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Galindo-Andúgar MA, Arias Arias Á, Alfonso García Guerra J, Fernández Visier I, Manuel Fernández Ibáñez J, Bellido Maldonado A. Impact of N-Acetylcysteine in the mortality of patients hospitalized with COVID-19: a retrospective cohort study. Rev Clin Esp 2023; 223:479-485. [PMID: 37482215 DOI: 10.1016/j.rceng.2023.07.006] [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: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIM N-Acetylcysteine has been proposed for the treatment of COVID-19 thanks to its mucolytic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Our aim is to evaluate its effect on patients admitted with COVID-19 in mortality terms. MATERIAL AND METHODS Retrospective single-center cohort study. All patients admitted to our hospital for COVID-19 from March to April 2020 have been considered. RESULTS A total of 378 patients were included, being 196 (51.9%) men, with an average age of 73.3±14.5 years. 52.6% (199) received treatment with N-Acetylcysteine. More than 70% presented coughs, fever, and/or dyspnea. The global hospital mortality was 26.7%. A multivariate analysis through logistic regression identified the age of patients [older than 80; OR: 8.4 (CI95%:3-23.4)], a moderate or severe radiologic affectation measured by the RALE score [OR:7.3 (CI95%:3.2-16.9)], the tobacco consumption [OR:2.8 (CI95%:1.3-6.1)] and previous arrhythmia [OR 2.8 (CI95%: 1.3-6.2)] as risk factor that were independently associated with mortality during the admission. The treatment with N-Acetylcysteine was identified as a protective factor [OR: 0.57 (CI95%: 0.31-0.99)]. Asthma also seems to have a certain protective factor although it was not statistically significant in our study [OR: 0.19 (CI95%: 0.03-1.06)]. CONCLUSIONS Patients with COVID-19 treated with N-acetylcysteine have presented a lower mortality and a better evolution in this study. Future prospective studies or randomized clinical trials must confirm the impact of N-Acetylcysteine on COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Galindo-Andúgar
- Servicio de Medicina Interna. Hospital General La Mancha Centro, Alcázar de San Juan (C. Real), Spain.
| | - Á Arias Arias
- Unidad de Docencia, Investigación y Formación, Hospital General La Mancha Centro, Alcázar de San Juan (C. Real), Spain
| | - J Alfonso García Guerra
- Sección de Neumología, Hospital General La Mancha Centro, Alcázar de San Juan (C. Real), Spain
| | - I Fernández Visier
- Sección de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital General La Mancha Centro, Alcázar de San Juan (C. Real), Spain
| | | | - A Bellido Maldonado
- Sección de Neumología, Hospital General La Mancha Centro, Alcázar de San Juan (C. Real), Spain
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Fesharaki Zadeh A, Arnsten AFT, Wang M. Scientific Rationale for the Treatment of Cognitive Deficits from Long COVID. Neurol Int 2023; 15:725-742. [PMID: 37368329 PMCID: PMC10303664 DOI: 10.3390/neurolint15020045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Sustained cognitive deficits are a common and debilitating feature of "long COVID", but currently there are no FDA-approved treatments. The cognitive functions of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) are the most consistently afflicted by long COVID, including deficits in working memory, motivation, and executive functioning. COVID-19 infection greatly increases kynurenic acid (KYNA) and glutamate carboxypeptidase II (GCPII) in brain, both of which can be particularly deleterious to PFC function. KYNA blocks both NMDA and nicotinic-alpha-7 receptors, the two receptors required for dlPFC neurotransmission, and GCPII reduces mGluR3 regulation of cAMP-calcium-potassium channel signaling, which weakens dlPFC network connectivity and reduces dlPFC neuronal firing. Two agents approved for other indications may be helpful in restoring dlPFC physiology: the antioxidant N-acetyl cysteine inhibits the production of KYNA, and the α2A-adrenoceptor agonist guanfacine regulates cAMP-calcium-potassium channel signaling in dlPFC and is also anti-inflammatory. Thus, these agents may be helpful in treating the cognitive symptoms of long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arman Fesharaki Zadeh
- Departments of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Departments of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Amy F. T. Arnsten
- Departments of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA;
| | - Min Wang
- Departments of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA;
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3
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Haroun RAH, Abdel-Aziz N, Saad S. The protective effect of N-acetyl cysteine against selenium toxicity and gamma irradiation in rats. Drug Chem Toxicol 2023; 46:482-490. [PMID: 35361025 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2022.2058010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a nutritional supplement and greatly applied as an antioxidant in vivo and in vitro. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the metabolic and antioxidant protective effect of NAC against selenium (Se) toxicity and gamma irradiation in rats by measuring biochemical and molecular parameters. This study was conducted on sixty rats divided into six equal different groups; control, NAC, Rad, Se, Rad + NAC, and Se + NAC groups. Oxidative/nitrosative makers (LPO, NO, and NOS), antioxidants status markers (GSH, GPx, and SOD), liver metabolic markers (LDH, SDH, and ATP), and plasma metabolic markers (Glucose, total cholesterol, and total proteins) were measured using commercial colorimetric kits while plasma corticosterone concentration was measured using commercial ELISA kit. Also, Levels of NR3C1 and Glut-2 genes expression using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction were done. Our results revealed that Se toxicity and gamma irradiation induced significant increases in oxidative/nitrosative stress markers and a significant decrease in antioxidant status markers in the liver and adrenal tissues. Moreover, metabolic disorders were recorded as manifested by elevation of plasma ALT, Albumin, glucose and cholesterol, and decrease in protein levels associated with a significant increase in corticosterone concentration. This was also accompanied by a significant decrease in SDH activity and ATP production in the hepatic tissue. Molecular analysis showed a marked increase in NR3C1 mRNA and decrease in Glut-2 mRNA in liver tissue. However, NAC supplementation attenuated the changes induced by these toxins. Finally, we could conclude that, oral supplementation of NAC can modulate the metabolic disturbances and has protective effects in rats exposed to Se toxicity and gamma irradiation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nahed Abdel-Aziz
- Radiation Biology Department, NCRRT, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Soha Saad
- Department of Biochemistry, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Suresh V, Behera P, Parida D, Mohapatra AP, Das SK, Kumari S, Avula K, Mohapatra A, Syed GH, Senapati S. Therapeutic role of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) for the treatment and/or management of SARS-CoV-2-induced lung damage in hamster model. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 938:175392. [PMID: 36400163 PMCID: PMC9663386 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress by reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been hypothesized to be the major mediator of SARS-CoV-2-induced pathogenesis. During infection, the redox homeostasis of cells is altered as a consequence of virus-induced cellular stress and inflammation. In such scenario, high levels of ROS bring about the production of pro-inflammatory molecules like IL-6, IL-1β, etc. that are believed to be the mediators of severe COVID-19 pathology. Based on the known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, mucolytic and antiviral properties of NAC, it has been hypothesized that NAC will have beneficial effects in COVID-19 patients. In the current study efforts have been made to evaluate the protective effect of NAC in combination with remdesivir against SARS-CoV-2 induced lung damage in the hamster model. The SARS-CoV-2 infected animals were administered with high (500 mg/kg/day) and low (150 mg/kg/day) doses of NAC intraperitoneally with and without remdesivir. Lung viral load, pathology score and expression of inflammatory molecules were checked by using standard techniques. The findings of this study show that high doses of NAC alone can significantly suppress the SARS-CoV-2 mediated severe lung damage (2 fold), but on the contrary, it fails to restrict viral load. Moreover, high doses of NAC with and without remdesivir significantly suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory genes including IL-6 (4.16 fold), IL-1β (1.96 fold), and TNF-α (5.55 fold) in lung tissues. Together, results of this study may guide future preclinical and clinical attempts to evaluate the efficacy of different doses and routes of NAC administration with or without other drugs against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Voddu Suresh
- Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India; Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, Haryana, India
| | - Padmanava Behera
- Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India; Department of Microbiology, SOA University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Deepti Parida
- Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India; Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, Haryana, India
| | - Amlan Priyadarshee Mohapatra
- Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India; Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, Haryana, India
| | | | - Sneha Kumari
- Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Kiran Avula
- Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India; Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, Haryana, India
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Afaghi S, Moghimi N, Malekpour Alamdari N, Rahimi FS, Irilouzadian R, Esmaeili Tarki F, Moghimi M, Besharat S, Salehi Omran H, Karimi A. N-acetylcysteine as adjuvant therapy for hospitalized Covid-19 patients: A single-center prospective cohort study. CASPIAN JOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE 2023; 14:543-552. [PMID: 37520878 PMCID: PMC10379801 DOI: 10.22088/cjim.14.3.553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Whilst over two years have passed since the COVID-19 pandemic's emergence, the proper management of the disease remains challenging. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as a potentially effective therapeutic option has been suggested by studies, while the exact clinical role of this agent is yet to be evaluated. Methods This prospective case-control study was conducted in a major referral respiratory center in Tehran, Iran. We enrolled 217 patients treated with an intravenous daily dose of 1500 mg NAC as a case group; and 245 control patients who did not receive NAC. Two groups were matched based on other treatments, socio-demographics, medical history, and comorbidities. Results After ten days of adjuvant therapy with NAC, patients in the NAC group and control group had median room-air SpO2 of 91% and 88%, respectively (P=0.02). Also, the SpO2 to FiO2 ratio had a median of 463 and 421 in the case and control groups, respectively (P=0.01). Furthermore, the case group's hospitalization period was three days shorter (P=0.002). Further, cough, dyspnea, and decreased appetite were reported to have a significantly lower incidence in the case group (P=0.03, 0.001, 0.008). Conclusion We showed that a daily intravenous dose of NAC in hospitalized COVID-19 patients could shorten the hospital stay and improve some clinical symptoms; however, it does not remarkably improve the risk of ICU admission and the 28 days in-hospital mortality rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siamak Afaghi
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Shahid Modarres Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- : Co-first authors co-equally contributed to this study
| | - Negin Moghimi
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Shahid Modarres Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- : Co-first authors co-equally contributed to this study
| | - Nasser Malekpour Alamdari
- Clinical Research and Development Center, Department of Surgery, Shahid Modarres Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sadat Rahimi
- Clinical Research and Development Center, Department of Surgery, Shahid Modarres Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rana Irilouzadian
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Shahid Modarres Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzad Esmaeili Tarki
- Clinical Research and Development Center, Department of Surgery, Shahid Modarres Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morvarid Moghimi
- School of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Besharat
- Department of Radiology, Shahid Labafi Nejad Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Salehi Omran
- Clinical Research and Development Center, Department of Surgery, Shahid Modarres Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Anita Karimi
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Shahid Modarres Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Panahi Y, Ghanei M, Rahimi M, Samim A, Vahedian‐Azimi A, Atkin SL, Sahebkar A. Evaluation the efficacy and safety of N-acetylcysteine inhalation spray in controlling the symptoms of patients with COVID-19: An open-label randomized controlled clinical trial. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28393. [PMID: 36495185 PMCID: PMC9878233 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28393] [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: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect and safety of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) inhalation spray in the treatment of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This randomized controlled clinical trial study was conducted on patients with COVID-19. Eligible patients (n = 250) were randomly allocated into the intervention group (routine treatment + NAC inhaler spray one puff per 12 h, for 7 days) or the control group who received routine treatment alone. Clinical features, hemodynamic, hematological, biochemical parameters and patient outcomes were assessed and compared before and after treatment. The mortality rate was significantly higher in the control group than in the intervention group (39.2% vs. 3.2%, p < 0.001). Significant differences were found between the two groups (intervention and control, respectively) for white blood cell count (6.2 vs. 7.8, p < 0.001), hemoglobin (12.3 vs. 13.3, p = 0.002), C-reactive protein (CRP: 6 vs. 11.5, p < 0.0001) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST: 32 vs. 25.5, p < 0.0001). No differences were seen for hospital length of stay (11.98 ± 3.61 vs. 11.81 ± 3.52, p = 0.814) or the requirement for intensive care unit (ICU) admission (7.2% vs. 11.2%, p = 0.274). NAC was beneficial in reducing the mortality rate in patients with COVID-19 and inflammatory parameters, and a reduction in the development of severe respiratory failure; however, it did not affect the length of hospital stay or the need for ICU admission. Data on the effectiveness of NAC for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 is limited and further research is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunes Panahi
- Pharmacotherapy Department, School of PharmacyBaqiyatallah University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Mostafa Ghanei
- Chemical Injuries Center, Systems Biology and Poisoning InstituteBaqiyatallah University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Morteza Rahimi
- Chemical Injuries Center, Systems Biology and Poisoning InstituteBaqiyatallah University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Abbas Samim
- Chemical Injuries Center, Systems Biology and Poisoning InstituteBaqiyatallah University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Amir Vahedian‐Azimi
- Trauma Research Center, Nursing FacultyBaqiyatallah University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Stephen L. Atkin
- School of Postgraduate Studies and ResearchRCSI Medical University of BahrainBusaiteenKingdom of Bahrain
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research CenterMashhad University of Medical SciencesMashhadIran,Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology InstituteMashhad University of Medical SciencesMashhadIran,Department of Biotechnology, School of PharmacyMashhad University of Medical SciencesMashhadIran
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7
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Izquierdo-Alonso JL, Pérez-Rial S, Rivera CG, Peces-Barba G. N-acetylcysteine for prevention and treatment of COVID-19: Current state of evidence and future directions. J Infect Public Health 2022; 15:1477-1483. [PMID: 36410267 PMCID: PMC9651994 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2022.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and can be associated with serious complications, including acute respiratory distress syndrome. This condition is accompanied by a massive release of cytokines, also denominated cytokine storm, development of systemic oxidative stress and a prothrombotic state. In this context, it has been proposed a role for acetylcysteine (NAC) in the management of patients with COVID-19. NAC is a molecule classically known for its mucolytic effect, but it also has direct and indirect antioxidant activity as a precursor of reduced glutathione. Other effects of NAC have also been described, such as modulating the immune and inflammatory response, counteracting the thrombotic state, and having an antiviral effect. The pharmacological activities of NAC and its effects on the mechanisms of disease progression make it a potential therapeutic agent for COVID-19. NAC is safe, tolerable, affordable, and easily available. Moreover, the antioxidant effects of the molecule may even prevent infection and play an important role as a complement to vaccination. Although the clinical efficacy and dosing regimens of NAC have been evaluated in the clinical setting with small series of patients, the results are promising. In this article, we review the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection and the current knowledge of the mechanisms of action of NAC across disease stages. We also propose NAC posology strategies to manage COVID-19 patients in different clinical scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Luis Izquierdo-Alonso
- Servicio de Neumología, Gerencia de Atención Integrada de Guadalajara, Spain,Correspondence to: Gerencia de Atención Integrada de Guadalajara, C/Donante de sangre, s/n, 19002 Guadalajara, Spain
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Labarrere CA, Kassab GS. Glutathione deficiency in the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection and its effects upon the host immune response in severe COVID-19 disease. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:979719. [PMID: 36274722 PMCID: PMC9582773 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.979719] [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: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that causes coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has numerous risk factors leading to severe disease with high mortality rate. Oxidative stress with excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that lower glutathione (GSH) levels seems to be a common pathway associated with the high COVID-19 mortality. GSH is a unique small but powerful molecule paramount for life. It sustains adequate redox cell signaling since a physiologic level of oxidative stress is fundamental for controlling life processes via redox signaling, but excessive oxidation causes cell and tissue damage. The water-soluble GSH tripeptide (γ-L-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl-glycine) is present in the cytoplasm of all cells. GSH is at 1–10 mM concentrations in all mammalian tissues (highest concentration in liver) as the most abundant non-protein thiol that protects against excessive oxidative stress. Oxidative stress also activates the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)-Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-antioxidant response element (ARE) redox regulator pathway, releasing Nrf2 to regulate the expression of genes that control antioxidant, inflammatory and immune system responses, facilitating GSH activity. GSH exists in the thiol-reduced and disulfide-oxidized (GSSG) forms. Reduced GSH is the prevailing form accounting for >98% of total GSH. The concentrations of GSH and GSSG and their molar ratio are indicators of the functionality of the cell and its alteration is related to various human pathological processes including COVID-19. Oxidative stress plays a prominent role in SARS-CoV-2 infection following recognition of the viral S-protein by angiotensin converting enzyme-2 receptor and pattern recognition receptors like toll-like receptors 2 and 4, and activation of transcription factors like nuclear factor kappa B, that subsequently activate nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX) expression succeeded by ROS production. GSH depletion may have a fundamental role in COVID-19 pathophysiology, host immune response and disease severity and mortality. Therapies enhancing GSH could become a cornerstone to reduce severity and fatal outcomes of COVID-19 disease and increasing GSH levels may prevent and subdue the disease. The life value of GSH makes for a paramount research field in biology and medicine and may be key against SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 disease.
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Tsermpini EE, Glamočlija U, Ulucan-Karnak F, Redenšek Trampuž S, Dolžan V. Molecular Mechanisms Related to Responses to Oxidative Stress and Antioxidative Therapies in COVID-19: A Systematic Review. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11081609. [PMID: 36009328 PMCID: PMC9405444 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11081609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic is a leading global health and economic challenge. What defines the disease’s progression is not entirely understood, but there are strong indications that oxidative stress and the defense against reactive oxygen species are crucial players. A big influx of immune cells to the site of infection is marked by the increase in reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Our article aims to highlight the critical role of oxidative stress in the emergence and severity of COVID-19 and, more importantly, to shed light on the underlying molecular and genetic mechanisms. We have reviewed the available literature and clinical trials to extract the relevant genetic variants within the oxidative stress pathway associated with COVID-19 and the anti-oxidative therapies currently evaluated in the clinical trials for COVID-19 treatment, in particular clinical trials on glutathione and N-acetylcysteine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelia Eirini Tsermpini
- Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Una Glamočlija
- Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- School of Medicine, University of Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Fulden Ulucan-Karnak
- Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Bornova, 35100 İzmir, Turkey
| | - Sara Redenšek Trampuž
- Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Vita Dolžan
- Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Correspondence:
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du Preez HN, Aldous C, Kruger HG, Johnson L. N-Acetylcysteine and Other Sulfur-Donors as a Preventative and Adjunct Therapy for COVID-19. Adv Pharmacol Pharm Sci 2022; 2022:4555490. [PMID: 35992575 PMCID: PMC9385285 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4555490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The airway epithelial glycocalyx plays an important role in preventing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 entry into the epithelial cells, while the endothelial glycocalyx contributes to vascular permeability and tone, as well as modulating immune, inflammatory, and coagulation responses. With ample evidence in the scientific literature that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is related to epithelial and endothelial dysfunction, preserving the glycocalyx should be the main focus of any COVID-19 treatment protocol. The most studied functional unit of the glycocalyx is the glycosaminoglycan heparan sulfate, where the degree and position of the sulfate groups determine the biological activity. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and other sulfur donors contribute to the inorganic sulfate pool, the rate-limiting molecule in sulfation. NAC is not only a precursor to glutathione but also converts to hydrogen sulfide, inorganic sulfate, taurine, Coenzyme A, and albumin. By optimising inorganic sulfate availability, and therefore sulfation, it is proposed that COVID-19 can be prevented or at least most of the symptoms attenuated. A comprehensive COVID-19 treatment protocol is needed to preserve the glycocalyx in both the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. The use of NAC at a dosage of 600 mg bid for the prevention of COVID-19 is proposed, but a higher dosage of NAC (1200 mg bid) should be administered upon the first onset of symptoms. In the severe to critically ill, it is advised that IV NAC should be administered immediately upon hospital admission, and in the late stage of the disease, IV sodium thiosulfate should be considered. Doxycycline as a protease inhibitor will prevent shedding and further degradation of the glycocalyx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi N du Preez
- Catalysis and Peptide Research Unit, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban, South Africa
| | - Colleen Aldous
- College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Hendrik G Kruger
- Catalysis and Peptide Research Unit, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban, South Africa
| | - Lin Johnson
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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11
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Kapur A, Sharma M, Sageena G. Therapeutic potential of N-acetyl cysteine during COVID-19 epoch. World J Virol 2022; 11:104-106. [PMID: 35433335 PMCID: PMC8966593 DOI: 10.5501/wjv.v11.i2.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a promising drug for prophylaxis and treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) based on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Further studies with cautious approach are needed to establish the benefits and risks before considering NAC as an adjuvant treatment for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajita Kapur
- Department of Pharmacology, V.P. Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Munish Sharma
- Hindu Rao Hospital and NDMC Medical College, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Geetanjali Sageena
- Environmental Studies, Keshav Mahavidyalaya University of Delhi, New Delhi 110034, India
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12
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Finsterer J, Scorza FA, Scorza CA, Fiorini AC. Repurposing the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent N-acetyl cysteine for treating COVID-19. World J Virol 2022; 11:82-84. [PMID: 35117973 PMCID: PMC8788215 DOI: 10.5501/wjv.v11.i1.82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Although several considerations have been raised suggesting a beneficial effect of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) for the treatment of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, there is currently no clinical evidence that NAC truly prevents coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), reduces the severity of the disease, or improves the outcome. Appropriately designed clinical trials are warranted to prove or disprove a therapeutic effect of NAC for COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef Finsterer
- Neurological Department, Messerli Institute, Vienna 1180, Austria
| | - Fulvio A Scorza
- Department of Neurology, University of Sao Paolo, Sao Paolo 01000-000, Brazil
| | - Carla A Scorza
- Department of Neurology, University of Sao Paolo, Sao Paolo 01000-000, Brazil
| | - Ana C Fiorini
- Department of Neurology, University of Sao Paolo, Sao Paolo 01000-000, Brazil
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Liu Y, Long S, Zhang S, Tan Y, Wang T, Wu Y, Jiang T, Liu X, Peng D, Liu Z. Synthesis and antioxidant activities of berberine 9- O-benzoic acid derivatives. RSC Adv 2021; 11:17611-17621. [PMID: 35480221 PMCID: PMC9033176 DOI: 10.1039/d1ra01339d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although berberine (BBR) shows antioxidant activity, its activity is limited. We synthesized 9-O-benzoic acid berberine derivatives, and their antioxidant activities were screened via ABTS, DPPH, HOSC and FRAP assays. The para-position was modified with halogen elements on the benzoic acid ring, which led to an enhanced antioxidant activity and the substituent on the ortho-position was found to be better than the meta-position. Compounds 8p, 8c, 8d, 8i, 8j, 8l, and especially 8p showed significantly higher antioxidant activities, which could be attributed to the electronic donating groups. All the berberine derivatives possessed proper lipophilicities. In conclusion, compound 8p is a promising antioxidant candidate with remarkable elevated antioxidant activity and moderate lipophilicity. Although berberine (BBR) shows antioxidant activity, its activity is limited.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University Changsha 410083 China
| | - Shuo Long
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University Changsha 410083 China
| | - Shanshan Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University Changsha 410083 China
| | - Yifu Tan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University Changsha 410083 China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University Changsha 410013 China
| | - Yuwei Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University Changsha 410013 China
| | - Ting Jiang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University Changsha 410083 China
| | - Xiaoqin Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University Changsha 410083 China
| | - Dongming Peng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine Changsha 410208 China
| | - Zhenbao Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University Changsha 410013 China
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