak M, Shamoun B, Albdour S, Abu Abeeleh M, Ahram M. Serum ACE2 Level is Associated With Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study. Biomark Insights 2022; 17:11772719221125123. [PMID: 36156891 PMCID: PMC9500304 DOI: 10.1177/11772719221125123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) represents the primary receptor for SARS-CoV-2 to enter endothelial cells, causing coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19). In this study, we investigate the association between circulating ACE2 levels with the severity of COVID-19. Methods: Serum ACE2 levels were measured in 144 COVID-19-positive subjects at hospital admission, and 123 COVID-19-negative control subjects. The association between ACE2 and clinical outcomes was analyzed. Results: About 144 COVID-19 patients and 123 healthy controls data were analyzed, the mean age of patients was 62 years and 50% of them were males. The mean age of the control group was 55 years and 63% were males. ACE-II level was measured and compared between COVID-19 patients and controls and revealed no significant differences (P > .05). ACE-II level was measured in COVID-19 patients and compared between different patient’s subgroups, ACE II level was not dependent on gender, smoking, ACE intake, or comorbidities (P > .05), and was significantly correlated with cardiovascular diseases (CVS) (P-value = .046) ICU admission (P-value = .0007) and Death (P-value = .0082). Conclusion: There was no significant difference between the COVID-19 and Control group, however, ACE2 serum level was significantly higher in patients with COVID-19 who were critically ill or non-survivors, its increased level is also associated with length of stay. Elevated ACE2 level is associated with the severity of COVID-19 disease, and it has the potential to be a predictor of the severity of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amjad Bani Hani
- Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Nafez Abu Tarboush
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mo'ath Bani Ali
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Fahad Alabhoul
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Fahad Alansari
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ahmad Abuhani
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mustafa Al-Kawak
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Badea'a Shamoun
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, Prince Hamza Hospital, Amman, Jordan
| | - Suzan Albdour
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mahmoud Abu Abeeleh
- Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mamoun Ahram
- Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
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Cheong JK, Rajgor D, Lv Y, Chung KY, Tang YC, Cheng H. Noncoding RNome as Enabling Biomarkers for Precision Health. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810390. [PMID: 36142304 PMCID: PMC9499633 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), in the form of structural, catalytic or regulatory RNAs, have emerged to be critical effectors of many biological processes. With the advent of new technologies, we have begun to appreciate how intracellular and circulatory ncRNAs elegantly choreograph the regulation of gene expression and protein function(s) in the cell. Armed with this knowledge, the clinical utility of ncRNAs as biomarkers has been recently tested in a wide range of human diseases. In this review, we examine how critical factors govern the success of interrogating ncRNA biomarker expression in liquid biopsies and tissues to enhance our current clinical management of human diseases, particularly in the context of cancer. We also discuss strategies to overcome key challenges that preclude ncRNAs from becoming standard-of-care clinical biomarkers, including sample pre-analytics standardization, data cross-validation with closer attention to discordant findings, as well as correlation with clinical outcomes. Although harnessing multi-modal information from disease-associated noncoding RNome (ncRNome) in biofluids or in tissues using artificial intelligence or machine learning is at the nascent stage, it will undoubtedly fuel the community adoption of precision population health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jit Kong Cheong
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 117597, Singapore
- Precision Medicine Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 117597, Singapore
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Correspondence: (J.K.C.); (H.C.)
| | | | - Yang Lv
- Precision Medicine Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | | | | | - He Cheng
- MiRXES Lab, Singapore 138667, Singapore
- Correspondence: (J.K.C.); (H.C.)
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Han L, Guo X, Du R, Guo K, Qi P, Bian H. Identification of key genes and pathways related to cancer-associated fibroblasts in chemoresistance of ovarian cancer cells based on GEO and TCGA databases. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:75. [PMID: 35739532 PMCID: PMC9219195 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-01003-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Studies have revealed the implications of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in tumor progression, metastasis, and treatment resistance. Here, in silico analyses were performed to reveal the key genes and pathways by which CAFs affected chemoresistance in ovarian cancer. Methods Candidate genes were obtained from the intersected differentially expressed genes in ovarian cancer, ovarian cancer chemoresistance, and ovarian CAF-related microarrays and chemoresistance-related genes from GeneCards databases. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis were employed to identify the pathways engaged in ovarian cancer chemoresistance and ovarian CAF-related pathways. The top genes with high Degree in the protein-protein interaction network were intersected with the top genes enriched in the key pathways, followed by correlation analyses between key genes and chemotherapeutic response. The expression profiles of key genes were obtained from Human Protein Atlas database and TCGA-ovarian cancer data. Results p53, cell cycle, PI3K-Akt, and MAPK pathways were the key pathways related to the implication of CAFs in ovarian cancer chemoresistance. 276 candidate genes differentially expressed in CAFs were associated with ovarian cancer chemoresistance. MYC, IGF1, HRAS, CCND1, AKT1, RAC1, KDR, FGF2, FAS, and EGFR were enriched in the key chemoresistance-related ways. Furthermore, MYC, EGFR, CCND1 exhibited close association with chemotherapeutic response to platinum and showed a high expression in ovarian cancer tissues and platinum-resistant ovarian cancer cells. Conclusion The study suggests the key genes (MYC, EGFR, and CCND1) and pathways (p53, cell cycle, PI3K-Akt, and MAPK) responsible for the effect of CAFs on ovarian cancer chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Han
- Zhang Zhongjing School of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, 473004, PR China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, No. 80, Changjiang Road, Nanyang, 473004, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Xiaojuan Guo
- Zhang Zhongjing School of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, 473004, PR China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, No. 80, Changjiang Road, Nanyang, 473004, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Ruijuan Du
- Zhang Zhongjing School of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, 473004, PR China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, No. 80, Changjiang Road, Nanyang, 473004, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Kelei Guo
- Zhang Zhongjing School of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, 473004, PR China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, No. 80, Changjiang Road, Nanyang, 473004, Henan Province, PR China
| | - Pei Qi
- Nanyang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Nanyang, 473007, PR China
| | - Hua Bian
- Zhang Zhongjing School of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, 473004, PR China. .,Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, No. 80, Changjiang Road, Nanyang, 473004, Henan Province, PR China.
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12
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Bueno LCM, Paim LR, Minin EOZ, da Silva LM, Mendes PR, Kiyota TA, Schreiber AZ, Bombassaro B, Mansour E, Moretti ML, Chow JTS, Salmena L, Coelho-Filho OR, Velloso LA, Nadruz W, Schreiber R. Increased Serum Mir-150-3p Expression Is Associated with Radiological Lung Injury Improvement in Patients with COVID-19. Viruses 2022; 14:v14071363. [PMID: 35891345 PMCID: PMC9323362 DOI: 10.3390/v14071363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for an atypical pneumonia that can progress to acute lung injury. MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that control specific genes and pathways. This study evaluated the association between circulating miRNAs and lung injury associated with COVID-19. Methods: We evaluated lung injury by computed tomography at hospital admission and discharge and the serum expression of 754 miRNAs using the TaqMan OpenArray after hospital discharge in 27 patients with COVID-19. In addition, miR-150-3p was validated by qRT-PCR on serum samples collected at admission and after hospital discharge. Results: OpenArray analysis revealed that seven miRNAs were differentially expressed between groups of patients without radiological lung improvement compared to those with lung improvement at hospital discharge, with three miRNAs being upregulated (miR-548c-3p, miR-212-3p, and miR-548a-3p) and four downregulated (miR-191-5p, miR-151a-3p, miR-92a-3p, and miR-150-3p). Bioinformatics analysis revealed that five of these miRNAs had binding sites in the SARS-CoV-2 genome. Validation of miR-150-3p by qRT-PCR confirmed the OpenArray results. Conclusions: The present study shows the potential association between the serum expression of seven miRNAs and lung injury in patients with COVID-19. Furthermore, increased expression of miR-150 was associated with pulmonary improvement at hospital discharge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa C. M. Bueno
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.C.M.B.); (L.R.P.); (E.O.Z.M.); (L.M.d.S.); (P.R.M.); (T.A.K.); (E.M.); (M.L.M.); (O.R.C.-F.); (L.A.V.); (W.N.)
| | - Layde R. Paim
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.C.M.B.); (L.R.P.); (E.O.Z.M.); (L.M.d.S.); (P.R.M.); (T.A.K.); (E.M.); (M.L.M.); (O.R.C.-F.); (L.A.V.); (W.N.)
| | - Eduarda O. Z. Minin
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.C.M.B.); (L.R.P.); (E.O.Z.M.); (L.M.d.S.); (P.R.M.); (T.A.K.); (E.M.); (M.L.M.); (O.R.C.-F.); (L.A.V.); (W.N.)
| | - Luís Miguel da Silva
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.C.M.B.); (L.R.P.); (E.O.Z.M.); (L.M.d.S.); (P.R.M.); (T.A.K.); (E.M.); (M.L.M.); (O.R.C.-F.); (L.A.V.); (W.N.)
| | - Paulo R. Mendes
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.C.M.B.); (L.R.P.); (E.O.Z.M.); (L.M.d.S.); (P.R.M.); (T.A.K.); (E.M.); (M.L.M.); (O.R.C.-F.); (L.A.V.); (W.N.)
| | - Tatiana A. Kiyota
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.C.M.B.); (L.R.P.); (E.O.Z.M.); (L.M.d.S.); (P.R.M.); (T.A.K.); (E.M.); (M.L.M.); (O.R.C.-F.); (L.A.V.); (W.N.)
| | - Angelica Z. Schreiber
- Department of Clinical Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil;
| | - Bruna Bombassaro
- Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-864, SP, Brazil;
| | - Eli Mansour
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.C.M.B.); (L.R.P.); (E.O.Z.M.); (L.M.d.S.); (P.R.M.); (T.A.K.); (E.M.); (M.L.M.); (O.R.C.-F.); (L.A.V.); (W.N.)
| | - Maria Luiza Moretti
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.C.M.B.); (L.R.P.); (E.O.Z.M.); (L.M.d.S.); (P.R.M.); (T.A.K.); (E.M.); (M.L.M.); (O.R.C.-F.); (L.A.V.); (W.N.)
| | - Jonathan Tak-Sum Chow
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (J.T.-S.C.); (L.S.)
| | - Leonardo Salmena
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (J.T.-S.C.); (L.S.)
| | - Otavio R. Coelho-Filho
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.C.M.B.); (L.R.P.); (E.O.Z.M.); (L.M.d.S.); (P.R.M.); (T.A.K.); (E.M.); (M.L.M.); (O.R.C.-F.); (L.A.V.); (W.N.)
| | - Licio A. Velloso
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.C.M.B.); (L.R.P.); (E.O.Z.M.); (L.M.d.S.); (P.R.M.); (T.A.K.); (E.M.); (M.L.M.); (O.R.C.-F.); (L.A.V.); (W.N.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (J.T.-S.C.); (L.S.)
| | - Wilson Nadruz
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.C.M.B.); (L.R.P.); (E.O.Z.M.); (L.M.d.S.); (P.R.M.); (T.A.K.); (E.M.); (M.L.M.); (O.R.C.-F.); (L.A.V.); (W.N.)
| | - Roberto Schreiber
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil; (L.C.M.B.); (L.R.P.); (E.O.Z.M.); (L.M.d.S.); (P.R.M.); (T.A.K.); (E.M.); (M.L.M.); (O.R.C.-F.); (L.A.V.); (W.N.)
- Correspondence:
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13
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Krenn K, Tretter V, Kraft F, Ullrich R. The Renin-Angiotensin System as a Component of Biotrauma in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Front Physiol 2022; 12:806062. [PMID: 35498160 PMCID: PMC9043684 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.806062] [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: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a major concern in critical care medicine with a high mortality of over 30%. Injury to the lungs is caused not only by underlying pathological conditions such as pneumonia, sepsis, or trauma, but also by ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) resulting from high positive pressure levels and a high inspiratory oxygen fraction. Apart from mechanical factors that stress the lungs with a specific physical power and cause volutrauma and barotrauma, it is increasingly recognized that lung injury is further aggravated by biological mediators. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased interest in the role of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in the context of ARDS, as the RAS enzyme angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 serves as the primary cell entry receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus (CoV)-2. Even before this pandemic, studies have documented the involvement of the RAS in VILI and its dysregulation in clinical ARDS. In recent years, analytical tools for RAS investigation have made major advances based on the optimized precision and detail of mass spectrometry. Given that many clinical trials with pharmacological interventions in ARDS were negative, RAS-modifying drugs may represent an interesting starting point for novel therapeutic approaches. Results from animal models have highlighted the potential of RAS-modifying drugs to prevent VILI or treat ARDS. While these drugs have beneficial pulmonary effects, the best targets and application forms for intervention still have to be determined to avoid negative effects on the circulation in clinical settings.
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14
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Elemam NM, Hasswan H, Aljaibeji H, Sharif-Askari NS, Halwani R, Taneera J, Sulaiman N. Profiling Levels of Serum microRNAs and Soluble ACE2 in COVID-19 Patients. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12040575. [PMID: 35455065 PMCID: PMC9027848 DOI: 10.3390/life12040575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The main mechanism of viral entry in COVID-19 infection is through the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor present in the lungs. Numerous studies suggested a clinical significance of risk factors, such as gender, obesity, and diabetes on the soluble form of ACE2 (sACE2) and related miRNAs in COVID-19 infection. This study aims to investigate the serum level of sACE2 and 4 miRNAs (miR-421, miR-3909, miR-212-5p, and miR-4677-3p) in COVID-19 patients and assess their associations with clinicopathological parameters. Methods: Serum samples were collected from non-diabetic and diabetic COVID-19 patients and healthy controls. sACE2 levels were quantified using ELISA, and serum miRNA levels were measured using qPCR. In addition, laboratory blood tests were retrieved from the clinical records of COVID-19 patients. Results: sACE2 levels were upregulated in COVID-19 patients regardless of sex, diabetes status, or obesity. Furthermore, the four investigated miRNAs were upregulated in COVID-19 patients and were positively correlated with each other. Furthermore, miR-421, miR-3909, and miR-4677-3p were positively associated with sACE2, suggesting a strong link between these markers. Notably, miR-212-5p was selectively upregulated in moderate, male, and non-obese COVID-19 patients. Interestingly, miR-212-5p was correlated with D-dimer, while sACE2 was correlated with coagulation tests, such as aPTT and platelets, indicating their potential as markers of coagulopathy in COVID-19. Additionally, there was a positive correlation between sACE2 and C-reactive protein in diabetic COVID-19 patients, indicating a promising role of this marker in the inflammatory status of these patients. Conclusion: sACE2 and its regulatory miRNAs were upregulated and correlated with laboratory investigations of COVID-19 patients, thus indicating their clinical significance as biomarkers in COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha Mousaad Elemam
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (H.H.); (N.S.S.-A.); (R.H.); (J.T.)
| | - Hind Hasswan
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (H.H.); (N.S.S.-A.); (R.H.); (J.T.)
| | - Hayat Aljaibeji
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Narjes Saheb Sharif-Askari
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (H.H.); (N.S.S.-A.); (R.H.); (J.T.)
| | - Rabih Halwani
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (H.H.); (N.S.S.-A.); (R.H.); (J.T.)
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Prince Abdullah Ben Khaled Celiac Disease Chair, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jalal Taneera
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (H.H.); (N.S.S.-A.); (R.H.); (J.T.)
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nabil Sulaiman
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (H.H.); (N.S.S.-A.); (R.H.); (J.T.)
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Baker/IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne 3004, Australia
- Correspondence:
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15
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Barrow K, Wang Y, Yu R, Zhu J, Yang G. H 2S protects from oxidative stress-driven ACE2 expression and cardiac aging. Mol Cell Biochem 2022; 477:1393-1403. [PMID: 35147902 PMCID: PMC8831182 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04386-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Cystathionine gamma-lyase (CSE)-derived hydrogen sulfide (H2S) plays an essential role in preserving cardiac functions. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) acts as the negative regulator of the renin-angiotensin system, exerting anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory properties within the body. The interplays of CSE/H2S signaling and ACE2 in cardiac aging are unclear. In this study, the regulatory roles of H2S on ACE2 expression in mouse heart tissue and rat cardiomyocytes under different stress conditions were investigated. It was found that ACE2 protein level was lower in heart tissues from old mice (56-week-old) than young mice (8-week-old), and the knockout of CSE (CSE KO) induced moderate oxidative stress and further inhibited ACE2 protein level in mouse hearts at both young and old age. Incubation of rat cardiac cells (H9C2) with a low dose of H2O2 (50 µM) suppressed ACE2 protein level and induced cellular senescence, which was completely reversed by co-incubation with 30 µM NaHS (a H2S donor). Prolonged nutrient excess is an increased risk of heart disorders by causing metabolic dysfunction and cardiac remodeling. We further found high-fat diet feeding stimulated ACE2 expression and induced severe oxidative stress in CSE KO heart in comparison with wild-type heart. Lipid overload in H9C2 cells to mimic a status of nutrient excess also enhanced the expression of ACE2 protein and induced severe oxidative stress and cell senescence, which were significantly attenuated by the supplementation of exogenous H2S. Furthermore, the manipulation of ACE2 expression partially abolished the protective role of H2S against cellular senescence. These results demonstrate the dynamic roles of H2S in the maintenance of ACE2 levels under different levels of oxidative stress, pointing to the potential implications in targeting the CSE/H2S system for the interruption of aging and diabetes-related heart disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalem Barrow
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada.,Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research Unit, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada
| | - Yuehong Wang
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada.,Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research Unit, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada
| | - Ruihuan Yu
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada.,Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research Unit, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada
| | - Jiechun Zhu
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada.,Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research Unit, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada
| | - Guangdong Yang
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada. .,Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research Unit, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada.
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16
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Izquierdo AG, Carreira MC, Boughanem H, Moreno-Navarrete JM, Nicoletti CF, Oliver P, de Luis D, Nonino CB, Portillo MP, Martinez-Olmos MA, Fernandez-Real JM, Tinahones FJ, Martinez JA, Macias-González M, Casanueva FF, Crujeiras AB. Adipose tissue and blood leukocytes ACE2 DNA methylation in obesity and after weight loss. Eur J Clin Invest 2022; 52:e13685. [PMID: 34582564 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity was consistently associated with a poor prognosis in patients with COVID-19. Epigenetic mechanisms were proposed as the link between obesity and comorbidities risk. AIM To evaluate the methylation levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) gene, the main entry receptor of SARS-CoV-2, in different depots of adipose tissue (AT) and leukocytes (PBMCs) in obesity and after weight loss therapy based on a very-low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD), a balanced hypocaloric diet (HCD) or bariatric surgery (BS). MATERIALS AND METHODS DNA methylation levels of ACE2 were extracted from our data sets generated by the hybridization of subcutaneous (SAT) (n = 32) or visceral (VAT; n = 32) adipose tissue, and PBMCs (n = 34) samples in Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChips. Data were compared based on the degree of obesity and after 4-6 months of weight loss either by following a nutritional or surgical treatment and correlated with ACE2 transcript levels. RESULTS As compared with normal weight, VAT from patients with obesity showed higher ACE2 methylation levels. These differences were mirrored in PBMCs but not in SAT. The observed obesity-associated methylation of ACE2 was reversed after VLCKD and HCD but not after BS. Among the studied CpG sites, cg16734967 and cg21598868, located at the promoter, were the most affected and correlated with BMI. The observed DNA methylation pattern was inversely correlated with ACE2 expression. CONCLUSION Obesity-related VAT shows hypermethylation and downregulation of the ACE2 gene that is mirrored in PBMCs and is restored after nutritional weight reduction therapy. The results warrant the necessity to further evaluate its implication for COVID-19 pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea G Izquierdo
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Endocrine Division, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS) and Santiago de Compostela University (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marcos C Carreira
- Endocrine Division, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS) and Santiago de Compostela University (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain.,Molecular Endocrinology Group, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS) and Santiago de Compostela University (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Hatim Boughanem
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Malaga (IBIMA), Malaga, Spain
| | - Jose M Moreno-Navarrete
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Girona (IdIBGi) and Universitat de Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Carolina F Nicoletti
- Department of Internal Medicine, Laboratory of Nutrigenomic Studies, Ribeirao Preto Medical School (FMRP) University of Sao Paulo (USP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paula Oliver
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain.,Nutrigenomics and Obesity Group, University of the Balearic Islands and Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Palma, Spain
| | - Daniel de Luis
- Center of Investigation of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Medicine School and Department of Endocrinology and Investigation, Hospital Clinico Universitario, University of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Carla B Nonino
- Department of Internal Medicine, Laboratory of Nutrigenomic Studies, Ribeirao Preto Medical School (FMRP) University of Sao Paulo (USP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria P Portillo
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain.,Nutrition and Obesity Group, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Lucio Lascaray Research Institute and Bioaraba Health Research Institute, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria, Spain
| | - Miguel A Martinez-Olmos
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Endocrine Division, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS) and Santiago de Compostela University (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose M Fernandez-Real
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Girona (IdIBGi) and Universitat de Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Francisco J Tinahones
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Malaga (IBIMA), Malaga, Spain
| | - J Alfredo Martinez
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, Centre for Nutrition Research, Navarra Institute for Health Research, University of Navarra (UNAV) and IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain.,Nutritional Genomics and Epigenomics Group, IMDEA Food, CEI UAM + CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Macias-González
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Malaga (IBIMA), Malaga, Spain
| | - Felipe F Casanueva
- Endocrine Division, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS) and Santiago de Compostela University (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain.,Molecular Endocrinology Group, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS) and Santiago de Compostela University (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Ana B Crujeiras
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Endocrine Division, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS) and Santiago de Compostela University (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain
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The role of microRNAs in solving COVID-19 puzzle from infection to therapeutics: A mini-review. Virus Res 2022; 308:198631. [PMID: 34788642 PMCID: PMC8590742 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2021.198631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, one of the major global health concerns is coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Even though numerous treatments and vaccines to combat this virus are currently under development, the detailed molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of this disease are yet to be elucidated to design future therapeutic tools against SARS-CoV-2 variants. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small (20-24 nucleotides), non-coding RNA molecules that regulate post-transcriptional gene expression. Recently, it has been demonstrated that both host and viral-encoded miRNAs are crucial for the successful infection of SARS-CoV-2. For instance, dysregulation of miRNAs that modulate multiple genes expressed in COVID-19 patients with comorbidities (e.g., type 2 diabetes, lung adenocarcinoma, and cerebrovascular disorders) could affect the severity of the disease. Thus, altered expression levels of circulating miRNAs might be helpful to diagnose this illness and forecast whether a COVID-19 patient could develop a severe state of the disease. Besides, researchers have found a number of miRNAs could inhibit the expression of proteins, such as ACE2, TMPRSS2, spike, and Nsp12, involved in the life cycle of SARS-CoV-2. Accordingly, miRNAs represent potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for this devastating viral disease. Therefore, in this current review, we present the recent discoveries regarding the clinical relevance and biological roles of miRNAs in COVID-19.
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18
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Padilla-Martinez F, Wojciechowska G, Szczerbinski L, Kretowski A. Circulating Nucleic Acid-Based Biomarkers of Type 2 Diabetes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010295. [PMID: 35008723 PMCID: PMC8745431 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a deficiency in how the body regulates glucose. Uncontrolled T2D will result in chronic high blood sugar levels, eventually resulting in T2D complications. These complications, such as kidney, eye, and nerve damage, are even harder to treat. Identifying individuals at high risk of developing T2D and its complications is essential for early prevention and treatment. Numerous studies have been done to identify biomarkers for T2D diagnosis and prognosis. This review focuses on recent T2D biomarker studies based on circulating nucleic acids using different omics technologies: genomics, transcriptomics, and epigenomics. Omics studies have profiled biomarker candidates from blood, urine, and other non-invasive samples. Despite methodological differences, several candidate biomarkers were reported for the risk and diagnosis of T2D, the prognosis of T2D complications, and pharmacodynamics of T2D treatments. Future studies should be done to validate the findings in larger samples and blood-based biomarkers in non-invasive samples to support the realization of precision medicine for T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Padilla-Martinez
- Clinical Research Centre, Medical University of Bialystok, 15276 Białystok, Poland; (F.P.-M.); (L.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Gladys Wojciechowska
- Clinical Research Centre, Medical University of Bialystok, 15276 Białystok, Poland; (F.P.-M.); (L.S.); (A.K.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Lukasz Szczerbinski
- Clinical Research Centre, Medical University of Bialystok, 15276 Białystok, Poland; (F.P.-M.); (L.S.); (A.K.)
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, 15276 Białystok, Poland
| | - Adam Kretowski
- Clinical Research Centre, Medical University of Bialystok, 15276 Białystok, Poland; (F.P.-M.); (L.S.); (A.K.)
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Bialystok, 15276 Białystok, Poland
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Li M, Zeng Z, Zhang A, Ye Q, Su S, Xia T. WGCNA Analysis Identifies Polycystic Ovary Syndrome-Associated Circular RNAs That Interact with RNA-Binding Proteins and Sponge miRNAs. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:8737-8751. [PMID: 34849014 PMCID: PMC8627285 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s335108] [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] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Dysfunction of cumulus granulosa cells has been suggested as a contributor to abnormal folliculogenesis and the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Recent studies indicate that circular RNAs (circRNAs) exert important roles for diseases. We aimed to screen crucial circRNAs of PCOS patients and predict their functions. Methods The high-throughput datasets of circRNAs (GSE145296), microRNAs (miRNAs; GSE72274) and messenger RNAs (mRNAs; GSE155489) in cumulus cells of PCOS patients and controls were collected from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Differentially expressed circRNAs (DECs), miRNAs (DEMs) and protein-coding genes (DEGs) were identified by the limma method. The weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was conducted using the DECs to mine PCOS-associated modules. Hub DECs in modules were defined as both of |gene significance| and |module membership| >0.8. The downstream effectors of hub DECs were predicted by constructing DEC-DEM-DEG ceRNA and DEC-RNA binding protein (RBP) networks. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses were performed to explore the functions of circRNAs. Results A total of 3614 DECs, 3544 DEGs and 1469 DEMs were identified between PCOS and controls. WGCNA analysis yielded five PCOS-related modules, of which 190 DECs were hub circRNAs. Seventeen hub DECs, nine DEMs, and 315 DEGs were identified to construct the ceRNA network, while 56 hub DECs and two DEGs (MBNL2, RBPMS) constituted the circRNA-RBP network. Five hub DECs (hsa_circ_0063309, hsa_circ_0054275, hsa_circ_0056196, hsa_circ_0018108 and hsa_circ_0070987) were overlapped between ceRNA and DEC-MBNL2 regulatory networks and thus they may be pivotal for PCOS. Furthermore, hsa_circ_0099109 could interact with the RBP gene RBPMS. Function analyses showed these circRNAs were inflammation-, apoptosis- or steroidogenesis-related. Conclusion Aberrant expression of six circRNAs that function as RBP regulators or miRNA sponges may be possible mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of PCOS by affecting apoptosis and steroidogenesis in cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxiong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi Zeng
- The Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510000, People's Republic of China
| | - Aiqing Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingjian Ye
- Department of Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, People's Republic of China
| | - Shujun Su
- Department of Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, People's Republic of China
| | - Tingting Xia
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510630, People's Republic of China
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20
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Chen F, Zhang Y, Li X, Li W, Liu X, Xue X. The Impact of ACE2 Polymorphisms on COVID-19 Disease: Susceptibility, Severity, and Therapy. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:753721. [PMID: 34746028 PMCID: PMC8569405 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.753721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has currently spread worldwide, leading to high morbidity and mortality. As the putative receptor of SARS-CoV-2, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is widely distributed in various tissues and organs of the human body. Simultaneously, ACE2 acts as the physiological counterbalance of ACE providing homeostatic regulation of circulating angiotensin II levels. Given that some ACE2 variants are known to cause an increase in the ligand-receptor affinity, their roles in acquisition, progression and severity of COVID-19 disease have aroused widespread concerns. Therefore, we summarized the latest literature and explored how ACE2 variants and epigenetic factors influence an individual’s susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection and disease outcome in aspects of ethnicity, gender and age. Meanwhile, the possible mechanisms for these phenomena were discussed. Notably, recombinant human ACE2 and ACE2-derived peptides may have special benefits for combating SARS-CoV-2 variants and further studies are warranted to confirm their effects in later stages of the disease process. As the uncertainty regarding the severity and transmissibility of disease rises, a more in-depth understanding of the host genetics and functional characteristics of ACE2 variants will not only help explain individual clinical differences of the disease, but also contribute to providing effective measures to develop solutions and manage future outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Chen
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Yankun Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xiaoyun Li
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Wen Li
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xuan Liu
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xinyu Xue
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
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21
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Upregulated miR-200c is associated with downregulation of the functional receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 ACE2 in individuals with obesity. Int J Obes (Lond) 2021; 46:238-241. [PMID: 34625660 PMCID: PMC8499608 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-021-00984-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Obesity is a risk factor for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection, with studies demonstrating the prevalence of individuals with obesity admitted with COVID-19 ranging between 30 and 60%. We determined whether early changes in microRNAs (miRNAs) are associated with dysregulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the specific functional receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. ACE2 is a membrane-bound enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of angiotensin II to angiotensin 1–7 the latter having cardioprotective and vasorelaxation effects. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis of plasma samples for circulating miRNAs showed upregulation of miR-200c and miR-let-7b in otherwise healthy individuals with obesity. This was associated with significant downregulation of ACE2, a direct target for both miRNAs, in individuals with obesity. Correlation analysis confirmed a significant negative correlation between ACE2 and both the miRNAs. Studies showed that despite being the functional receptor, inhibition/downregulation of ACE2 did not reduce the severity of COVID-19 infection. In contrast, increased angiotensin II following inhibition of ACE2 may increase the severity of the disease. Taken together, our novel results identify that upregulation of miR-200c may increase the susceptibility of individuals with obesity to COVID-19. Considering miRNA are the earliest molecular regulators, the level of circulating miR-200c could be a potential biomarker in the early identification of those at the risk of severe COVID-19.
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