1
|
Saulnier NM, Thorne DM, Bablu FE, Suzuki AM, Khan RL, Oliveira KX, Suzuki YJ. Characterizations of angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) peptidase activity. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 761:110167. [PMID: 39349131 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.110167] [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: 06/09/2024] [Revised: 09/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/27/2024] [Indexed: 10/02/2024]
Abstract
Angiotensin (Ang) II (1-8) is a potent vasoconstrictor known for its role in hypertension. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2) converts Ang II (1-8) to a vasodilator Ang (1-7) by removing the carboxy-terminal Phe. ACE2 more recently gained attention as the receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that caused the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Given the pathophysiological importance of ACE2, the present study examined the mechanism of ACE2 catalytic activity by comparing the ability of angiotensin molecules of various lengths to compete with the artificial fluorogenic substrate. The Fluorimetric SensoLyte 390 ACE2 Activity Assay uses an Mca/Dnp fluorescence resonance energy transfer peptide as the substrate. Results showed that the natural substrate Ang II (1-8) competed with the fluorogenic substrate, reducing the fluorescence signals. Deletion of C-terminal Phe resulted in the loss of the ability to compete with the artificial substrate, as shown by the actions of Ang (1-7), Ang (2-7), and Ang (5-7). By contrast, the loss of N-terminal Asp potentiated the ability to compete with the substrate as seen by the action of Ang III (2-8). However, the loss of two amino acids (Asp-Arg) from the N-terminus reduced the ability to compete with the substrate as observed by the actions of Ang IV (3-8) and Ang (5-8). Ang I (1-10) and Ang (1-9) did not strongly compete with the substrate. Interestingly, shorter peptides Ang (1-5) and Ang (1-4) potentiated the ACE2 activity. These results suggest that Ang II and Ang III are the best natural substrates for ACE2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie M Saulnier
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC 20007, USA
| | - Devyn M Thorne
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC 20007, USA
| | - Fariha E Bablu
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC 20007, USA
| | - Alessia M Suzuki
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC 20007, USA
| | - Rafa L Khan
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC 20007, USA
| | - Katelin X Oliveira
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC 20007, USA
| | - Yuichiro J Suzuki
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC 20007, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Abstract
Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic is caused by SARS-CoV-2 that has infected more than 600 million people and killed more than 6 million people worldwide. This infection affects mainly certain groups of people that have high susceptibility to present severe COVID-19 due to comorbidities. Moreover, the long-COVID-19 comprises a series of symptoms that may remain in some patients for months after infection that further compromises their health. Thus, since this pandemic is profoundly affecting health, economy, and social life of societies, a deeper understanding of viral replication cycle could help to envisage novel therapeutic alternatives that limit or stop COVID-19. Several findings have unexpectedly discovered that mitochondria play a critical role in SARS-CoV-2 cell infection. Indeed, it has been suggested that this organelle could be the origin of its replication niches, the double membrane vesicles (DMV). In this regard, mitochondria derived vesicles (MDV), involved in mitochondria quality control, discovered almost 15 years ago, comprise a subpopulation characterized by a double membrane. MDV shedding is induced by mitochondrial stress, and it has a fast assembly dynamic, reason that perhaps has precluded their identification in electron microscopy or tomography studies. These and other features of MDV together with recent SARS-CoV-2 protein interactome and other findings link SARS-CoV-2 to mitochondria and support that these vesicles are the precursors of SARS-CoV-2 induced DMV. In this work, the morphological, biochemical, molecular, and cellular evidence that supports this hypothesis is reviewed and integrated into the current model of SARS-CoV-2 cell infection. In this scheme, some relevant questions are raised as pending topics for research that would help in the near future to test this hypothesis. The intention of this work is to provide a novel framework that could open new possibilities to tackle SARS-CoV-2 pandemic through mitochondria and DMV targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pavel Montes de Oca-B
- Neurociencia Cognitiva, Instituto de Fisiologia-UNAM, CDMX, CDMX, 04510, Mexico
- Unidad de Neurobiologia Dinamica, Instituto Nacional de Neurologia y Neurocirugia, CDMX, CDMX, 14269, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang S, El-Deiry WS. Transfected SARS-CoV-2 spike DNA for mammalian cell expression inhibits p53 activation of p21(WAF1), TRAIL Death Receptor DR5 and MDM2 proteins in cancer cells and increases cancer cell viability after chemotherapy exposure. Oncotarget 2024; 15:275-284. [PMID: 38709242 PMCID: PMC11073320 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28582] [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: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and COVID-19 infection has led to worsened outcomes for patients with cancer. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein mediates host cell infection and cell-cell fusion that causes stabilization of tumor suppressor p53 protein. In-silico analysis previously suggested that SARS-CoV-2 spike interacts with p53 directly but this putative interaction has not been demonstrated in cells. We examined the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 spike, p53 and MDM2 (E3 ligase, which mediates p53 degradation) in cancer cells using an immunoprecipitation assay. We observed that SARS-CoV-2 spike protein interrupts p53-MDM2 protein interaction but did not detect SARS-CoV-2 spike bound with p53 protein in the cancer cells. We further observed that SARS-CoV-2 spike suppresses p53 transcriptional activity in cancer cells including after nutlin exposure of wild-type p53-, spike-expressing tumor cells and inhibits chemotherapy-induced p53 gene activation of p21(WAF1), TRAIL Death Receptor DR5 and MDM2. The suppressive effect of SARS-CoV-2 spike on p53-dependent gene activation provides a potential molecular mechanism by which SARS-CoV-2 infection may impact tumorigenesis, tumor progression and chemotherapy sensitivity. In fact, cisplatin-treated tumor cells expressing spike were found to have increased cell viability as compared to control cells. Further observations on γ-H2AX expression in spike-expressing cells treated with cisplatin may indicate altered DNA damage sensing in the DNA damage response pathway. The preliminary observations reported here warrant further studies to unravel the impact of SARS-CoV-2 and its various encoded proteins including spike on pathways of tumorigenesis and response to cancer therapeutics. More efforts should be directed at studying the effects of the SARS-CoV-2 spike and other viral proteins on host DNA damage sensing, response and repair mechanisms. A goal would be to understand the structural basis for maximal anti-viral immunity while minimizing suppression of host defenses including the p53 DNA damage response and tumor suppression pathway. Such directions are relevant and important including not only in the context of viral infection and mRNA vaccines in general but also for patients with cancer who may be receiving cytotoxic or other cancer treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengliang Zhang
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Legorreta Cancer Center at Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Wafik S. El-Deiry
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Legorreta Cancer Center at Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Hematology/Oncology Division, Department of Medicine, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Olszewska B, Zaryczańska A, Nowicki RJ, Sokołowska-Wojdyło M. Rare COVID-19 vaccine side effects got lost in the shuffle. Primary cutaneous lymphomas following COVID-19 vaccination: a systematic review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1325478. [PMID: 38660418 PMCID: PMC11041019 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1325478] [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: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction COVID-19 vaccines are generally safe and effective; however, they are associated with various vaccine-induced cutaneous side effects. Several reported cases of primary cutaneous lymphomas (CLs) following the COVID-19 vaccination have raised concerns about a possible association. This systematic review aims to investigate and elucidate the potential link between CLs and SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Methods We performed a systematic literature search on PubMed, EBSCO and Scopus from January 01, 2019, to March 01, 2023, and analyzed studies based on determined eligibility criteria. The systematic review was performed based on the PRISMA protocol. Results A total of 12 articles (encompassing 24 patients) were included in this analysis. The majority of CLs were indolent cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCLs) (66,7%; 16/24), with Lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) being the most common type (33,3%; 8/24). Most patients (79,2%; 19/24) developed lesions after receiving the COVID-19 mRNA-based vaccines, and predominantly after the first immunization dose (54,2%; 13/24). The presented CLs cases exhibited a tendency to exacerbate following subsequent COVID-19 vaccinations. Nevertheless, CLs were characterized by a favorable course, leading to remission in most cases. Conclusion The available literature suggests an association between the occurrence and exacerbation of CLs with immune stimulation following COVID-19 vaccination. We hypothesize that post-vaccine CLs result from an interplay between cytokines and disrupted signaling pathways triggered by vaccine components, concurrently playing a pivotal role in the pathomechanism of CLs. However, establishing a definitive causal relationship between these events is currently challenging, primarily due to the relatively low rate of reported post-vaccine CLs. Nonetheless, these cases should not be disregarded, and patients with a history of lymphoproliferative disorders require post-COVID-19 vaccination monitoring to control the disease's course.Systematic review registrationwww.researchregistry.com, identifier [1723].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Berenika Olszewska
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ayyubova G, Gychka SG, Nikolaienko SI, Alghenaim FA, Teramoto T, Shults NV, Suzuki YJ. The Role of Furin in the Pathogenesis of COVID-19-Associated Neurological Disorders. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:279. [PMID: 38398788 PMCID: PMC10890058 DOI: 10.3390/life14020279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders have been reported in a large number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients, suggesting that this disease may have long-term adverse neurological consequences. COVID-19 occurs from infection by a positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The membrane fusion protein of SARS-CoV-2, the spike protein, binds to its human host receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), to initiate membrane fusion between the virus and host cell. The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 contains the furin protease recognition site and its cleavage enhances the infectivity of this virus. The binding of SARS-CoV-2 to the ACE2 receptor has been shown to downregulate ACE2, thereby increasing the levels of pathogenic angiotensin II (Ang II). The furin protease cleaves between the S1 subunit of the spike protein with the binding domain toward ACE2 and the S2 subunit with the transmembrane domain that anchors to the viral membrane, and this activity releases the S1 subunit into the blood circulation. The released S1 subunit of the spike protein also binds to and downregulates ACE2, in turn increasing the level of Ang II. Considering that a viral particle contains many spike protein molecules, furin-dependent cleavage would release many free S1 protein molecules, each of which can downregulate ACE2, while infection with a viral particle only affects one ACE2 molecule. Therefore, the furin-dependent release of S1 protein would dramatically amplify the ability to downregulate ACE2 and produce Ang II. We hypothesize that this amplification mechanism that the virus possesses, but not the infection per se, is the major driving force behind COVID-19-associated neurological disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gunel Ayyubova
- Department of Cytology, Embryology and Histology, Azerbaijan Medical University, Baku AZ1022, Azerbaijan
| | - Sergiy G Gychka
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Bogomolets National Medical University, 01601 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Sofia I Nikolaienko
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Bogomolets National Medical University, 01601 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Fada A Alghenaim
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Tadahisa Teramoto
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Nataliia V Shults
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Yuichiro J Suzuki
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pal R, Ferrari MG, Honda-Okubo Y, Wattay L, Caple J, Navarrete J, Andersen H, Petrovsky N. Study of immunogenicity and efficacy against Omicron BA.5 of recombinant protein-based COVID-19 vaccine delivered by intramuscular and mucosal routes in nonhuman primates. Vaccine 2024; 42:1122-1135. [PMID: 38262808 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With SARS-CoV-2 continuing to evolve, there is a need to adapt COVID-19 vaccines to enhance mucosal immunity and better address immune-evasive variants. This pilot study was performed in mice and rhesus macaques to compare Advax-adjuvanted monovalent and bivalent recombinant spike protein vaccines, including when delivered via a combination of intramuscular (IM) and intrapulmonary (IPM) or oral routes. METHODS Mice were first used to compare the immunogenicity of monovalent and bivalent vaccines containing a variety of spike protein variants. Then, rhesus macaques (n = 23) were divided into 5 groups to receive COVID-19 vaccines via different routes. Clinical signs, local vaccination site reactions, body weight, food consumption, serum, alveolar lavage, nasal and oral antibody levels, and nasal and alveolar lavage virus loads were assessed in response to a heterologous Omicron BA.5 virus challenge. RESULTS The Wuhan + Mu bivalent vaccine gave the most broadly cross-neutralizing antibody responses. Robust serum neutralizing antibodies against Wuhan, Delta and Lambda variants were obtained, but BA.5 neutralizing antibodies were not detectable pre-challenge. Overall, the IM x3 and the IM x2 plus oral x2 vaccines delivered the best protection, with reduced lung virus load versus unimmunized controls across Days 2, 4 and 7. CONCLUSIONS Advax-adjuvanted monovalent or bivalent recombinant spike protein vaccines given via parenteral and/or mucosal routes protected against a heterologous BA.5 challenge, despite absent serum BA.5 neutralizing antibody, pre-challenge. The possibility of using an oral Advax-adjuvanted protein booster to provide broad protection against newer SARS-CoV-2 variants warrants further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ranajit Pal
- BIOQUAL, Inc., 9600 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD 20850-3336, USA.
| | | | | | - Lauren Wattay
- BIOQUAL, Inc., 9600 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD 20850-3336, USA.
| | - Jesica Caple
- BIOQUAL, Inc., 9600 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD 20850-3336, USA.
| | - Jennifer Navarrete
- BIOQUAL, Inc., 9600 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD 20850-3336, USA.
| | - Hanne Andersen
- BIOQUAL, Inc., 9600 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD 20850-3336, USA.
| | - Nikolai Petrovsky
- Vaxine Pty Ltd., 11-13 Walkley Avenue, Warradale, SA 5046, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Outteridge M, Nunn CM, Devine K, Patel B, McLean GR. Antivirals for Broader Coverage against Human Coronaviruses. Viruses 2024; 16:156. [PMID: 38275966 PMCID: PMC10820748 DOI: 10.3390/v16010156] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses (CoVs) are enveloped positive-sense single-stranded RNA viruses with a genome that is 27-31 kbases in length. Critical genes include the spike (S), envelope (E), membrane (M), nucleocapsid (N) and nine accessory open reading frames encoding for non-structural proteins (NSPs) that have multiple roles in the replication cycle and immune evasion (1). There are seven known human CoVs that most likely appeared after zoonotic transfer, the most recent being SARS-CoV-2, responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Antivirals that have been approved by the FDA for use against COVID-19 such as Paxlovid can target and successfully inhibit the main protease (MPro) activity of multiple human CoVs; however, alternative proteomes encoded by CoV genomes have a closer genetic similarity to each other, suggesting that antivirals could be developed now that target future CoVs. New zoonotic introductions of CoVs to humans are inevitable and unpredictable. Therefore, new antivirals are required to control not only the next human CoV outbreak but also the four common human CoVs (229E, OC43, NL63, HKU1) that circulate frequently and to contain sporadic outbreaks of the severe human CoVs (SARS-CoV, MERS and SARS-CoV-2). The current study found that emerging antiviral drugs, such as Paxlovid, could target other CoVs, but only SARS-CoV-2 is known to be targeted in vivo. Other drugs which have the potential to target other human CoVs are still within clinical trials and are not yet available for public use. Monoclonal antibody (mAb) treatment and vaccines for SARS-CoV-2 can reduce mortality and hospitalisation rates; however, they target the Spike protein whose sequence mutates frequently and drifts. Spike is also not applicable for targeting other HCoVs as these are not well-conserved sequences among human CoVs. Thus, there is a need for readily available treatments globally that target all seven human CoVs and improve the preparedness for inevitable future outbreaks. Here, we discuss antiviral research, contributing to the control of common and severe CoV replication and transmission, including the current SARS-CoV-2 outbreak. The aim was to identify common features of CoVs for antivirals, biologics and vaccines that could reduce the scientific, political, economic and public health strain caused by CoV outbreaks now and in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mia Outteridge
- School of Human Sciences, London Metropolitan University, London N7 8DB, UK; (M.O.); (C.M.N.); (K.D.); (B.P.)
| | - Christine M. Nunn
- School of Human Sciences, London Metropolitan University, London N7 8DB, UK; (M.O.); (C.M.N.); (K.D.); (B.P.)
| | - Kevin Devine
- School of Human Sciences, London Metropolitan University, London N7 8DB, UK; (M.O.); (C.M.N.); (K.D.); (B.P.)
| | - Bhaven Patel
- School of Human Sciences, London Metropolitan University, London N7 8DB, UK; (M.O.); (C.M.N.); (K.D.); (B.P.)
| | - Gary R. McLean
- School of Human Sciences, London Metropolitan University, London N7 8DB, UK; (M.O.); (C.M.N.); (K.D.); (B.P.)
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Valdes Angues R, Perea Bustos Y. SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination and the Multi-Hit Hypothesis of Oncogenesis. Cureus 2023; 15:e50703. [PMID: 38234925 PMCID: PMC10792266 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.50703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a complex and dynamic disease. The "hallmarks of cancer" were proposed by Hanahan and Weinberg (2000) as a group of biological competencies that human cells attain as they progress from normalcy to neoplastic transformation. These competencies include self-sufficiency in proliferative signaling, insensitivity to growth-suppressive signals and immune surveillance, the ability to evade cell death, enabling replicative immortality, reprogramming energy metabolism, inducing angiogenesis, and activating tissue invasion and metastasis. Underlying these competencies are genome instability, which expedites their acquisition, and inflammation, which fosters their function(s). Additionally, cancer exhibits another dimension of complexity: a heterogeneous repertoire of infiltrating and resident host cells, secreted factors, and extracellular matrix, known as the tumor microenvironment, that through a dynamic and reciprocal relationship with cancer cells supports immortality, local invasion, and metastatic dissemination. This staggering intricacy calls for caution when advising all people with cancer (or a previous history of cancer) to receive the COVID-19 primary vaccine series plus additional booster doses. Moreover, because these patients were not included in the pivotal clinical trials, considerable uncertainty remains regarding vaccine efficacy, safety, and the risk of interactions with anticancer therapies, which could reduce the value and innocuity of either medical treatment. After reviewing the available literature, we are particularly concerned that certain COVID-19 vaccines may generate a pro-tumorigenic milieu (i.e., a specific environment that could lead to neoplastic transformation) that predisposes some (stable) oncologic patients and survivors to cancer progression, recurrence, and/or metastasis. This hypothesis is based on biological plausibility and fulfillment of the multi-hit hypothesis of oncogenesis (i.e., induction of lymphopenia and inflammation, downregulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression, activation of oncogenic cascades, sequestration of tumor suppressor proteins, dysregulation of the RNA-G quadruplex-protein binding system, alteration of type I interferon responses, unsilencing of retrotransposable elements, etc.) together with growing evidence and safety reports filed to Vaccine Adverse Effects Report System (VAERS) suggesting that some cancer patients experienced disease exacerbation or recurrence following COVID-19 vaccination. In light of the above and because some of these concerns (i.e., alteration of oncogenic pathways, promotion of inflammatory cascades, and dysregulation of the renin-angiotensin system) also apply to cancer patients infected with SARS-CoV-2, we encourage the scientific and medical community to urgently evaluate the impact of both COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccination on cancer biology and tumor registries, adjusting public health recommendations accordingly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Valdes Angues
- Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University School of Medicine, Portland, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Elalouf A, Kedarya T, Elalouf H, Rosenfeld A. Computational design and evaluation of mRNA- and protein-based conjugate vaccines for influenza A and SARS-CoV-2 viruses. J Genet Eng Biotechnol 2023; 21:120. [PMID: 37966525 PMCID: PMC10651613 DOI: 10.1186/s43141-023-00574-x] [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: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Israel confirmed the first case of "flurona"-a co-infection of seasonal flu (IAV) and SARS-CoV-2 in an unvaccinated pregnant woman. This twindemic has been confirmed in multiple countries and underscores the importance of managing respiratory viral illnesses. RESULTS The novel conjugate vaccine was designed by joining four hemagglutinin, three neuraminidase, and four S protein of B-cell epitopes, two hemagglutinin, three neuraminidase, and four S proteins of MHC-I epitopes, and three hemagglutinin, nine neuraminidase, and five S proteins of MHC-II epitopes with linkers and adjuvants. The constructed conjugate vaccine was found stable, non-toxic, non-allergic, and antigenic with 0.6466 scores. The vaccine contained 14.87% alpha helix, 29.85% extended strand, 9.64% beta-turn, and 45.64% random coil, which was modeled to a 3D structure with 94.7% residues in the most favored region of the Ramachandran plot and Z-score of -3.33. The molecular docking of the vaccine with TLR3 represented -1513.9 kcal/mol of binding energy with 39 hydrogen bonds and 514 non-bonded contacts, and 1.582925e-07 of eigenvalue complex. Immune stimulation prediction showed the conjugate vaccine could activate T and B lymphocytes to produce high levels of Th1 cytokines and antibodies. CONCLUSION The in silico-designed vaccine against IAV and SARS-CoV-2 showed good population coverage and immune response with predicted T- and B-cell epitopes, favorable molecular docking, Ramachandran plot results, and good protein expression. It fulfilled safety criteria, indicating potential for preclinical studies and experimental clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Elalouf
- Department of Management, Bar-Ilan University, 5290002, Ramat Gan, Israel.
| | - Tomer Kedarya
- Department of Management, Bar-Ilan University, 5290002, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Hadas Elalouf
- Information Science Department, Bar-Ilan University, 5290002, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Ariel Rosenfeld
- Information Science Department, Bar-Ilan University, 5290002, Ramat Gan, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bejoy J, Williams CI, Cole HJ, Manzoor S, Davoodi P, Battaile JI, Kaushik A, Nikolaienko SI, Brelidze TI, Gychka SG, Suzuki YJ. Effects of spike proteins on angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Arch Biochem Biophys 2023; 748:109769. [PMID: 37769892 PMCID: PMC10615800 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2023.109769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which enters host cells through interactions of its spike protein to Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2). ACE2 is a peptidase that cleaves Angiotensin II, a critical pathological mediator. This study investigated if the spike protein binding to ACE2 compromises its peptidase activity. Spike/ACE2 Binding Assays suggested that spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, but not HKU1, bind to ACE2. S1 and receptor-binding domain (RBD), but not S2, extracellular domain (ECD) or CendR domain, bind to ACE2. While glycosylated spike proteins prepared in HEK293 cells bind to ACE2, non-glycosylated proteins produced in E. coli do not. Cysteine residues of the spike protein expressed in HEK293 cells are fully oxidized, while those of the protein expressed in E. coli are reduced. The deglycosylation of HEK cell-produced protein attenuates the ACE2 binding, while the oxidation of the E. coli protein does not promote the binding. The S1 protein of SARS-CoV-2 enhances the ACE2 peptidase activity, while SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV or HKU1 does not. The ACE2 activity is enhanced by RBD, but not ECD or CendR. In contrast to distinct ACE2 binding capacities of proteins expressed in HEK293 cells and in E. coli, spike proteins expressed in both systems enhance the ACE2 activity. Thus, the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, but not other coronaviruses, enhances the ACE2 peptidase activity through its RBD in a glycosylation-independent manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennyfer Bejoy
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Charlye I Williams
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Hattie J Cole
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Shavaiz Manzoor
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Parsa Davoodi
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Jacqueline I Battaile
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Arjun Kaushik
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Sofia I Nikolaienko
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, 01601, Ukraine
| | - Tinatin I Brelidze
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Sergiy G Gychka
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, 01601, Ukraine
| | - Yuichiro J Suzuki
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington DC, 20007, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Manfredelli D, Pariano M, Costantini C, Graziani A, Bozza S, Romani L, Puccetti P, Talesa VN, Antognelli C. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Spike Protein S1 Induces Methylglyoxal-Derived Hydroimidazolone/Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products (MG-H1/RAGE) Activation to Promote Inflammation in Human Bronchial BEAS-2B Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14868. [PMID: 37834316 PMCID: PMC10573269 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with a hyperinflammatory response. The mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2-induced inflammation are scantly known. Methylglyoxal (MG) is a glycolysis-derived byproduct endowed with a potent glycating action, leading to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), the main one being MG-H1. MG-H1 exerts strong pro-inflammatory effects, frequently mediated by the receptor for AGEs (RAGE). Here, we investigated the involvement of the MG-H1/RAGE axis as a potential novel mechanism in SARS-CoV-2-induced inflammation by resorting to human bronchial BEAS-2B and alveolar A549 epithelial cells, expressing different levels of the ACE2 receptor (R), exposed to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein 1 (S1). Interestingly, we found in BEAS-2B cells that do not express ACE2-R that S1 exerted a pro-inflammatory action through a novel MG-H1/RAGE-based pathway. MG-H1 levels, RAGE and IL-1β expression levels in nasopharyngeal swabs from SARS-CoV-2-positive and -negative individuals, as well as glyoxalase 1 expression, the major scavenging enzyme of MG, seem to support the results obtained in vitro. Altogether, our findings reveal a novel mechanism involved in the inflammation triggered by S1, paving the way for the study of the MG-H1/RAGE inflammatory axis in SARS-CoV-2 infection as a potential therapeutic target to mitigate COVID-19-associated pathogenic inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dominga Manfredelli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Bioscience and Medical Embryology Division, University of Perugia, L. Severi Square, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (D.M.); (M.P.); (V.N.T.)
| | - Marilena Pariano
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Bioscience and Medical Embryology Division, University of Perugia, L. Severi Square, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (D.M.); (M.P.); (V.N.T.)
| | - Claudio Costantini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology Division, University of Perugia, L. Severi Square, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (C.C.); (L.R.)
| | - Alessandro Graziani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology Division, University of Perugia, L. Severi Square, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (A.G.); (S.B.)
| | - Silvia Bozza
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology Division, University of Perugia, L. Severi Square, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (A.G.); (S.B.)
| | - Luigina Romani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology Division, University of Perugia, L. Severi Square, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (C.C.); (L.R.)
| | - Paolo Puccetti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pharmacology Division, University of Perugia, L. Severi Square, 06129 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Nicola Talesa
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Bioscience and Medical Embryology Division, University of Perugia, L. Severi Square, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (D.M.); (M.P.); (V.N.T.)
| | - Cinzia Antognelli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Bioscience and Medical Embryology Division, University of Perugia, L. Severi Square, 06129 Perugia, Italy; (D.M.); (M.P.); (V.N.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sullivan RD, Shults NV, Suzuki YJ. Case Report: Two Case Reports of Pulmonary Hypertension after mRNA COVID-19 Vaccination. Diseases 2023; 11:114. [PMID: 37754310 PMCID: PMC10528902 DOI: 10.3390/diseases11030114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We herein report two cases of sudden onset symptomatic pulmonary hypertension after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination. CASE SUMMARY Pulmonary hypertension in previously healthy adult males occurred within three weeks of receiving the second dose of the Pfizer (BNT162b2) mRNA COVID-19 vaccine from different lots. Both patients experienced a sudden onset of severe fatigue and dyspnea on exertion with negative severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. The diagnosis was made by serial transthoracic echocardiography in the first case and by both transthoracic echocardiography and right heart catheterization in the second. Both cases resulted in functional limitations and likely permanent organ damage. No evidence of pulmonary emboli was detected in either case. DISCUSSION Pulmonary hypertension is a serious disease characterized by damage to lung vasculature and restricted blood flow through narrowed arteries from the right to left heart. The onset of symptoms is typically insidious, progressive and incurable, leading to right heart failure and premature death. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies pulmonary hypertension into five categories and recently re-defined it as a resting mean pulmonary artery pressure greater than 20 mmHg. Sudden onset pulmonary hypertension would only be expected in the settings of surgical pneumonectomy or massive pulmonary emboli with compromise of at least 50% of the lung vasculature. We present here two novel cases of sudden onset pulmonary hypertension without evidence of pulmonary emboli, both of which occurred after receiving a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nataliia V. Shults
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20007, USA;
| | - Yuichiro J. Suzuki
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Giannotta G, Murrone A, Giannotta N. COVID-19 mRNA Vaccines: The Molecular Basis of Some Adverse Events. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:747. [PMID: 37112659 PMCID: PMC10145134 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11040747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Each injection of any known vaccine results in a strong expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This is the result of the innate immune system activation, without which no adaptive response to the injection of vaccines is possible. Unfortunately, the degree of inflammation produced by COVID-19 mRNA vaccines is variable, probably depending on genetic background and previous immune experiences, which through epigenetic modifications could have made the innate immune system of each individual tolerant or reactive to subsequent immune stimulations.We hypothesize that we can move from a limited pro-inflammatory condition to conditions of increasing expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines that can culminate in multisystem hyperinflammatory syndromes following COVID-19 mRNA vaccines (MIS-V). We have graphically represented this idea in a hypothetical inflammatory pyramid (IP) and we have correlated the time factor to the degree of inflammation produced after the injection of vaccines. Furthermore, we have placed the clinical manifestations within this hypothetical IP, correlating them to the degree of inflammation produced. Surprisingly, excluding the possible presence of an early MIS-V, the time factor and the complexity of clinical manifestations are correlated to the increasing degree of inflammation: symptoms, heart disease and syndromes (MIS-V).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio Murrone
- Oncologia Territoriale, Hospice Cure Palliative ASUFC, 33030 Udine, Italy;
| | - Nicola Giannotta
- Medical and Surgery Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Magna Græcia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abdulla ZA, Al-Bashir SM, Alzoubi H, Al-Salih NS, Aldamen AA, Abdulazeez AZ. The Role of Immunity in the Pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 Infection and in the Protection Generated by COVID-19 Vaccines in Different Age Groups. Pathogens 2023; 12:329. [PMID: 36839601 PMCID: PMC9967364 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to review the available data regarding the central role of immunity in combating SARS-CoV-2 infection and in the generation of protection by vaccination against COVID-19 in different age groups. Physiologically, the immune response and the components involved in it are variable, both functionally and quantitatively, in neonates, infants, children, adolescents, and adults. These immunological differences are mirrored during COVID-19 infection and in the post-vaccination period. The outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection is greatly dependent on the reaction orchestrated by the immune system. This is clearly obvious in relation to the clinical status of COVID-19 infection, which can be symptomless, mild, moderate, or severe. Even the complications of the disease show a proportional pattern in relation to the immune response. On the contrary, the commonly used anti-COVID-19 vaccines generate protective humoral and cellular immunity. The magnitude of this immunity and the components involved in it are discussed in detail. Furthermore, many of the adverse effects of these vaccines can be explained on the basis of immune reactions against the different components of the vaccines. Regarding the appropriate choice of vaccine for different age groups, many factors have to be considered. This is a cornerstone, particularly in the following age groups: 1 day to 5 years, 6 to 11 years, and 12 to 17 years. Many factors are involved in deciding the route, doses, and schedule of vaccination for children. Another important issue in this dilemma is the hesitancy of families in making the decision about whether to vaccinate their children. Added to these difficulties is the choice by health authorities and governments concerning whether to make children's vaccination compulsory. In this respect, although rare and limited, adverse effects of vaccines in children have been detected, some of which, unfortunately, have been serious or even fatal. However, to achieve comprehensive control over COVID-19 in communities, both children and adults have to be vaccinated, as the former group represents a reservoir for viral transmission. The understanding of the various immunological mechanisms involved in SARS-CoV-2 infection and in the preparation and application of its vaccines has given the sciences a great opportunity to further deepen and expand immunological knowledge. This will hopefully be reflected positively on other diseases through gaining an immunological background that may aid in diagnosis and therapy. Humanity is still in continuous conflict with SARS-CoV-2 infection and will be for a while, but the future is expected to be in favor of the prevention and control of this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sharaf M. Al-Bashir
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 21163, Jordan
| | - Hiba Alzoubi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 21163, Jordan
| | - Noor S. Al-Salih
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 21163, Jordan
| | - Ala A. Aldamen
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 21163, Jordan
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Bellavite P, Ferraresi A, Isidoro C. Immune Response and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiovascular Adverse Effects of Spike Proteins from SARS-CoV-2 and mRNA Vaccines. Biomedicines 2023; 11:451. [PMID: 36830987 PMCID: PMC9953067 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 disease) uses the Spike proteins of its envelope for infecting target cells expressing on the membrane the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) enzyme that acts as a receptor. To control the pandemic, genetically engineered vaccines have been designed for inducing neutralizing antibodies against the Spike proteins. These vaccines do not act like traditional protein-based vaccines, as they deliver the message in the form of mRNA or DNA to host cells that then produce and expose the Spike protein on the membrane (from which it can be shed in soluble form) to alert the immune system. Mass vaccination has brought to light various adverse effects associated with these genetically based vaccines, mainly affecting the circulatory and cardiovascular system. ACE2 is present as membrane-bound on several cell types, including the mucosa of the upper respiratory and of the gastrointestinal tracts, the endothelium, the platelets, and in soluble form in the plasma. The ACE2 enzyme converts the vasoconstrictor angiotensin II into peptides with vasodilator properties. Here we review the pathways for immunization and the molecular mechanisms through which the Spike protein, either from SARS-CoV-2 or encoded by the mRNA-based vaccines, interferes with the Renin-Angiotensin-System governed by ACE2, thus altering the homeostasis of the circulation and of the cardiovascular system. Understanding the molecular interactions of the Spike protein with ACE2 and the consequent impact on cardiovascular system homeostasis will direct the diagnosis and therapy of the vaccine-related adverse effects and provide information for development of a personalized vaccination that considers pathophysiological conditions predisposing to such adverse events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandra Ferraresi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Ciro Isidoro
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Butani N, Xu Y, Pan S, Durocher Y, Ghosh R. A fast, efficient, and scalable method for purifying recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2023; 1215:123579. [PMID: 36603473 PMCID: PMC9810479 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2022.123579] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Recombinant SARS-CoV-2 trimeric spike protein produced by mammalian cell culture is a potential candidate for a COVID-19 vaccine. However, this protein is much larger than most typical biopharmaceutical proteins and its large-scale manufacture is therefore challenging. Particularly, its purification using resin-based chromatography is difficult as the diffusive transport of this protein to and from its binding site within the pores of the stationary phase particles is slow. Therefore, very low flow rates need to be used during binding and elution, and this slows down the purification process. Also, due to its large size, the binding capacity of this protein on resin-based media is low. Membrane chromatography is an efficient and scalable technique for purifying biopharmaceuticals. The predominant mode of solute transport in a membrane is convective and hence it is considered better than resin-based chromatography for purifying large proteins. In this paper, we propose a membrane chromatography-based purification method for fast and scalable manufacture of recombinant SARS-CoV-2 trimeric spike protein. A combination of cation exchange z2 laterally-fed membrane chromatography and size exclusion chromatography was found to be suitable for obtaining a homogeneous spike protein sample from mammalian cell culture supernatant. The proposed method is both fast and scalable and could be explored as a method for manufacturing vaccine grade spike protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikhila Butani
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L7, Canada
| | - Yating Xu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L7, Canada
| | - Si Pan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L7, Canada
| | - Yves Durocher
- National Research Council of Canada, Montreal, QC H4P 2R2, Canada; Département de biochimie et médecine moléculaire, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Raja Ghosh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L7, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mavridis C, Aidonidis G, Evangelou M, Kalogeridis A. Mandatory vaccinations, the segregation of citizens, and the promotion of inequality in the modern democracy of Greece and other democratic countries in the era of COVID-19. HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY OF THE LIFE SCIENCES 2022; 44:72. [PMID: 36477872 PMCID: PMC9734873 DOI: 10.1007/s40656-022-00548-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Greek authorities enforced a vaccination mandate for healthcare workers (HCWs). At the same time, multiple concerns were raised about the epidemiological profile of Greece in addition to the ethical status of the harsh measures and their impact on employees, organizations, society, and public health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), considerations regarding the evidence of vaccine safety and effectiveness, necessity, and proportionality should be clearly evaluated by before imposing mandatory vaccination policies. We discuss the issues regarding the mechanics of the transmission and contraction of SARS-CoV-2, the toxicity of COVID-19 vaccines, and the impact of the suspension of HCWs who did not vaccinate versus the potential expected benefits in addition to whether the vaccine mandates were justified considering the overall epidemiological context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Athanasios Kalogeridis
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloníki, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Miltner N, Linkner TR, Ambrus V, Al-Muffti AS, Ahmad H, Mótyán JA, Benkő S, Tőzsér J, Mahdi M. Early suppression of antiviral host response and protocadherins by SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein in THP-1-derived macrophage-like cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:999233. [PMID: 36341352 PMCID: PMC9634736 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.999233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). The spike protein (S) of SARS-CoV-2 plays a crucial role in mediating viral infectivity; hence, in an extensive effort to curb the pandemic, many urgently approved vaccines rely on the expression of the S protein, aiming to induce a humoral and cellular response to protect against the infection. Given the very limited information about the effects of intracellular expression of the S protein in host cells, we aimed to characterize the early cellular transcriptomic changes induced by expression of the S protein in THP-1-derived macrophage-like cells. Results showed that a wide variety of genes were differentially expressed, products of which are mainly involved in cell adhesion, homeostasis, and most notably, antiviral and immune responses, depicted by significant downregulation of protocadherins and type I alpha interferons (IFNAs). While initially, the levels of IFNAs were higher in the medium of S protein expressing cells, the downregulation observed on the transcriptomic level might have been reflected by no further increase of IFNA cytokines beyond the 5 h time-point, compared to the mock control. Our study highlights the intrinsic pathogenic role of the S protein and sheds some light on the potential drawbacks of its utilization in the context of vaccination strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noémi Miltner
- Laboratory of Retroviral Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tamás Richárd Linkner
- Laboratory of Retroviral Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Viktor Ambrus
- Laboratory of Retroviral Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Aya S. Al-Muffti
- Laboratory of Retroviral Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Hala Ahmad
- Doctoral School of Molecular Cell and Immune Biology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Laboratory of Inflammation-Physiology, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - János András Mótyán
- Laboratory of Retroviral Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Szilvia Benkő
- Laboratory of Inflammation-Physiology, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - József Tőzsér
- Laboratory of Retroviral Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Mohamed Mahdi, ; József Tőzsér,
| | - Mohamed Mahdi
- Laboratory of Retroviral Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Mohamed Mahdi, ; József Tőzsér,
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Forsyth CB, Zhang L, Bhushan A, Swanson B, Zhang L, Mamede JI, Voigt RM, Shaikh M, Engen PA, Keshavarzian A. The SARS-CoV-2 S1 Spike Protein Promotes MAPK and NF-kB Activation in Human Lung Cells and Inflammatory Cytokine Production in Human Lung and Intestinal Epithelial Cells. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10101996. [PMID: 36296272 PMCID: PMC9607240 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10101996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic began in January 2020 in Wuhan, China, with a new coronavirus designated SARS-CoV-2. The principal cause of death from COVID-19 disease quickly emerged as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). A key ARDS pathogenic mechanism is the “Cytokine Storm”, which is a dramatic increase in inflammatory cytokines in the blood. In the last two years of the pandemic, a new pathology has emerged in some COVID-19 survivors, in which a variety of long-term symptoms occur, a condition called post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) or “Long COVID”. Therefore, there is an urgent need to better understand the mechanisms of the virus. The spike protein on the surface of the virus is composed of joined S1–S2 subunits. Upon S1 binding to the ACE2 receptor on human cells, the S1 subunit is cleaved and the S2 subunit mediates the entry of the virus. The S1 protein is then released into the blood, which might be one of the pivotal triggers for the initiation and/or perpetuation of the cytokine storm. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the S1 spike protein is sufficient to activate inflammatory signaling and cytokine production, independent of the virus. Our data support a possible role for the S1 spike protein in the activation of inflammatory signaling and cytokine production in human lung and intestinal epithelial cells in culture. These data support a potential role for the SARS-CoV-2 S1 spike protein in COVID-19 pathogenesis and PASC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher B. Forsyth
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Graduate College, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Lijuan Zhang
- Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Abhinav Bhushan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
| | - Barbara Swanson
- Department of Adult Health & Gerontological Nursing, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Microbial Pathogens and Immunity, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - João I. Mamede
- Department of Microbial Pathogens and Immunity, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Robin M. Voigt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Graduate College, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Maliha Shaikh
- Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Phillip A. Engen
- Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Ali Keshavarzian
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Rush University Graduate College, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Cosentino M, Marino F. Understanding the Pharmacology of COVID-19 mRNA Vaccines: Playing Dice with the Spike? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:10881. [PMID: 36142792 PMCID: PMC9502275 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) mRNA vaccines are the mainstays of mass vaccination campaigns in most Western countries. However, the emergency conditions in which their development took place made it impossible to fully characterize their effects and mechanism of action. Here, we summarize and discuss available evidence indicating that COVID-19 mRNA vaccines better reflect pharmaceutical drugs than conventional vaccines, as they do not contain antigens but an active SARS-CoV-2 S protein mRNA, representing at the same time an active principle and a prodrug, which upon intracellular translation results in the endogenous production of the SARS-CoV-2 S protein. Both vaccine-derived SARS-CoV-2 S protein mRNA and the resulting S protein exhibit a complex pharmacology and undergo systemic disposition. Defining COVID-19 mRNA vaccines as pharmaceutical drugs has straightforward implications for their pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic, clinical and post-marketing safety assessment. Only an accurate characterization of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines as pharmaceutical drugs will guarantee a safe, rational and individualized use of these products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cosentino
- Center for Research in Medical Pharmacology, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Federico M. How Do Anti-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccines Protect from Severe Disease? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:10374. [PMID: 36142284 PMCID: PMC9499329 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 pathogenesis develops in two phases. First, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 spreads within the epithelial cells of the mucosa of upper and, possibly, lower respiratory tracts. While the virus dissemination can be controlled by an emerging adaptive host immune response, if the virus diffuses to the pulmonary alveoli, a potentially lethal mechanism can arise in the second phase. It consists of an uncontrolled burst of cytokines/inflammatory factors (i.e., cytokine storm), leading to the insurgence of respiratory symptoms and, consequently, multi-organ failures. Messenger (m)RNA-based vaccines represent the most innovative approach in terms of prophylaxis against SARS-CoV-2-induced disease. The cumulating data indicate that the response to mRNA vaccines is basically ineffective to counteract the viral replication in the upper respiratory tracts, while showing efficacy in containing the development of severe disease. Considering that the antiviral immunity elicited by intramuscularly delivered mRNA vaccines is expected to show similar quantitative and qualitative features in upper and lower respiratory tracts, the different outcomes appear surprising and deserve accurate consideration. In this review, a still unexplored mechanism accounting for the mRNA vaccine effect against severe disease is proposed. Based on well-established experimental evidence, a possible inhibitory effect on alveolar macrophages as a consequence of the diffusion of the extracellular and/or cell-associated Spike protein can be envisioned as a key event counteracting the cytokine storm. This benefit, however, may be associated with defects in the immune functions of macrophages in other tissues whose possible consequences deserve careful evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Federico
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chui CSL, Fan M, Wan EYF, Leung MTY, Cheung E, Yan VKC, Gao L, Ghebremichael-Weldeselassie Y, Man KK, Lau KK, Lam ICH, Lai FTT, Li X, Wong CKH, Chan EW, Cheung CL, Sing CW, Lee CK, Hung IFN, Lau CS, Chan JYS, Lee MKY, Mok VCT, Siu CW, Chan LST, Cheung T, Chan FLF, Leung AYH, Cowling BJ, Leung GM, Wong ICK. Thromboembolic events and hemorrhagic stroke after mRNA (BNT162b2) and inactivated (CoronaVac) covid-19 vaccination: A self-controlled case series study. EClinicalMedicine 2022; 50:101504. [PMID: 35770253 PMCID: PMC9233170 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to evaluate the association between thromboembolic events and hemorrhagic stroke following BNT162b2 and CoronaVac vaccination. METHODS Patients with incident thromboembolic events or hemorrhagic stroke within 28 days of covid-19 vaccination or SARS-CoV-2 positive test during 23 February to 30 September 2021 were included. The incidence per 100,000 covid-19 vaccine doses administered and SARS-CoV-2 test positive cases were estimated. A modified self-controlled case series (SCCS) analysis using the data from the Hong Kong territory-wide electronic health and vaccination records. Seasonal effect was adjusted by month. FINDINGS A total of 5,526,547 doses of BNT162b2 and 3,146,741 doses of CoronaVac were administered. A total of 334 and 402 thromboembolic events, and 57 and 49 hemorrhagic stroke cases occurred within 28 days after BNT162b2 and CoronaVac vaccination, respectively. The crude incidence of thromboembolic events and hemorrhagic stroke per 100,000 doses administered for both covid-19 vaccines were smaller than that per 100,000 SARS-CoV-2 test positive cases. The modified SCCS detected an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke in BNT162b2 14-27 days after first dose with adjusted IRR of 2.53 (95% CI 1.48-4.34), and 0-13 days after second dose with adjusted IRR 2.69 (95% CI 1.54-4.69). No statistically significant risk was observed for thromboembolic events for both vaccines. INTERPRETATION We detected a possible safety signal for hemorrhagic stroke following BNT162b2 vaccination. The incidence of thromboembolic event or hemorrhagic stroke following vaccination is lower than that among SARS-CoV-2 test positive cases; therefore, vaccination against covid-19 remains an important public health intervention. FUNDING This study was funded by a research grant from the Food and Health Bureau, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (reference COVID19F01).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celine Sze Ling Chui
- School of Nursing, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D4H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Min Fan
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Eric Yuk Fai Wan
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D4H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Miriam Tim Yin Leung
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Edmund Cheung
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Vincent Ka Chun Yan
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Le Gao
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Kenneth K.C. Man
- Research Department of Practice and Policy, School of Pharmacy, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - Kui Kai Lau
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ivan Chun Hang Lam
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Francisco Tsz Tsun Lai
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D4H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xue Li
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D4H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Carlos King Ho Wong
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D4H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Esther W. Chan
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D4H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ching-Lung Cheung
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D4H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chor-Wing Sing
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Cheuk Kwong Lee
- Hong Kong Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, China
- Expert Committee on Clinical Events Assessment Following COVID-19 Immunization, Department of Health, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Ivan Fan Ngai Hung
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Expert Committee on Clinical Events Assessment Following COVID-19 Immunization, Department of Health, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Chak Sing Lau
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Joseph Yat Sun Chan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Michael Kang-Yin Lee
- Expert Committee on Clinical Events Assessment Following COVID-19 Immunization, Department of Health, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong, China
| | - Vincent Chung Tong Mok
- Expert Committee on Clinical Events Assessment Following COVID-19 Immunization, Department of Health, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Chung-Wah Siu
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Lot Sze Tao Chan
- Department of Health, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Terence Cheung
- Department of Health, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Frank Ling Fung Chan
- Department of Health, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Anskar Yu-Hung Leung
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Benjamin John Cowling
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D4H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Gabriel Matthew Leung
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D4H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Ian Chi Kei Wong
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D4H), Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Research Department of Practice and Policy, School of Pharmacy, University College London, United Kingdom
- Expert Committee on Clinical Events Assessment Following COVID-19 Immunization, Department of Health, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Corresponding author at: L2-57, Laboratory Block, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Doan LH, Chu LW, Huang ZY, Nguyen AT, Lee CY, Huang CL, Chang YF, Hsieh WY, Nguyen TTH, Lin CH, Su CL, Chuang TH, Lai JM, Wang FS, Yang CJ, Liu HK, Ping YH, Huang CYF. Virofree, an Herbal Medicine-Based Formula, Interrupts the Viral Infection of Delta and Omicron Variants of SARS-CoV-2. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:905197. [PMID: 35860023 PMCID: PMC9289459 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.905197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) remains a threat with the emergence of new variants, especially Delta and Omicron, without specific effective therapeutic drugs. The infection causes dysregulation of the immune system with a cytokine storm that eventually leads to fatal acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and further irreversible pulmonary fibrosis. Therefore, the promising way to inhibit infection is to disrupt the binding and fusion between the viral spike and the host ACE2 receptor. A transcriptome-based drug screening platform has been developed for COVID-19 to explore the possibility and potential of the long-established drugs or herbal medicines to reverse the unique genetic signature of COVID-19. In silico analysis showed that Virofree, an herbal medicine, reversed the genetic signature of COVID-19 and ARDS. Biochemical validations showed that Virofree could disrupt the binding of wild-type and Delta-variant spike proteins to ACE2 and its syncytial formation via cell-based pseudo-typed viral assays, as well as suppress binding between several variant recombinant spikes to ACE2, especially Delta and Omicron. Additionally, Virofree elevated miR-148b-5p levels, inhibited the main protease of SARS-CoV-2 (Mpro), and reduced LPS-induced TNF-α release. Virofree also prevented cellular iron accumulation leading to ferroptosis which occurs in SARS-CoV-2 patients. Furthermore, Virofree was able to reduce pulmonary fibrosis-related protein expression levels in vitro. In conclusion, Virofree was repurposed as a potential herbal medicine to combat COVID-19. This study highlights the inhibitory effect of Virofree on the entry of Delta and Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2, which have not had any effective treatments during the emergence of the new variants spreading.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ly Hien Doan
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Biotechnology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Li-Wei Chu
- Department and Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Zi-Yi Huang
- Program in Molecular Medicine, College of Life Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- ASUS Intelligent Cloud Services, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Anh Thuc Nguyen
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taiwan National Graduate Program in Molecular Medicine, Academia Sinica, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yin Lee
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Immunology Research Center, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Ling Huang
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Wen-Yu Hsieh
- Division of Basic Chinese Medicine, National Research Institute of Chinese Medicine (NRICM), Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Trang Thi Huyen Nguyen
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Hsiung Lin
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences, College of Life Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Aging and Health Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Li Su
- Graduate Program of Nutrition Science, School of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Hsien Chuang
- Immunology Research Center, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Jin-Mei Lai
- Department of Life Science, College of Science and Engineering, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Feng-Sheng Wang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jui Yang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Kang Liu
- Division of Basic Chinese Medicine, National Research Institute of Chinese Medicine (NRICM), Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program in the Clinical Drug Development of Herbal Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Traditional Herbal Medicine Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yueh-Hsin Ping
- Department and Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Biophotonics, College of Biomedical Science and Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Ying F. Huang
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Program in Molecular Medicine, College of Life Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taiwan National Graduate Program in Molecular Medicine, Academia Sinica, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Biotechnology and Laboratory Science in Medicine, School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Song Y, Zhang H, Zhu Y, Zhao X, Lei Y, Zhou W, Yu J, Dong X, Wang X, Du M, Yan H. Lysozyme Protects Against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection and Inflammation in Human Corneal Epithelial Cells. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:16. [PMID: 35713893 PMCID: PMC9206495 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.6.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of lysozyme, an antimicrobial enzyme found in tears that protects the eye against pathogens, on pseudotyped severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection through corneal epithelial cells. Methods The expression of the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane serine protease (TMPRSS2) in human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) was measured by RT-PCR and Western blotting. The altered expression of the pro-inflammatory molecules induced by spike protein and lysozyme was analyzed by RT-PCR. Cell toxicity was tested by CCK8 assay. The cell entry of SAR-CoV-2 in HCECs and primary rabbit corneal epithelial cells (RbCECs) was detected by luciferase assay. Results ACE2 and TMPRSS2 were highly expressed in HCECs. The spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2 stimulated a robust inflammatory response in HCECs, characterized by increased secretion of pro-inflammatory molecules, including IL-6, TNF-α, iNOS, and MCP-1, and pretreatment with lysozyme in HCECs markedly decreased the production of proinflammatory molecules induced by spike proteins. In addition, the inflammatory cytokine TNF-α enhanced the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into HCECs, which can be mitigated by pretreatment with lysozyme. Conclusions In this study, we analyzed the susceptibility of human corneal epithelial cells to SARS-CoV-2 infection and suggested the protective effects of lysozyme on SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinting Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Haokun Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanfang Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiao Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yi Lei
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinguo Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xue Dong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Mei Du
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hua Yan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Laboratory of Molecular Ophthalmology, Department of Pharmacology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammation Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Lund AM, Al-Karagholi MAM. COVID-19 Vaccination Might Induce Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome Attacks: A Case Report. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10050823. [PMID: 35632579 PMCID: PMC9147002 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10050823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A 30-year-old male diagnosed three years previously with reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) presented to the department of neurology with an accumulation of attacks mimicking previous RCVS attacks and fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for RCVS after receiving the first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. The neurologic exam, blood samples, electrocardiogram (ECG), and computer tomography of the head (CTC) were normal. The patient was treated with the angiotensin 2 receptor antagonist, losartan, with a good response and was discharged with a prescription for losartan lasting until three days after the second Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. No further RCVS attacks were reported. These findings indicate that the COVID-19 vaccine might induce RCVS attacks in susceptible individuals, and targeting the angiotensin 2 receptor could be a preventive option.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Marie Lund
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark;
- Correspondence:
| | - Mohammad Al-Mahdi Al-Karagholi
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark;
- Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark
- Department of Neurology, Nordsjaellands Hospital—Hilleroed, 3400 Hilleroed, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Dumache R, Enache A, Macasoi I, Dehelean CA, Dumitrascu V, Mihailescu A, Popescu R, Vlad D, Vlad CS, Muresan C. SARS-CoV-2: An Overview of the Genetic Profile and Vaccine Effectiveness of the Five Variants of Concern. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11050516. [PMID: 35631037 PMCID: PMC9144800 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11050516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, enormous efforts have been made to understand the genus SARS-CoV-2. Due to the high rate of global transmission, mutations in the viral genome were inevitable. A full understanding of the viral genome and its possible changes represents one of the crucial aspects of pandemic management. Structural protein S plays an important role in the pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2, mutations occurring at this level leading to viral forms with increased affinity for ACE2 receptors, higher transmissibility and infectivity, resistance to neutralizing antibodies and immune escape, increasing the risk of infection and disease severity. Thus, five variants of concern are currently being discussed, Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta and Omicron. In the present review, a comprehensive summary of the following critical aspects regarding SARS-CoV-2 has been made: (i) the genomic characteristics of SARS-CoV-2; (ii) the pathological mechanism of transmission, penetration into the cell and action on specific receptors; (iii) mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 genome; and (iv) possible implications of mutations in diagnosis, treatment, and vaccination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raluca Dumache
- Ethics and Human Identification Research Center, Department of Neurosciences, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.D.); (A.E.); (A.M.); (C.M.)
| | - Alexandra Enache
- Ethics and Human Identification Research Center, Department of Neurosciences, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.D.); (A.E.); (A.M.); (C.M.)
| | - Ioana Macasoi
- Departament of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.M.); (C.A.D.)
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Departament of Toxicology and Drug Industry, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babeş” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
- Research Center for Pharmaco-Toxicological Evaluations, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square No. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (I.M.); (C.A.D.)
| | - Victor Dumitrascu
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Discipline of Pharmacology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (V.D.); (D.V.); (C.S.V.)
| | - Alexandra Mihailescu
- Ethics and Human Identification Research Center, Department of Neurosciences, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.D.); (A.E.); (A.M.); (C.M.)
- Genetics, Genomic Medicine Research Center, Department of Microscopic Morphology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Popescu
- Department of Microscopic Morphology, Discipline of Molecular and Cell Biology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Daliborca Vlad
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Discipline of Pharmacology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (V.D.); (D.V.); (C.S.V.)
| | - Cristian Sebastian Vlad
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Discipline of Pharmacology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (V.D.); (D.V.); (C.S.V.)
| | - Camelia Muresan
- Ethics and Human Identification Research Center, Department of Neurosciences, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (R.D.); (A.E.); (A.M.); (C.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Sauserienė J, Liseckienė I, Neverauskė V, Šepetauskienė E, Serapinas D, Mačinskas Š, Šitkauskienė B, Bajoriūnienė I, Vaičiūnienė R, Valius L. Adverse Events and Immunogenicity of mRNA-Based COVID-19 Vaccine among Healthcare Workers: A Single-Centre Experience. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58030441. [PMID: 35334616 PMCID: PMC8955166 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58030441] [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: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The safety and effectiveness of vaccines are among the key priorities in COVID-19 pandemic management. Moreover, evidence-based data regarding vaccine safety and immunogenicity can play an important role in building the trust of the community regarding vaccination. The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and immunogenicity of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine among healthcare workers in one hospital, 21 days after first dose. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in the Hospital of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences between February and March 2021. Hospital employees who arrived to receive the second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine 21 days after the first one were invited to participate in the study: they were asked to complete an anonymous adverse events questionnaire and were offered a SARS-CoV-2 IgG/IgM rapid test. The study was performed at a single point, 21 days after the first dose of the vaccine. Results: Data of 4181 vaccine recipients were analysed. The first vaccine dose was associated with a 53.6% incidence of adverse events, mainly local reactions. Adverse events occurred more frequently in younger participants and women. Moderate adverse events were experienced by 1.4% of the vaccine recipients; 6.2% were incapacitated. Of the 3439 participants who performed a rapid IgG test, 94.5% were positive for IgG antibodies after the first vaccine dose. Seroconversion rates were lower in participants older than 47 years. Conclusions: Despite 1.4% moderate adverse events, no safety concerns or anaphylaxis were identified. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine induced an immune response in the overwhelming majority of recipients after a single dose. Younger participants experienced adverse events and were positive for IgG antibodies more frequently than older counterparts. It is important to mention that this study specifically considered short-term safety and reactions following vaccination and that long-term adverse effects were not investigated in the study. Thus, future research into both long-term adverse reactions and immune system programming is essential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jolanta Sauserienė
- Department of Family Medicine, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (I.L.); (V.N.); (D.S.); (Š.M.); (L.V.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Ida Liseckienė
- Department of Family Medicine, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (I.L.); (V.N.); (D.S.); (Š.M.); (L.V.)
| | - Vitalija Neverauskė
- Department of Family Medicine, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (I.L.); (V.N.); (D.S.); (Š.M.); (L.V.)
| | - Eglė Šepetauskienė
- Information Technology Centre, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania;
| | - Danielius Serapinas
- Department of Family Medicine, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (I.L.); (V.N.); (D.S.); (Š.M.); (L.V.)
| | - Šarūnas Mačinskas
- Department of Family Medicine, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (I.L.); (V.N.); (D.S.); (Š.M.); (L.V.)
| | - Brigita Šitkauskienė
- Department of Immunology and Allergology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (B.Š.); (I.B.)
| | - Ieva Bajoriūnienė
- Department of Immunology and Allergology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (B.Š.); (I.B.)
| | - Rūta Vaičiūnienė
- Department of Nephrology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania;
| | - Leonas Valius
- Department of Family Medicine, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (I.L.); (V.N.); (D.S.); (Š.M.); (L.V.)
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Vesce F, Battisti C, Crudo M. The Inflammatory Cytokine Imbalance for Miscarriage, Pregnancy Loss and COVID-19 Pneumonia. Front Immunol 2022; 13:861245. [PMID: 35359975 PMCID: PMC8961687 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.861245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy can be defined a vascular event upon endocrine control. In the human hemo-chorial placentation the chorionic villi penetrate the wall of the uterine spiral arteries, to provide increasing amounts of nutrients and oxygen for optimal fetal growth. In any physiological pregnancy the natural maternal response is of a Th1 inflammatory type, aimed at avoiding blood loss through the arteriolar wall openings. The control of the vascular function, during gestation as in any other condition, is achieved through the action of two main types of prostanoids: prostaglandin E2 and thromboxane on the one hand (for vasoconstriction and coagulation), prostacyclin on the other (for vasodilation and blood fluidification). The control of the maternal immune response is upon the responsibility of the fetus itself. Indeed, the chorionic villi are able to counteract the natural maternal response, thus changing the inflammatory Th1 type into the anti-inflammatory Th2. Clinical and experimental research in the past half century address to inflammation as the leading cause of abortion, pregnancy loss, premature delivery and related pulmonary, cerebral, intestinal fetal syndromes. Increased level of Interleukin 6, Interleukin 1-beta, Tumor Necrosis Factor-alfa, Interferon-gamma, are some among the well-known markers of gestational inflammation. On the other side, COVID-19 pneumonia is a result of extensive inflammation induced by viral replication within the cells of the respiratory tract. As it may happen in the uterine arteries in the absence of an effective fetal control, viral pneumonia triggers pulmonary vascular coagulation. The cytokines involved in the process are the same as those in gestational inflammation. As the fetus breathes throughout the placenta, fetal death from placental thrombosis is similar to adult death from pulmonary thrombosis. Preventing and counteracting inflammation is mandatory in both conditions. The most relevant literature dealing with the above-mentioned concepts is reviewed in the present article.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fortunato Vesce
- OB & Gyn Complex Unit, Arcispedale Sant’Anna – Ferrara University, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Cosar B, Karagulleoglu ZY, Unal S, Ince AT, Uncuoglu DB, Tuncer G, Kilinc BR, Ozkan YE, Ozkoc HC, Demir IN, Eker A, Karagoz F, Simsek SY, Yasar B, Pala M, Demir A, Atak IN, Mendi AH, Bengi VU, Cengiz Seval G, Gunes Altuntas E, Kilic P, Demir-Dora D. SARS-CoV-2 Mutations and their Viral Variants. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2022; 63:10-22. [PMID: 34580015 PMCID: PMC8252702 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2021.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) occur spontaneously during replication. Thousands of mutations have accumulated and continue to since the emergence of the virus. As novel mutations continue appearing at the scene, naturally, new variants are increasingly observed. Since the first occurrence of the SARS-CoV-2 infection, a wide variety of drug compounds affecting the binding sites of the virus have begun to be studied. As the drug and vaccine trials are continuing, it is of utmost importance to take into consideration the SARS-CoV-2 mutations and their respective frequencies since these data could lead the way to multi-drug combinations. The lack of effective therapeutic and preventive strategies against human coronaviruses (hCoVs) necessitates research that is of interest to the clinical applications. The reason why the mutations in glycoprotein S lead to vaccine escape is related to the location of the mutation and the affinity of the protein. At the same time, it can be said that variations should occur in areas such as the receptor-binding domain (RBD), and vaccines and antiviral drugs should be formulated by targeting more than one viral protein. In this review, a literature survey in the scope of the increasing SARS-CoV-2 mutations and the viral variations is conducted. In the light of current knowledge, the various disguises of the mutant SARS-CoV-2 forms and their apparent differences from the original strain are examined as they could possibly aid in finding the most appropriate therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Begum Cosar
- Başkent University, Faculty of Science and Letters, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Yagmur Karagulleoglu
- Yıldız Technical University, Faculty of Arts and Science, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Sinan Unal
- Yıldız Technical University, Faculty of Arts and Science, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, İstanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Dilruba Beyza Uncuoglu
- Ankara University, Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Department of Biology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gizem Tuncer
- Hacettepe University, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, General Biology Program, Ankara, Turkey; HücreCELL Biotechnology Development and Commerce, Inc., Ankara, Turkey
| | - Bugrahan Regaip Kilinc
- Kastamonu University, School of Engineering and Architecture, Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Kastamonu, Turkey; Kastamonu University, School of Engineering and Architecture, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Kastamonu, Turkey
| | - Yunus Emre Ozkan
- Gebze Technical University, Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Hikmet Ceyda Ozkoc
- Akdeniz University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Pharmacology, Antalya, Turkey
| | | | - Ali Eker
- Akdeniz University, Faculty of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey
| | | | | | - Bunyamin Yasar
- Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University, Department of Molecular Medicine, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Mehmetcan Pala
- Sivas Cumhuriyet University, Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Aysegul Demir
- Üsküdar University, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Irem Naz Atak
- Ankara University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Aysegul Hanife Mendi
- Gazi University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Basic Sciences, Division of Medical Microbiology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Vahdi Umut Bengi
- Gülhane Training and Research Hospital, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Periodontology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Guldane Cengiz Seval
- Ankara University, School of Medicine Department of Hematology, Cebeci, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Pelin Kilic
- HücreCELL Biotechnology Development and Commerce, Inc., Ankara, Turkey; Ankara University, Stem Cell Institute, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Devrim Demir-Dora
- Akdeniz University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Pharmacology, Antalya, Turkey; Akdeniz University, Health Sciences Institute, Department of Gene and Cell Therapy, Antalya, Turkey; Akdeniz University, Health Sciences Institute, Department of Medical Biotechnology, Antalya, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Differential Effect of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein 1 on Human Bronchial and Alveolar Lung Mucosa Models: Implications for Pathogenicity. Viruses 2021; 13:v13122537. [PMID: 34960806 PMCID: PMC8708014 DOI: 10.3390/v13122537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein mediates attachment of the virus to the host cell receptor and fusion between the virus and the cell membrane. The S1 subunit of the spike glycoprotein (S1 protein) contains the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor binding domain. The SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern contain mutations in the S1 subunit. The spike protein is the primary target of neutralizing antibodies generated following infection, and constitutes the viral component of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines. Methods: Therefore, in this work we assessed the effect of exposure (24 h) to 10 nM SARS-CoV-2 recombinant S1 protein on physiologically relevant human bronchial (bro) and alveolar (alv) lung mucosa models cultured at air–liquid interface (ALI) (n = 6 per exposure condition). Corresponding sham exposed samples served as a control. The bro-ALI model was developed using primary bronchial epithelial cells and the alv-ALI model using representative type II pneumocytes (NCI-H441). Results: Exposure to S1 protein induced the surface expression of ACE2, toll like receptor (TLR) 2, and TLR4 in both bro-ALI and alv-ALI models. Transcript expression analysis identified 117 (bro-ALI) and 97 (alv-ALI) differentially regulated genes (p ≤ 0.01). Pathway analysis revealed enrichment of canonical pathways such as interferon (IFN) signaling, influenza, coronavirus, and anti-viral response in the bro-ALI. Secreted levels of interleukin (IL) 4 and IL12 were significantly (p < 0.05) increased, whereas IL6 decreased in the bro-ALI. In the case of alv-ALI, enriched terms involving p53, APRIL (a proliferation-inducing ligand) tight junction, integrin kinase, and IL1 signaling were identified. These terms are associated with lung fibrosis. Further, significantly (p < 0.05) increased levels of secreted pro-inflammatory cytokines IFNγ, IL1ꞵ, IL2, IL4, IL6, IL8, IL10, IL13, and tumor necrosis factor alpha were detected in alv-ALI, whereas IL12 was decreased. Altered levels of these cytokines are also associated with lung fibrotic response. Conclusions: In conclusion, we observed a typical anti-viral response in the bronchial model and a pro-fibrotic response in the alveolar model. The bro-ALI and alv-ALI models may serve as an easy and robust platform for assessing the pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern at different lung regions.
Collapse
|
31
|
O’Regan D, Jackson ML, Young AH, Rosenzweig I. Understanding the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic, Lockdowns and Social Isolation on Sleep Quality. Nat Sci Sleep 2021; 13:2053-2064. [PMID: 34795545 PMCID: PMC8593898 DOI: 10.2147/nss.s266240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The uncertain, ever-changing and an ongoing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic means that it may take some time before we can fully appreciate the negative effect of the pandemic and lockdown on our sleep and mental health. It is increasingly recognised that in the aftermath of pandemic, several persistent sleep, neuropsychiatric and physical sequelae may continue long after the pandemic is over. A body of evidence to date also highlights a significant disparity in sleep and mental health difficulties in specific vulnerable groups in the community, with different temporal profiles and sleep issues that are reported. In this perspective, we argue for a possible mechanistic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with its imposed restrictions and social isolation on sleep quality. We similarly discuss some of the potential international differences, as well as similarities, behind reported idiosyncratic biological vulnerabilities that may have contributed to the genesis of sleep issues. Lastly, we propose some possible implementations and innovations that may be needed in restructuring of sleep disorders services in order to benefit recovering COVID-19 patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David O’Regan
- Sleep Disorders Centre, Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital, GSTT NHS, London, UK
- Faculty of Life and Sciences Medicine, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Melinda L Jackson
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Allan H Young
- School of Academic Psychiatry, IoPPN, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Ivana Rosenzweig
- Sleep Disorders Centre, Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital, GSTT NHS, London, UK
- Sleep and Brain Plasticity Centre, CNS, IoPPN, King’s College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kostoff RN, Calina D, Kanduc D, Briggs MB, Vlachoyiannopoulos P, Svistunov AA, Tsatsakis A. Why are we vaccinating children against COVID-19? Toxicol Rep 2021; 8:1665-1684. [PMID: 34540594 PMCID: PMC8437699 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2021.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This article examines issues related to COVID-19 inoculations for children. The bulk of the official COVID-19-attributed deaths per capita occur in the elderly with high comorbidities, and the COVID-19 attributed deaths per capita are negligible in children. The bulk of the normalized post-inoculation deaths also occur in the elderly with high comorbidities, while the normalized post-inoculation deaths are small, but not negligible, in children. Clinical trials for these inoculations were very short-term (a few months), had samples not representative of the total population, and for adolescents/children, had poor predictive power because of their small size. Further, the clinical trials did not address changes in biomarkers that could serve as early warning indicators of elevated predisposition to serious diseases. Most importantly, the clinical trials did not address long-term effects that, if serious, would be borne by children/adolescents for potentially decades. A novel best-case scenario cost-benefit analysis showed very conservatively that there are five times the number of deaths attributable to each inoculation vs those attributable to COVID-19 in the most vulnerable 65+ demographic. The risk of death from COVID-19 decreases drastically as age decreases, and the longer-term effects of the inoculations on lower age groups will increase their risk-benefit ratio, perhaps substantially.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349, Craiova, Romania
| | - Darja Kanduc
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, Italy
| | | | | | - Andrey A. Svistunov
- Department of Pharmacology, I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119146, Moscow, Russia
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Department of Forensic Sciences and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ayele AG, Enyew EF, Kifle ZD. Roles of existing drug and drug targets for COVID-19 management. Metabol Open 2021; 11:100103. [PMID: 34222852 PMCID: PMC8239316 DOI: 10.1016/j.metop.2021.100103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In December 2019, a highly transmissible, pneumonia epidemic caused by a novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), erupted in China and other countries, resulting in devastation and health crisis worldwide currently. The search and using existing drugs support to curb the current highly contagious viral infection is spirally increasing since the pandemic began. This is based on these drugs had against other related RNA-viruses such as MERS-Cov, and SARS-Cov. Moreover, researchers are scrambling to identify novel drug targets and discover novel therapeutic options to vanquish the current pandemic. Since there is no definitive treatment to control Covid-19 vaccines are remain to be a lifeline. Currently, many vaccine candidates are being developed with most of them are reported to have positive results. Therapeutic targets such as helicases, transmembrane serine protease 2, cathepsin L, cyclin G-associated kinase, adaptor-associated kinase 1, two-pore channel, viral virulence factors, 3-chymotrypsin-like protease, suppression of excessive inflammatory response, inhibition of viral membrane, nucleocapsid, envelope, and accessory proteins, and inhibition of endocytosis were identified as a potential target against COVID-19 infection. This review also summarizes plant-based medicines for the treatment of COVID-19 such as saposhnikoviae divaricata, lonicerae japonicae flos, scutellaria baicalensis, lonicera japonicae, and some others. Thus, this review aimed to focus on the most promising therapeutic targets being repurposed against COVID-19 and viral elements that are used in COVID-19 vaccine candidates.
Collapse
Key Words
- 3CLpro, 3-chymotrypsin-like protease
- AAK1, adaptor-associated kinase 1
- ACE-2, Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme-2
- CEF, Cepharanthine
- COVID-19
- COVID-19, coronavirus disease-2019
- Existing drug
- GAK, cyclin G-associated kinase
- MERS-CoV, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus
- Management
- Nsp, non-structure protein
- ORF, open reading frame
- PLpro, papain-like protease
- RdRp, RNA-dependence RNA-polymerase
- SARS-COV-2, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2
- TMPRSS2, transmembrane Serine Protease 2
- TPC2, two-pore channel 2
- Therapeutic target
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akeberegn Gorems Ayele
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Science, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Engidaw Fentahun Enyew
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Zemene Demelash Kifle
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Jana S, Heaven MR, Alayash AI. Cell-Free Hemoglobin Does Not Attenuate the Effects of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein S1 Subunit in Pulmonary Endothelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9041. [PMID: 34445747 PMCID: PMC8396564 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22169041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 primarily infects epithelial airway cells that express the host entry receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which binds to the S1 spike protein on the surface of the virus. To delineate the impact of S1 spike protein interaction with the ACE2 receptor, we incubated the S1 spike protein with human pulmonary arterial endothelial cells (HPAEC). HPAEC treatment with the S1 spike protein caused disruption of endothelial barrier function, increased levels of numerous inflammatory molecules (VCAM-1, ICAM-1, IL-1β, CCL5, CXCL10), elevated mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), and a mild rise in glycolytic reserve capacity. Because low oxygen tension (hypoxia) is associated with severe cases of COVID-19, we also evaluated treatment with hemoglobin (HbA) as a potential countermeasure in hypoxic and normal oxygen environments in analyses with the S1 spike protein. We found hypoxia downregulated the expression of the ACE2 receptor and increased the critical oxygen homeostatic signaling protein, hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-1α); however, treatment of the cells with HbA yielded no apparent change in the levels of ACE2 or HIF-1α. Use of quantitative proteomics revealed that S1 spike protein-treated cells have few differentially regulated proteins in hypoxic conditions, consistent with the finding that ACE2 serves as the host viral receptor and is reduced in hypoxia. However, in normoxic conditions, we found perturbed abundance of proteins in signaling pathways related to lysosomes, extracellular matrix receptor interaction, focal adhesion, and pyrimidine metabolism. We conclude that the spike protein alone without the rest of the viral components is sufficient to elicit cell signaling in HPAEC, and that treatment with HbA failed to reverse the vast majority of these spike protein-induced changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Abdu I. Alayash
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Vascular Biology, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA; (S.J.); (M.R.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Mohammadi M, Shayestehpour M, Mirzaei H. The impact of spike mutated variants of SARS-CoV2 [Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Lambda] on the efficacy of subunit recombinant vaccines. Braz J Infect Dis 2021; 25:101606. [PMID: 34428473 PMCID: PMC8367756 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjid.2021.101606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the first described human infection with SARS-CoV-2 in December of 2019 many subunit protein vaccines have been proposed for use in humans. Subunit vaccines use one or more antigens suitable for eliciting a robust immune response. However, the major concern is the efficacy of subunit vaccines and elicited antibodies to neutralize the variants of SARS-CoV-2 like B.1.1.7 (Alpha), B.1.351 (Beta) and P1 (Gamma), B.1.617 (Delta) and C.37 (Lambda). The Spike protein (S) is a potential fragment for use as an antigen in vaccine development. This protein plays a crucial role in the first step of the infection process, as it binds to Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor and enters the host cell after binding. Immunization-induced specific antibodies against the receptor binding domain (RBD) may block and effectively prevent virus invasion. The focus of this review is the impact of spike mutated variants of SARS-CoV2 (Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Lambda) on the efficacy of subunit recombinant vaccines. To date, a low or no significant impact on vaccine efficacy against Alpha and Delta variants has been reported. Such an impact on vaccine efficacy for Beta, Delta, Gamma, and Lambda variants may be even greater compared to the Alpha variant. Nonetheless, more comprehensive analyses are needed to assess the real impact on vaccine efficacy brought about by SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Mohammadi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, I.R. Iran
| | - Mohammad Shayestehpour
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, I.R. Iran; Autoimmune Diseases Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, I.R. Iran.
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Seeherman S, Suzuki YJ. Viral Infection and Cardiovascular Disease: Implications for the Molecular Basis of COVID-19 Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041659. [PMID: 33562193 PMCID: PMC7914972 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The current pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). While this respiratory virus only causes mild symptoms in younger healthy individuals, elderly people and those with cardiovascular diseases such as systemic hypertension are susceptible to developing severe conditions that can be fatal. SARS-CoV-2 infection is also associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial injury, acute coronary syndrome, and thromboembolism. Understanding the mechanisms of the effects of this virus on the cardiovascular system should thus help develop therapeutic strategies to reduce the mortality and morbidity associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Since this virus causes severe and fatal conditions in older individuals with cardiovascular comorbidities, effective therapies targeting specific populations will likely contribute to ending this pandemic. In this review article, the effects of various viruses—including other coronaviruses, influenza, dengue, and human immunodeficiency virus—on the cardiovascular system are described to help provide molecular mechanisms of pathologies associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19. The goal is to provide mechanistic information from the biology of other viral infections in relation to cardiovascular pathologies for the purpose of developing improved vaccines and therapeutic agents effective in preventing and/or treating the acute and long-term consequences of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Seeherman
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, PA 16509, USA;
| | - Yuichiro J. Suzuki
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20007, USA
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|