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Krčmová LK, Javorská L, Matoušová K, Šmahel P, Skála M, Kopecký M, Suwanvecho C, Přívratská N, Turoňová D, Melichar B. Evaluation of inflammatory biomarkers and vitamins in hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection and post-COVID syndrome. Clin Chem Lab Med 2024; 62:1217-1227. [PMID: 38374668 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-1297] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Concentrations of neopterin, kynurenine and kynurenine/tryptophan ratios predict prognosis and the need for oxygen therapy in patients hospitalized for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the changes of these biomarkers early in the course of infection, the association with the prior coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccination and therapeutic administration of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal antibodies, investigation of other potential biomarkers including neuropilin, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine and 8-hydroxyguanosine in patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 infection and an assessment of these biomarkers and vitamins A, E and D in patients with post-COVID syndrome. METHODS Urine and blood samples were obtained on the 1st to the 4th day and 4th to 7th day from 108 patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Chromatography tandem mass spectrometry methods were used to analyse neopterin, kynurenine, tryptophan, liposoluble vitamins, and DNA damage biomarkers. RESULTS A statistically significant decrease of neopterin, kynurenine and kynurenine/tryptophan ratios was observed on after 4th to 7th day of hospitalization, and concentrations of these biomarkers were increased in patients with poor prognosis and subsequent post-COVID syndrome. The concentrations of remaining biomarker and vitamins were not associated with outcomes, although markedly decreased concentrations of vitamin A, E and D were noted. CONCLUSIONS The concentrations of neopterin, kynurenine and kynurenine/tryptophan ratios decrease during the course of infection SARS-CoV-2 and are associated with the post-COVID syndrome. No other prognostic biomarkers were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Kujovská Krčmová
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Diagnostics, University Hospital Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Javorská
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Diagnostics, University Hospital Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Kateřina Matoušová
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Diagnostics, University Hospital Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Šmahel
- Deparment of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Mikuláš Skála
- Department of Pneumology, University Hospital Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Kopecký
- Department of Pneumology, University Hospital Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Chaweewan Suwanvecho
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Diagnostics, University Hospital Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Nikola Přívratská
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Diagnostics, University Hospital Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Dorota Turoňová
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Diagnostics, University Hospital Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Bohuslav Melichar
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
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Dong H, Hao Y, Gao P. Vitamin D level in COVID-19 patients has positive correlations with autophagy and negative correlations with disease severity. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1388348. [PMID: 38783947 PMCID: PMC11112027 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1388348] [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: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives There is still incomplete understanding of the pathogenesis of COVID-19. Calcitriol, the main form of vitamin D in serum, regulates immune responses and increases resistance to pathogens, but the mechanism by which it protects against COVID-19 is uncertain. Autophagy has antiviral effects and helps to maintain homeostasis, but its specific role in COVID-19 is also uncertain. Both vitamin D and autophagy have important functions in the lung microenvironment. This study examined the relationship of serum vitamin D and autophagy-related proteins in patients with COVID-19 and evaluated their potential use as biomarkers. Methods Blood samples from COVID-19 patients at the Second Hospital of Jilin University were collected. The levels of vitamin D, autophagy-related proteins (Becline 1 [BECN1] and autophagy-related 7 [ATG7]), and inflammatory markers (TNF-α and IL-1β) were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Results We examined 25 patients with mild/moderate COVID-19 and 27 patients with severe/critical COVID-19. The group with severe/critical COVID-19 had more abnormalities in many laboratory indicators, including lower levels of autophagy markers (BECN1 and ATG7) and vitamin D, and higher levels of inflammatory markers (TNF-α and IL-1β). Partial correlation analysis showed that vitamin D had strong positive correlations with ATG7 (r = 0.819, p < 0.001) and BECN1 (r = 0.900, p < 0.001). Conclusion Our results demonstrated that the vitamin D level had significant negative correlations with COVID-19 severity and strong positive correlations with autophagy. These findings enhance our understanding of the pathogenesis of COVID-19, and provide a theoretical basis for clinical interventions that target autophagy and vitamin D.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peng Gao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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Zhang A, Yin Y, Tian J, Wang X, Yue Z, Pei L, Liu L, Qin L, Jia M, Wang H, Ma Q, Gao WB, Cao LL. The close association of micronutrients with COVID-19. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28629. [PMID: 38590883 PMCID: PMC11000022 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives The present study was conducted to explore the performance of micronutrients in the prediction and prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods This is an observational case-control study. 149 normal controls (NCs) and 214 COVID-19 patients were included in this study. Fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis, and inorganic elements were detected by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analysis. A logistic regression model based on six micronutrients were constructed using DxAI platform. Results Many micronutrients were dysregulated in COVID-19 compared to normal control (NC). 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3], magnesium (Mg), copper (Cu), calcium (Ca) and vitamin B6 (pyridoxic acid, PA) were significantly independent risk factors for COVID-19. The logistic regression model consisted of 25(OH)D3, Mg, Cu, Ca, vitamin B5 (VB5) and PA was developed, and displayed a strong discriminative capability to differentiate COVID-19 patients from NC individuals [area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) = 0.901]. In addition, the model had great predictive ability in discriminating mild/normal COVID-19 patients from NC individuals (AUROC = 0.883). Conclusions Our study showed that micronutrients were associated with COVID-19, and our logistic regression model based on six micronutrients has potential in clinical management of COVID-19, and will be useful for prediction of COVID-19 and screening of high-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimin Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, No.11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Yin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, No.11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, China
| | - Jiashu Tian
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, No.11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, China
| | - Xialin Wang
- Beckman Coulter Commercial Enterprise Co. Ltd., No.518 Fuquan North Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhihong Yue
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, No.11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Pei
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, No.11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, No.11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beihua University Affiliated Hospital, No. 12 Jiefang Middle Road, Jilin, China
| | - Li Qin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, No.11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, China
| | - Mei Jia
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, No.11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, No.11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, China
| | - Qingwei Ma
- Bioyong Technologies Inc., Dewei Science Park, No.12 Kechuang 13th Street, Beijing, China
| | - Wei-bo Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, No.11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, China
| | - Lin-Lin Cao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University People's Hospital, No.11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, China
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Wu JY, Liu MY, Hsu WH, Tsai YW, Liu TH, Huang PY, Chuang MH, Chin SE, Lai CC. Association between vitamin D deficiency and post-acute outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Eur J Nutr 2024; 63:613-622. [PMID: 38112761 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-023-03298-3] [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: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the association between vitamin D deficiency (VDD) and post-acute outcomes of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. METHODS This retrospective study used the TriNetX research network to identify COVID-19 patients between January 1 and November 30, 2022. Patients were matched using propensity score matching (PSM) and divided into VDD (< 20 ng/mL) and control (≥ 20 ng/mL) groups. The primary outcome was a composite of post-COVID-19 condition (identified by ICD-10 code), all-cause emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalization, and death during the follow-up period (90-180 days) after the diagnosis of COVID-19. RESULTS From an initial recruitment of 42,674 non-hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and known 25(OH)D status, a VDD group of 8300 was identified and propensity matched with 8300 controls. During the follow-up period, the VDD group had a higher risk of the primary outcome than did the control group [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.122; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.041-1.210]. The VDD group also had a higher risk of all-cause ED visits (HR = 1.114; 95% CI = 1.012-1.226), all-cause hospitalization (HR = 1.230; 95% CI = 1.105-1.369), and all-cause death (HR = 1.748; 95% CI = 1.047-2.290) but not post-COVID-19 condition (HR = 0.980; 95% CI = 0.630-1.523), individually. CONCLUSION Among the COVID-19 patients, VDD might be associated with a higher risk of all-cause ED visits, hospitalization, and death during the post-acute phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jheng-Yan Wu
- Department of Nutrition, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Yuan Liu
- Department of Nutrition, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Nutrition and Health Sciences, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Food Nutrition, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Health and Nutrition, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy & Science, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Hsuan Hsu
- Department of General Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Wen Tsai
- Center of Integrative Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Hui Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Po-Yu Huang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Min-Hsiang Chuang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Szu-En Chin
- Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Chiayi, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Cheng Lai
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan.
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
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Gomaa AA, Abdel-Wadood YA, Thabet RH, Gomaa GA. Pharmacological evaluation of vitamin D in COVID-19 and long COVID-19: recent studies confirm clinical validation and highlight metformin to improve VDR sensitivity and efficacy. Inflammopharmacology 2024; 32:249-271. [PMID: 37957515 PMCID: PMC10907442 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-023-01383-x] [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: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Nearly four years after its first appearance, and having gone from pandemic to endemic, the SARS-CoV-2 remains out of control globally. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of vitamin D (VD) in COVID-19 and long COVID-19, explain the discrepancy in clinical outcomes and highlight the potential impact of metformin on VD efficacy in recent articles. Articles from January 2022 to August 2023 were selected for this review. The objective of this study was achieved by reviewing, analyzing, and discussing articles demonstrating (1) the mechanism of action of VD (2) observational or randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that support or not the beneficial clinical effects of VD in COVID-19 or long COVID. (3) genetic and non-genetic reasons for the variation in the effects of VD. Articles were collected from electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Egyptian Knowledge Bank, Science Direct, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Twenty three studies conducted in vitro or in animal models indicated that VD may act in COVID-19 through protecting the respiratory system by antimicrobial peptide cathelicidins, reducing lung inflammation, regulating innate and adaptive immune functions and up regulation of autophagy gene activity. Our review identified 58 clinical studies that met the criteria. The number of publications supporting a beneficial clinical activity of VD in treating COVID-19 was 49 (86%), including 12 meta-analyses. Although the total patients included in all articles was 14,071,273, patients included in publications supporting a beneficial role of VD in COVID-19 were 14,029,411 (99.7%). Collectively, extensive observational studies indicated a decisive relationship between low VD levels and the severity of COVID-19 and mortality outcomes. Importantly, evidence from intervention studies has demonstrated the effectiveness of VD supplements in treating COVID-19. Furthermore, the results of 4 observational studies supported the beneficial role of VD in alleviating symptoms of long COVID-19 disease. However, eight RCTs and one meta-analysis of RCTs may contain low-grade evidence against a beneficial role of VD in COVID-19. Twenty-five articles have addressed the association between VDR and DBP genetic polymorphisms and treatment failure of VD in COVID-19. Impaired VDR signaling may underlie the variability of VD effects as non-genetic mechanisms. Interestingly, in recent studies, metformin has a beneficial therapeutic role in COVID-19 and long COVID-19, possibly by improving AMPK signaling of the VDR and enhancing the efficacy of the VD. In conclusion, evidence has been significantly strengthened over the past 18 months, with several meta-analyses and RCTs reporting conclusive beneficial effects of VD supplementation against COVID-19 and highlighting metformin to improve VDR sensitivity and efficacy in treating COVID-19 and long COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adel A Gomaa
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.
| | | | - Romany H Thabet
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
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Choi MG, Joo YW, Kim MH, Park S, Shin YY, Chun EM. Prognostic Factors for Predicting Post-COVID-19 Condition in Patients With COVID-19 in an Outpatient Setting. J Korean Med Sci 2024; 39:e23. [PMID: 38225786 PMCID: PMC10789531 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2024.39.e23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although data on post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) conditions are extensive, the prognostic factors affecting symptom duration in non-hospitalized patients with COVID-19 are currently not well known. We aimed to investigate the various prognostic factors affecting symptom duration among outpatients with COVID-19. METHODS Data were analyzed from 257 patients who were diagnosed with mild COVID-19 and visited the 'post-COVID-19 outpatient clinic' between April and December 2022 after a mandatory isolation period. The symptom duration was measured from diagnosis to symptom resolution. Laboratory and pulmonary function test results from their first visit were collected. RESULTS The mean age of patients was 55.7 years, and the median symptom duration was 57 days. The development of post-COVID-19 conditions (> 12 weeks) were significantly correlated with not using antiviral drugs, leukocytosis (white blood cell > 10,000/µL), lower 25(OH)D3 levels, forced vital capacity (FVC) < 90% predicted, and presence of dyspnea and anxiety/depression. Additionally, in multivariable Cox regression analysis, not using antiviral drugs, lower 25(OH)D3 levels, and having dyspnea were poor prognostic factors for longer symptom duration. Particularly, vitamin D deficiency (< 20 ng/mL) and not using antivirals during the acute phase were independent poor prognostic factors for both post-COVID-19 condition and longer symptom duration. CONCLUSION The non-use of antivirals, lower 25(OH)D3 levels, leukocytosis, FVC < 90% predicted, and the presence of dyspnea and anxiety/depression symptoms could be useful prognostic factors for predicting post-COVID-19 condition in outpatients with COVID-19. We suggest that the use of antiviral agents during the acute phase and vitamin D supplements might help reduce COVID-19 symptom duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myeong Geun Choi
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Woong Joo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min-Ho Kim
- Informatization Department, Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sojung Park
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yune-Young Shin
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Mi Chun
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Wall-Gremstrup G, Holt R, Yahyavi SK, Jorsal MJ, Juul A, Jørgensen N, Blomberg Jensen M. High-dose vitamin D 3 supplementation shows no beneficial effects on white blood cell counts, acute phase reactants, or frequency of respiratory infections. Respir Res 2024; 25:11. [PMID: 38178229 PMCID: PMC10765571 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-023-02642-9] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitamin D has been suggested to influence the immune system, and vitamin D metabolites and the vitamin D receptor (VDR) are generated and expressed in white blood cells (WBC). Moreover, vitamin D status has been associated with incidence and prognosis of some respiratory tract infections (RTI). Therefore, we investigated the effect of vitamin D3 supplementation on WBC, acute phase reactants (APR), and the risk of developing RTIs. METHODS A double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial of 307 infertile men with multiple secondary immunological endpoints. The vitamin D3 group (n = 151) initially received 300,000 IU (7,500 µg) cholecalciferol once - followed by 1,400 IU (35 µg) daily for 150 days. The placebo group (n = 156) did not receive active ingredients. RESULTS At baseline, stratification into clinically relevant groups of vitamin D status (< 25; 25-50; 50-75; >75 nmol/L), showed an inverse association with total leucocyte concentrations (7.0 vs. 6.0 vs. 6.0 vs. 5.5 (109/L); p = 0.007), lymphocytes (2.4 vs. 2.1 vs. 2.0 vs. 2.0 (109/L); p = 0.048), CRP (2.0 vs. 1.7 vs. 1.2 vs. 1.2 (mg/L); p = 0.037), and orosomucoid (0.82 vs. 0.77 vs. 0.76 vs. 0.70 (g/L); p = 0.015). After 150 days, no differences were detected in WBC counts or APRs between the vitamin D3 and the placebo group. However, vitamin D3 treated men had a higher prevalence of self-reported RTIs compared with the placebo group (55% vs. 39%; p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS High-dose vitamin D3 supplementation did not alter WBCs or APRs, but a higher prevalence of respiratory infections was observed in the vitamin D3 group. Serum 25(OH)D3 was negatively correlated with most WBCs, indicating that vitamin D status may be linked with inflammation and WBC turnover, but not an important determinant of developing RTIs. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT01304927 (ClinicalTrials.gov). Registered February 20, 2011.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustav Wall-Gremstrup
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rune Holt
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sam Kafai Yahyavi
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mads Joon Jorsal
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin Blomberg Jensen
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Ahmad AS, Juber NF, Al-Naseri H, Heumann C, Ali R, Oliver T. Association between Average Vitamin D Levels and COVID-19 Mortality in 19 European Countries-A Population-Based Study. Nutrients 2023; 15:4818. [PMID: 38004213 PMCID: PMC10680994 DOI: 10.3390/nu15224818] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Early epidemic reports have linked low average 25(OH) vitamin D levels with increased COVID-19 mortality. However, there has been limited updated research on 25(OH) vitamin D and its impact on COVID-19 mortality. This study aimed to update the initial report studying the link between vitamin D deficiency and COVID-19 mortality by using multi-country data in 19 European countries up to the middle of June 2023. COVID-19 data for 19 European countries included in this study were downloaded from Our World in Data from 1 March 2020, to 14 June 2023, and were included in the statistical analysis. The 25(OH) vitamin D average data were collected by conducting a literature review. A generalized estimation equation model was used to model the data. Compared to European countries with 25(OH) vitamin D levels of ≤50 nmol/L, European countries with 25(OH) vitamin D average levels greater than 50 nmol/L had lower COVID-19 mortality rates (RR = 0.794, 95% CI: 0.662-0.953). A statistically significant negative Spearman rank correlation was observed between 25(OH) vitamin D average levels and COVID-19 mortality. We also found significantly lower COVID-19 mortality rates in countries with high average 25(OH) vitamin D levels. Randomized trials on vitamin D supplementation are needed. In the meantime, the issue of vitamin D use should be debated in relation to the ongoing discussions of national post-COVID-19 resilience against future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amar S. Ahmad
- Cancer Intelligence, Cancer Research UK, London E20 1JQ, UK
| | - Nirmin F. Juber
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 129188, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Heba Al-Naseri
- Academic Unit of Medical Education, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK;
| | - Christian Heumann
- Department of Statistics, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 80539 München, Germany;
| | - Raghib Ali
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SL, UK;
| | - Tim Oliver
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6AU, UK;
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9
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Hikmet RG, Wejse C, Agergaard J. Effect of Vitamin D in Long COVID Patients. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:7058. [PMID: 37998290 PMCID: PMC10671780 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20227058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Vitamin D deficiency has been studied in the context of acute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), revealing associations with increased severity and mortality. Yet, the influence of vitamin D on long COVID symptoms remains unknown. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of vitamin D on long COVID symptoms. Over the study period, 50,432 individuals within the catchment area of the outpatient COVID-19 clinic tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 via PCR, with 547 patients subsequently referred to a specialized Post-COVID Clinic, and 447 of them enrolled in the study. Patient-reported symptoms and paraclinical measures including vitamin D were evaluated in 442 patients. The majority of participants were female (72%, n = 320/442). The consumption of alcohol and number of current smokers were low. Low vitamin D was observed in 26% (n = 115/442) of the patients, most commonly in male participants (odds ratio (OR) = 1.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.12, 2.79), p = 0.014). Additionally, low vitamin D was correlated with a younger mean age of 41 years (standard deviation (SD) = 12) as opposed to 48 years (SD = 13) in patients with normal vitamin D levels (OR = 0.96, 95% CI (0.94, 0.97), p < 0.001). While our study population indicated a potentially higher prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in this population compared to the general population, no significant differences in prevalence of symptom or symptom severity scores were observed between the low and normal vitamin D groups. In patients in a Post-COVID Clinic, we found no association between vitamin D levels and long COVID symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramsen Ghasan Hikmet
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark (J.A.)
| | - Christian Wejse
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark (J.A.)
- Center for Global Health, Aarhus University (GloHAU), 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jane Agergaard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark (J.A.)
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
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Gotelli E, Soldano S, Hysa E, Casabella A, Cere A, Pizzorni C, Paolino S, Sulli A, Smith V, Cutolo M. Understanding the Immune-Endocrine Effects of Vitamin D in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Role in Protecting against Neurodamage. Neuroimmunomodulation 2023; 30:185-195. [PMID: 37557090 PMCID: PMC10614436 DOI: 10.1159/000533286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcitriol and hydroxyderivatives of lumisterol and tachisterol are secosteroid hormones with immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, several studies have correlated deficient serum concentrations of vitamin D3 (calcifediol) with increased severity of the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Among systemic complications, subjective (anosmia, ageusia, depression, dizziness) and objective (ischemic stroke, meningoencephalitis, myelitis, seizures, Guillain-Barré syndrome) neurological symptoms have been reported in up to 80% of severe COVID-19 patients. In this narrative review, we will resume the pathophysiology of SARS-CoV-2 infection and the mechanisms of acute and chronic neurological damage. SARS-CoV-2 can disrupt the integrity of the endothelial cells of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to enter the nervous central system. Invasion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and polarization of astrocytes and microglia cells always in a pro-inflammatory sense together with the pro-coagulative phenotype of cerebral endothelial cells in response to both SARS-CoV-2 and immune cells invasion (immunothrombosis) are the major drivers of neurodamage. Calcitriol and hydroxyderivatives of lumisterol and tachisterol could play an adjuvant role in neuroprotection through mitigation of neuroinflammation and protection of endothelial integrity of the BBB. Dedicated studies on this topic are currently lacking and are desirable to confirm the link between vitamin D3 and neuroprotection in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Gotelli
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Stefano Soldano
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Elvis Hysa
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Casabella
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Cere
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Carmen Pizzorni
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Sabrina Paolino
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Alberto Sulli
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Vanessa Smith
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
- Unit for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, Inflammation Research Center, Flemish Institute for Biotechnology, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maurizio Cutolo
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
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Mingiano C, Picchioni T, Cavati G, Pirrotta F, Calabrese M, Nuti R, Gonnelli S, Fortini A, Frediani B, Gennari L, Merlotti D. Vitamin D Deficiency in COVID-19 Patients and Role of Calcifediol Supplementation. Nutrients 2023; 15:3392. [PMID: 37571329 PMCID: PMC10421093 DOI: 10.3390/nu15153392] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypovitaminosis D has been associated with worse outcome in respiratory tract infections, with conflicting opinions regarding its role in Coronavirus-19 disease (COVID-19). Our study aimed to evaluate the possible relationship between 25-OH vitamin D (25OHD) values and the following conditions in patients hospitalized for COVID-19: prognosis, mortality, invasive (IV) and non-invasive (NIV) mechanical ventilation, and orotracheal intubation (OTI). A further objective was the analysis of a possible positive effect of supplementation with calcifediol on COVID-19 severity and prognosis. We analyzed 288 patients hospitalized at the San Giovanni di Dio Hospital in Florence and the Santa Maria alle Scotte Hospital in Siena, from November 2020 to February 2021. The 25OHD levels correlated positively with the partial pressure of oxygen and FiO2 (PaO2/FiO2) ratio (r = 0.17; p < 0.05). Furthermore, when we analyzed the patients according to the type of respiratory support, we found that 25OHD levels were markedly reduced in patients who underwent non-invasive ventilation and orotracheal intubation (OTI). The evaluation of the length of hospitalization in our population evidenced a longer duration of hospitalization in patients with severe 25OHD deficiency (<10 ng/mL). Moreover, we found a statistically significant difference in the mortality rate between patients who had 25OHD levels below 10 ng/mL and those with levels above this threshold in the total population (50.8% vs. 25.5%, p = 0.005), as well as between patients with 25OHD levels below 20 ng/mL and those with levels above that threshold (38.4% vs. 24.6%, p = 0.04). Moreover, COVID-19 patients supplemented with calcifediol presented a significantly reduced length of hospitalization (p < 0.05). Interestingly, when we analyzed the possible effects of calcifediol on mortality rate in patients with COVID-19, we found that the percentage of deaths was significantly higher in patients who did not receive any supplementation than in those who were treated with calcifediol (p < 0.05) In conclusion, we have demonstrated with our study the best prognosis of COVID-19 patients with adequate vitamin D levels and patients treated with calcifediol supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Mingiano
- Department of Medicine Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.M.); (G.C.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (R.N.); (S.G.); (B.F.); (L.G.)
| | - Tommaso Picchioni
- Internal Medicine Unit, Ospedale San Giovanni di Dio, 50143 Florence, Italy; (T.P.); (A.F.)
| | - Guido Cavati
- Department of Medicine Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.M.); (G.C.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (R.N.); (S.G.); (B.F.); (L.G.)
| | - Filippo Pirrotta
- Department of Medicine Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.M.); (G.C.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (R.N.); (S.G.); (B.F.); (L.G.)
| | - Marco Calabrese
- Department of Medicine Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.M.); (G.C.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (R.N.); (S.G.); (B.F.); (L.G.)
| | - Ranuccio Nuti
- Department of Medicine Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.M.); (G.C.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (R.N.); (S.G.); (B.F.); (L.G.)
| | - Stefano Gonnelli
- Department of Medicine Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.M.); (G.C.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (R.N.); (S.G.); (B.F.); (L.G.)
| | - Alberto Fortini
- Internal Medicine Unit, Ospedale San Giovanni di Dio, 50143 Florence, Italy; (T.P.); (A.F.)
| | - Bruno Frediani
- Department of Medicine Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.M.); (G.C.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (R.N.); (S.G.); (B.F.); (L.G.)
| | - Luigi Gennari
- Department of Medicine Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.M.); (G.C.); (F.P.); (M.C.); (R.N.); (S.G.); (B.F.); (L.G.)
| | - Daniela Merlotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Gholamalizadeh M, Rabbani F, Ahmadzadeh M, Hajipour A, Musavi H, Mobarakeh KA, Salimi Z, Bahar B, Mahmoodi Z, Gholami S, Mirzaei Dahka S, Doaei S, Akbari ME. The association between vitamin D intake with inflammatory and biochemical indices and mortality in critically ill patients with COVID-19: A case-control study. Immun Inflamm Dis 2023; 11:e844. [PMID: 37102656 PMCID: PMC10132183 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.844] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has become a worldwide health issue with widespread hospitalization and dependence on the intensive care unit (ICU). Vitamin D has a key role in modulating immune cells and modulating the inflammatory responses. This study aimed to investigate the association of vitamin D supplementation with inflammatory, biochemical, and mortality indices in critically ill patients with COVID-19. METHODS This case-control study was conducted on critically ill COVID-19 patients hospitalized in the ICU including the survived >30 day patients as the case group and dead patients as the control group. The status of vitamin D supplementation and inflammatory and biochemical indices of the patients were retrieved from the medical records. Logistic regression method was used to assess the association between 30 days survival and vitamin D supplement intake. RESULTS Compared to the group of COVID-19 patients who died in <30 day, the survived patients had a lower eosinophile level (2.2 ± 0.5 vs. 6 ± 0.0, p < .001) and higher vitamin D supplementation duration (9 ± 4.4 vs. 3.3 ± 1.9 day, p = .001). Vitamin D supplementation had a positive association with survival in COVID-19 patients (OR: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.15-3.40, p < .05). The association remained significant after adjustments fot age, sex, underlying diseases, and smoking. CONCLUSION Vitamin D supplementation in critically ill patients with COVID-19 has the potential to increase survivability within the first 30 days of hospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Gholamalizadeh
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faezeh Rabbani
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mina Ahmadzadeh
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azadeh Hajipour
- School of Health, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | | | - Khadijeh Abbasi Mobarakeh
- Department of Community Nutrition, Nutrition and Food Security Research Center, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Zahra Salimi
- Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Bojlul Bahar
- Nutrition Sciences and Applied Food Safety Studies, Research Centre for Global Development, School of Sport & Health Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Zahra Mahmoodi
- Department of Nutrition, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Gholami
- Razi Hospital, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | | | - Saeid Doaei
- Department of Community Nutrition, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Zsichla L, Müller V. Risk Factors of Severe COVID-19: A Review of Host, Viral and Environmental Factors. Viruses 2023; 15:175. [PMID: 36680215 PMCID: PMC9863423 DOI: 10.3390/v15010175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical course and outcome of COVID-19 are highly variable, ranging from asymptomatic infections to severe disease and death. Understanding the risk factors of severe COVID-19 is relevant both in the clinical setting and at the epidemiological level. Here, we provide an overview of host, viral and environmental factors that have been shown or (in some cases) hypothesized to be associated with severe clinical outcomes. The factors considered in detail include the age and frailty, genetic polymorphisms, biological sex (and pregnancy), co- and superinfections, non-communicable comorbidities, immunological history, microbiota, and lifestyle of the patient; viral genetic variation and infecting dose; socioeconomic factors; and air pollution. For each category, we compile (sometimes conflicting) evidence for the association of the factor with COVID-19 outcomes (including the strength of the effect) and outline possible action mechanisms. We also discuss the complex interactions between the various risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Levente Zsichla
- Institute of Biology, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
- National Laboratory for Health Security, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Viktor Müller
- Institute of Biology, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
- National Laboratory for Health Security, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
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