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Liu HH, Xie Y, Yang BP, Wen HY, Yang PH, Lu JE, Liu Y, Chen X, Qu MM, Zhang Y, Hong WG, Li YG, Fu J, Wang FS. Safety, immunogenicity and protective effect of sequential vaccination with inactivated and recombinant protein COVID-19 vaccine in the elderly: a prospective longitudinal study. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:129. [PMID: 38740763 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01846-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines in the elderly, a high-risk group for severe COVID-19 infection, have not been fully understood. To clarify these issues, this prospective study followed up 157 elderly and 73 young participants for 16 months and compared the safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of two doses of the inactivated vaccine BBIBP-CorV followed by a booster dose of the recombinant protein vaccine ZF2001. The results showed that this vaccination protocol was safe and tolerable in the elderly. After administering two doses of the BBIBP-CorV, the positivity rates and titers of neutralizing and anti-RBD antibodies in the elderly were significantly lower than those in the young individuals. After the ZF2001 booster dose, the antibody-positive rates in the elderly were comparable to those in the young; however, the antibody titers remained lower. Gender, age, and underlying diseases were independently associated with vaccine immunogenicity in elderly individuals. The pseudovirus neutralization assay showed that, compared with those after receiving two doses of BBIBP-CorV priming, some participants obtained immunological protection against BA.5 and BF.7 after receiving the ZF2001 booster. Breakthrough infection symptoms last longer in the infected elderly and pre-infection antibody titers were negatively associated with the severity of post-infection symptoms. The antibody levels in the elderly increased significantly after breakthrough infection but were still lower than those in the young. Our data suggest that multiple booster vaccinations at short intervals to maintain high antibody levels may be an effective strategy for protecting the elderly against COVID-19.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- COVID-19/prevention & control
- COVID-19/immunology
- Female
- Male
- Aged
- COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
- COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
- COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
- SARS-CoV-2/immunology
- Prospective Studies
- Antibodies, Viral/immunology
- Antibodies, Viral/blood
- Vaccines, Inactivated/immunology
- Vaccines, Inactivated/adverse effects
- Vaccines, Inactivated/administration & dosage
- Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
- Antibodies, Neutralizing/blood
- Aged, 80 and over
- Adult
- Vaccination
- Longitudinal Studies
- Middle Aged
- Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
- Vaccines, Synthetic/adverse effects
- Vaccines, Synthetic/administration & dosage
- Immunogenicity, Vaccine/immunology
- Immunization, Secondary
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Hong Liu
- Out-patient Department of Day Diagnosis and Treatment, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Yunbo Xie
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China
- Chinese PLA Medical School, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Bao-Peng Yang
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Huan-Yue Wen
- Hunyuan County People's Hospital, Datong, 037499, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Peng-Hui Yang
- Faculty of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Jin-E Lu
- Hunyuan County People's Hospital, Datong, 037499, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Out-patient Department of Day Diagnosis and Treatment, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Meng-Meng Qu
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Wei-Guo Hong
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Yong-Gang Li
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Junliang Fu
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China.
- Chinese PLA Medical School, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
| | - Fu-Sheng Wang
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, 100039, China.
- Chinese PLA Medical School, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
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2
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Sun Y, Huang ZL, Chen WX, Zhang YF, Lei HT, Huang QJ, Lun ZR, Qu LH, Zheng LL. GateView: A Multi-Omics Platform for Gene Feature Analysis of Virus Receptors within Human Normal Tissues and Tumors. Biomolecules 2024; 14:516. [PMID: 38785923 PMCID: PMC11118183 DOI: 10.3390/biom14050516] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites that rely on cell surface receptor molecules to complete the first step of invading host cells. The experimental method for virus receptor screening is time-consuming, and receptor molecules have been identified for less than half of known viruses. This study collected known human viruses and their receptor molecules. Through bioinformatics analysis, common characteristics of virus receptor molecules (including sequence, expression, mutation, etc.) were obtained to study why these membrane proteins are more likely to become virus receptors. An in-depth analysis of the cataloged virus receptors revealed several noteworthy findings. Compared to other membrane proteins, human virus receptors generally exhibited higher expression levels and lower sequence conservation. These receptors were found in multiple tissues, with certain tissues and cell types displaying significantly higher expression levels. While most receptor molecules showed noticeable age-related variations in expression across different tissues, only a limited number of them exhibited gender-related differences in specific tissues. Interestingly, in contrast to normal tissues, virus receptors showed significant dysregulation in various types of tumors, particularly those associated with dsRNA and retrovirus receptors. Finally, GateView, a multi-omics platform, was established to analyze the gene features of virus receptors in human normal tissues and tumors. Serving as a valuable resource, it enables the exploration of common patterns among virus receptors and the investigation of virus tropism across different tissues, population preferences, virus pathogenicity, and oncolytic virus mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Liang-Hu Qu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China; (Y.S.); (Z.-L.H.); (W.-X.C.); (Y.-F.Z.); (H.-T.L.); (Q.-J.H.); (Z.-R.L.)
| | - Ling-Ling Zheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China; (Y.S.); (Z.-L.H.); (W.-X.C.); (Y.-F.Z.); (H.-T.L.); (Q.-J.H.); (Z.-R.L.)
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Kardiasyah A, Syarani F, Bihar S, Lubis ND, Mutiara E, Syahputra H. Relationship between interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and chest X-ray severity scoring in COVID-19 patients. NARRA J 2024; 4:e690. [PMID: 38798831 PMCID: PMC11125309 DOI: 10.52225/narra.v4i1.690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be measured by interleukin-6 (IL-6) and chest X-rays. Brixia score of the chest radiographs is usually used to monitor COVID-19 patients' lung problems. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the relationship between IL-6 levels and chest radiographs (Brixia score) that represent COVID-19 severity. A retrospective cohort study was conducted among COVID-19 patients who had a chest X-ray and examination of IL-6 levels at H. Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia. A multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the association between IL-6 levels and the severity of the chest radiograph. A total of 76 COVID-19 patients were included in the study and 39.5% of them were 60-69 years old, with more than half were female (52.6%). A total of 17.1%, 48.7%, and 34.2% had IL-6 level of <7 pg/mL, 7-50 pg/mL and >50 pg/mL, respectively. There were 39.5%, 36.8% and 23.7% of the patients had mild, moderate and severe chest X-rays based on Brixia score, respectively. Statistics analysis revealed that moderate (OR: 1.77; 95% CI: 1.05- 3.32) and severe (OR: 1.33; 95% CI: 1.03-3.35) lung conditions in the chest X-rays were significantly associated with IL-6 levels of 7-50 pg/mL. IL-6 more than 50 pg/mL was associated with severe chest X-ray condition (OR: 1.97; 95% CI: 1.15-3.34). In conclusion, high IL-6 levels significantly reflected COVID-19 severity through chest X-rays in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alzi Kardiasyah
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Fajrinur Syarani
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Syamsul Bihar
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Netty D. Lubis
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia
- Department of Radiology, Universitas Sumatera Utara General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Erna Mutiara
- Department of Community and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Hafid Syahputra
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, Indonesia
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Alkhawaldeh O, Jarrar Y, Gharaibeh M, Abudahab S, Abulebdah D, Jarrar B. Alterations in the gene expression of SARS-COV-2 entry receptors and enzymes in lungs and hearts of controlled and uncontrolled diabetic mice. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2024; 38:328-340. [PMID: 37950353 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12964] [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: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The entry of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) into the host cell is carried out by specific receptors and enzymes, including human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor (ACE2), transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), and cathepsin-L (CTSL). COVID-19 patients with comorbidities, such as diabetes mellitus (DM), are more prone to severe symptoms and have a higher risk of mortality. AIMS The present study aimed to investigate the impact of controlled and uncontrolled type 1 DM (T1DM) on the gene expression of mouse Ace2, Tmprss2, and Ctsl and correlate it with the pathological alterations in the lungs and the heart of DM mice. METHODS Balb/c mice were administered a single dose of 240 mg/kg streptozocin to induce T1DM. The blood glucose level was measured to confirm the induction of DM. Normalization of blood glucose levels in T1DM mice was achieved using 0.1 mL/kg Mixtard® insulin therapy. The mice's lungs and hearts were harvested, and the mRNA was extracted and converted to cDNA. The gene expression of Ace2, Tmprss2, Ctsl, Cyp4a11, and Adrb1 genes, which play a role in the homeostasis of lungs and hearts, were measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The pathological alterations in the hearts and lungs induced by T1DM were evaluated using the relative heart and lung weights, in addition to the pathohistological examination. RESULTS After inducing T1DM for 14 days, we observed a significant reduction in the total weight of uncontrolled DM (UDM) mice (P < 0.05). Pathohistological examination of UDM lung tissues revealed thickening of the alveolar walls with narrowing of the surface of the alveolar sacs. Additionally, we found that UDM mice exhibited downregulation of Ace2 gene expression (P < 0.05) in their lungs, while both UDM and control DM (CDM) mice showed upregulation of Ctsl gene expression in their hearts (P < 0.05). Notably, Cyp4a12 gene expression was significantly downregulated (P < 0.05) in UDM mice but returned to normal levels in CDM mice. CONCLUSIONS We conclude from this study that T1DM downregulates Ace2 receptor and Cyp4a12 gene expression, which is correlated with the thickening of alveolar walls and narrowing of the surface of alveolar sacs in the lungs. Insulin administration for controlling T1DM ameliorated these pathological alterations. These results can help increase our understanding of the impact of controlled and uncontrolled T1DM on the lungs and may explain, at least in part, why DM patients with COVID-19 experience exacerbation of symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ohood Alkhawaldeh
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Yazun Jarrar
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt, Jordan
| | - Munir Gharaibeh
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Sara Abudahab
- Deparment of Pharmacotherapy and Outcomes Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Dina Abulebdah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Bashir Jarrar
- Nanobiology Unit, Department of Biology, College of Science, Jerash University, Jerash, Jordan
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5
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Gaber DA, Shokr M, Shaker O, Zaki KA, Khalil HS, Wahb AM. Serum ACE2 and S19P gene polymorphism in Egyptian patients with COVID-19 infection: correlation with disease severity. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5846. [PMID: 38462662 PMCID: PMC10925588 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56260-6] [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: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The expression of ACE2 is linked to disease severity in COVID-19 patients. The ACE2 receptor gene polymorphisms are considered determinants for SARS-CoV-2 infection and its outcome. In our study, serum ACE2 and its genetic variant S19P rs73635825 polymorphism were investigated in 114 SARS-CoV-2 patients. The results were compared with 120 control subjects. ELISA technique and allele discrimination assay were used for measuring serum ACE2 and genotype analysis of ACE2 rs73635825. Our results revealed that serum ACE2 was significantly lower in SARS-CoV-2 patients (p = 0.0001), particularly in cases with hypertension or diabetes mellitus. There was a significant difference in the genotype distributions of ACE2 rs73635825 A > G between COVID-19 patients and controls (p-value = 0.001). A higher frequency of the heterozygous AG genotype (65.8%) was reported in COVID-19 patients. The G allele was significantly more common in COVID-19 patients (p < 0.0001). The AG and GG genotypes were associated with COVID-19 severity as they were correlated with abnormal laboratory findings, GGO, CXR, and total severity scores with p < 0.05. Our results revealed that the ACE2 S19P gene variant is correlated with the incidence of infection and its severity, suggesting the usefulness of this work in identifying the susceptible population groups for better disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia A Gaber
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt.
- College of Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE.
| | - Mohamed Shokr
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, MUST University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Olfat Shaker
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Kamelia Ahmed Zaki
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, MUST University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Haidy Samir Khalil
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amany M Wahb
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
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6
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Yoshihara F. Association between blood pressure and COVID-19 severity. Hypertens Res 2024; 47:683-684. [PMID: 38145992 DOI: 10.1038/s41440-023-01557-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Fumiki Yoshihara
- National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, 6-1 Kishibe-Shimmachi, Suita, Osaka, 564-8565, Japan.
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Cimolai N. COVID-19 among infants: key clinical features and remaining controversies. Clin Exp Pediatr 2024; 67:1-16. [PMID: 38013408 PMCID: PMC10764668 DOI: 10.3345/cep.2023.00794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Infants aged <1 year represent a seemingly more susceptible pediatric subset for infections. Despite this, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection has not been proven as more serious in this age group (outside the very early neonatal period) than in others. Indeed, a considerable number of asymptomatic infections have been recorded, and the symptoms and morbidity associated with COVID- 19 differ minimally from those of other respiratory viral infections. Whether due to an abundance of caution or truly reduced susceptibility, infections in infants have not raised the same profile as those in other age groups. In addition to direct severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 diagnostic tests, laboratory markers that differentiate COVID-19 from other viral infections lack specificity in infants. Gastrointestinal presentations are common, and the neurological complications of infection mirror those of other respiratory viral infections. There have been relatively few reports of infant deaths. Under appropriate precautions, breastfeeding in the context of maternal infections has been associated with tangible but infrequent complications. Vaccination during pregnancy provides protection against infection in infants, at least in the early months of life. Multi-inflammatory syndrome in children and multi-inflammatory syndrome in neonates are commonly cited as variants of COVID-19; however, their clinical definitions remain controversial. Similarly, reliable definitions of long COVID in the infant group are controversial. This narrative review examines the key clinical and laboratory features of COVID-19 in infants and identifies several areas of science awaiting further clarification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nevio Cimolai
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia and Children’s and Women’s Health Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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8
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Choi CY, Gadhave K, Villano J, Pekosz A, Mao X, Jia H. Generation and characterization of a humanized ACE2 mouse model to study long-term impacts of SARS-CoV-2 infection. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29349. [PMID: 38185937 PMCID: PMC10783855 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29349] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Although the COVID-19 pandemic has officially ended, the persistent challenge of long-COVID or post-acute COVID sequelae (PASC) continues to impact societies globally, highlighting the urgent need for ongoing research into its mechanisms and therapeutic approaches. Our team has recently developed a novel humanized ACE2 mouse model (hACE2ki) designed explicitly for long-COVID/PASC research. This model exhibits human ACE2 expression in tissue and cell-specific patterns akin to mouse Ace2. When we exposed young adult hACE2ki mice (6 weeks old) to various SARS-CoV-2 lineages, including WA, Delta, and Omicron, at a dose of 5 × 105 PFU/mouse via nasal instillation, the mice demonstrated distinctive phenotypes characterized by differences in viral load in the lung, trachea, and nasal turbinate, weight loss, and changes in pro-inflammatory cytokines and immune cell profiles in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Notably, no mortality was observed in this age group. Further, to assess the model's relevance for long-COVID studies, we investigated tau protein pathologies, which are linked to Alzheimer's disease, in the brains of these mice post SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our findings revealed the accumulation and longitudinal propagation of tau, confirming the potential of our hACE2ki mouse model for preclinical studies of long-COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Yong Choi
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School, of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Kundlik Gadhave
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jason Villano
- Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Andrew Pekosz
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Xiaobo Mao
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Department of Material Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Hongpeng Jia
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School, of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Yilmaz D, Ekemen Keles Y, Emiroglu M, Duramaz BB, Ugur C, Aldemir Kocabas B, Celik T, Ozdemir H, Bayturan S, Turel O, Erdeniz EH, Cakici O, Cakmak Taskin E, Erbas İC, Genceli M, Sari EE, Caymaz C, Kizil MC, Sutcu M, Demirbuga A, Alkan G, Bagcı Z, Timurtas Dayar G, Ozkan EA, Tekin Yilmaz A, Akca M, Yesil E, Kara SS, Akturk H, Yasar B, Umit Z, Uygun H, Erdem N, Buyukcam A, Karadag Oncel E, Tuter Oz SK, Cetin HS, Anil AB, Yilmaz R, Zengin N, Uzuner S, Albayrak H, Borakay O, Topal S, Arslan G, Yazar A, Ozer A, Kendirli T, Kara EM, Demirkol D, Battal F, Kosker M, Metin Akcan O, Kihtir HS, Gul D, Zararci K, Alakaya M, Kula N, Celik E, Petmezci E, Evren G, Kara Aksay A, Konca C, Sert A, Arslan D, Bornaun H, Tekeli O, Bal A, Sahin IO, Demir S, Sap F, Akyol MB, Tanidir IC, Donmez YN, Ucar T, Coban S, Arga G, Hancerli Torun S, Karpuz D, Celik SF, Varan C, Elmali F, Oncel S, Belet N, Hatipoglu N, Dalgic Karabulut N, Turgut M, Somer A, Kuyucu N, Dinleyici EC, Ciftci E, Kara A. Evaluation of 601 children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome (Turk MISC study). Eur J Pediatr 2023; 182:5531-5542. [PMID: 37782350 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05207-6] [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: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Due to its link with the 2019 coronavirus, the multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MISC) has garnered considerable international interest. The aim of this study, in which MISC patients were evaluated multicenter, and the data of the third period of the Turk-MISC study group, to compare the clinical and laboratory characteristics and outcomes of MISC patients who did and did not require admission to an intensive care unit (ICU). METHODS This retrospective multicenter observational study was carried out between June 11, 2021, and January 01, 2022. The demographics, complaints, laboratory results, system involvements, and outcomes of the patients were documented. RESULTS A total of 601 patients were enrolled; 157 patients (26.1%) required hospitalization in the intensive care unit (ICU). Median age was 8 years (interquartile range (IQR) 4.5-11.3 years. The proportion of Kawasaki disease-like features in the ICU group was significantly higher than in the non-ICU group (56.1% vs. 43.2% p = 0.006). The ICU group had considerably lower counts of both lymphocytes and platelets (lymphocyte count 900 vs. 1280 cells × μL, platelet count 153 vs. 212 cells × 103/ μL, all for p< 0.001). C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, and ferritin levels were significantly higher in the ICU group (CRP 164 vs. 129 mg/L, procalcitonin 9.2 vs. 2.2 μg/L, ferritin 644 vs. 334 μg/L, all for p< 0.001). Being between ages 5-12 and older than 12 increased the likelihood of hospitalization in the ICU by four [95% confidence intervals (CI)1.971-8.627] and six times (95% CI 2.575-14.654), respectively, compared to being between the ages 0-5. A one-unit increase in log D-dimer (µg/L) and log troponin (ng/L) was also demonstrated to increase the need for intensive care by 1.8 (95% CI 1.079-3.233) and 1.4 times (95% CI 1.133-1.789), respectively. Conclusion: By comparing this study to our other studies, we found that the median age of MISC patients has been rising. Patients requiring an ICU stay had considerably higher levels of procalcitonin, CRP, and ferritin but significantly lower levels of lymphocyte and thrombocyte. In particular, high levels of procalcitonin in the serum might serve as a valuable laboratory marker for anticipating the need for intensive care. WHAT IS KNOWN • Lymphopenia and thrombocytopenia were an independent predictor factors in patients with MISC who needed to stay in intensive care unit. • The possibility of the need to stay in the intensive care unit in patients with MISC who had Kawasaki disease-like findings was controversial compared with those who did not. WHAT IS NEW • A one-unit increase log D dimer and log troponin was demonstrated to require for intensive care unit by 1.8 and 1.4 times, respectively. • Serum procalcitonin levels had the best performance to predict stay in the intensive care unit stay.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yildiz Ekemen Keles
- Health Sciences University Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Gaziler Street Number: 468, 35020, Yenisehir Konak/Izmir, Turkey.
| | | | | | - Cuneyt Ugur
- University of Health Sciences Konya Health Application and Research Center, Konya, Turkey
| | | | - Talyan Celik
- Canakkale On Sekiz Mart University Hospital, Canakkale, Turkey
| | - Halil Ozdemir
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Ozden Turel
- Bezmialem Vakif University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Emine Ergul Sari
- Health Science University İstanbul Bakırkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital TR, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Canan Caymaz
- Başakşehir Cam ve Sakura City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Murat Sutcu
- İstinye University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | | | - Zafer Bagcı
- University of Health Sciences Konya Health Application and Research Center, Konya, Turkey
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Belma Yasar
- Health Sciences University Sisli Hamidiye Etfal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Hatice Uygun
- Adıyaman Research and Training Hospital, Adiyaman, Turkey
| | | | - Ayse Buyukcam
- Ankara Gulhane Research and Training Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Eda Karadag Oncel
- Health Sciences University Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Gaziler Street Number: 468, 35020, Yenisehir Konak/Izmir, Turkey
| | | | | | - Ayse Berna Anil
- Health Sciences University Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Gaziler Street Number: 468, 35020, Yenisehir Konak/Izmir, Turkey
- Pediatric Intensive Care, Health Sciences University Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | | | - Selcuk Uzuner
- Bezmialem Vakif University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | | | - Sevgi Topal
- Erzurum Regional Training and Research Hospital, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Gazi Arslan
- Dokuz Eylül University Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Abdullah Yazar
- Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram Hospital, Konya, Turkey
| | - Arife Ozer
- Health Sciences University Van Training and Research Hospital, Van, Turkey
| | - Tanil Kendirli
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
- Pediatric Intensive Care, Ankara University Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | | | - Fatih Battal
- Canakkale On Sekiz Mart University Hospital, Canakkale, Turkey
| | | | | | | | - Doruk Gul
- İstinye University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | | | - Nilgun Kula
- Antalya Training and Research Hospital, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Elif Celik
- Aydin Adnan Menderes University Hospital, Aydin, Turkey
| | - Ercument Petmezci
- Health Sciences University Sisli Hamidiye Etfal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Ahu Kara Aksay
- Health Sciences University Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Gaziler Street Number: 468, 35020, Yenisehir Konak/Izmir, Turkey
| | - Capan Konca
- Adiyaman University Hospital, Adiyaman, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Sert
- Selcuk University Hospital, Konya, Turkey
| | - Derya Arslan
- University of Health Sciences Konya Health Application and Research Center, Konya, Turkey
| | - Helen Bornaun
- Kanuni Sultan Süleyman Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Onur Tekeli
- Antalya Training and Research Hospital, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Alkan Bal
- Celal Bayar University Hospital, Manisa, Turkey
| | | | - Selcan Demir
- Erzurum Regional Training and Research Hospital, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Fatih Sap
- Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram Hospital, Konya, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Bedir Akyol
- Health Science University İstanbul Bakırkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital TR, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | | | - Tayfun Ucar
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
- Pediatric Cardiology, Ankara University Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Senay Coban
- Erzurum Regional Training and Research Hospital, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Gul Arga
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | | | | | - Celal Varan
- Adiyaman University Hospital, Adiyaman, Turkey
| | | | - Selim Oncel
- Kocaeli University Hospital, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | | | - Nevin Hatipoglu
- Health Science University İstanbul Bakırkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital TR, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nazan Dalgic Karabulut
- Health Sciences University Sisli Hamidiye Etfal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Ayper Somer
- Istanbul University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | | | - Ergin Ciftci
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ates Kara
- Hacettepe University Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Liu X, Guo Y, Pan W, Xue Q, Fu J, Qu G, Zhang A. Exogenous Chemicals Impact Virus Receptor Gene Transcription: Insights from Deep Learning. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:18038-18047. [PMID: 37186679 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c09837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Despite the fact that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been disrupting human life and health worldwide since the outbreak in late 2019, the impact of exogenous substance exposure on the viral infection remains unclear. It is well-known that, during viral infection, organism receptors play a significant role in mediating the entry of viruses to enter host cells. A major receptor of SARS-CoV-2 is the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). This study proposes a deep learning model based on the graph convolutional network (GCN) that enables, for the first time, the prediction of exogenous substances that affect the transcriptional expression of the ACE2 gene. It outperforms other machine learning models, achieving an area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.712 and 0.703 on the validation and internal test set, respectively. In addition, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) experiments provided additional supporting evidence for indoor air pollutants identified by the GCN model. More broadly, the proposed methodology can be applied to predict the effect of environmental chemicals on the gene transcription of other virus receptors as well. In contrast to typical deep learning models that are of black box nature, we further highlight the interpretability of the proposed GCN model and how it facilitates deeper understanding of gene change at the structural level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
| | - Yunhe Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
| | - Wenxiao Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
| | - Qiao Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
| | - Jianjie Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310012, P. R. China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
- Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, P.R. China
| | - Guangbo Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310012, P. R. China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
| | - Aiqian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310012, P. R. China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
- Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, P.R. China
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11
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Wang B, Chen Z, Huang Y, Ding J, Lin Y, Wang M, Li X. Mitochondrial mass of circulating NK cells as a novel biomarker in severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 124:110839. [PMID: 37639852 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110839] [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: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe SARS-CoV-2 infection results in lymphopenia and impaired function of T, B, and NK (TBNK-dominant) lymphocytes. Mitochondria are essential targets of SARS-CoV-2 and the efficacy of lymphocyte mitochondrial function for immunosurveillance in COVID-19 patients has not been evaluated. METHODS Multi-parametric flow cytometry was used to characterize mitochondrial function, including mitochondrial mass (MM) and low mitochondrial membrane potential (MMPlow), in TBNK-dominant lymphocytes from severe (n = 93) and moderate (n = 77) hospitalized COVID-19 patients. We compared the role of novel lymphocyte mitochondrial indicators and routine infection biomarkers as early predictors of severity and death in COVID-19 patients. We then developed a mortality decision tree prediction model based on immunosurveillance indicators through machine learning. RESULTS At admission, the MM of circulating NK cells (NK-MM) was the best discriminator of severe/moderate disease (AUC = 0.8067) compared with the routine infection biomarkers. The NK cell count and NK-MM displayed superior diagnostic effects to distinguish patients with non-fatal or fatal outcomes. Interestingly, NK-MM was significantly polarized in non-survivors, with some patients showing a decrease and others showing an abnormal increase. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that NK-MM had the optimal predictive efficacy (hazard ratio = 11.66). The decision tree model has the highest proportion of importance for NK-MM, which is superior to the single diagnostic effect of the above indicators (AUC = 0.8900). CONCLUSION NK-MM was not only associated with disease severity, its abnormal increases or decreases also predicted mortality risk. The resulting decision tree prediction model is the first to focus on immune monitoring indicators to provide decision-making clues for COVID-19 clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingqi Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Zhenni Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Yiran Huang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Jiayi Ding
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Yingrui Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Xianping Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.
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12
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Asghari F, Asghary A, Majidi Zolbanin N, Faraji F, Jafari R. Immunosenescence and Inflammaging in COVID-19. Viral Immunol 2023; 36:579-592. [PMID: 37797216 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2023.0045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite knowledge gaps in understanding the full spectrum of the hyperinflammatory phase caused by SARS-CoV-2, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), COVID-19 is still the leading cause of death worldwide. Susceptible people to severe COVID-19 are those with underlying medical conditions or those with dysregulated and senescence-associated immune responses. As the immune system undergoes aging in the elderly, such drastic changes predispose them to various diseases and affect their responsiveness to infections, as seen in COVID-19. At-risk groups experience poor prognosis in terms of disease recovery. Changes in the quantity and quality of immune cell function have been described in numerous literature sites. Impaired immune cell function along with age-related metabolic changes can lead to features such as hyperinflammatory response, immunosenescence, and inflammaging in COVID-19. Inflammaging is related to the increased activity of the most inflammatory factors and is the main cause of age-related diseases and tissue failure in the elderly. Since hyperinflammation is a common feature of most severe cases of COVID-19, this pathway, which is not fully understood, leads to immunosenescence and inflammaging in some individuals, especially in the elderly and those with comorbidities. In this review, we shed some light on the age-related abnormalities of innate and adaptive immune cells and how hyperinflammatory immune responses contribute to the inflammaging process, leading to clinical deterioration. Further, we provide insights into immunomodulation-based therapeutic approaches, which are potentially important considerations in vaccine design for elderly populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Asghari
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Asghary
- Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Naime Majidi Zolbanin
- Experimental and Applied Pharmaceutical Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Faraji
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Jafari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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13
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Fayek M, Ebrahim HY, Abdel-Aziz MS, Taha H, Moharram FA. Bioactive metabolites identified from Aspergillus terreus derived from soil. AMB Express 2023; 13:107. [PMID: 37789186 PMCID: PMC10547674 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-023-01612-0] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus terreus has been reported to produce many bioactive metabolites that possess potential activities including anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, and antimicrobial activities. In the present study, we report the isolation and identification of A. terreus from a collected soil sample. The metabolites existing in the microbial ethyl acetate extract were tentatively identified by HPLC/MS and chemically categorized into alkaloids, terpenoids, polyketides, γ-butyrolactones, quinones, and peptides. In addition, a new triglyceride (1) and a diketopiperazine derivative namely asterrine (4), together with two known butyrolactone (2-3) were purified from the extract. The chemical skeleton of the purified compounds was established by comprehensive analysis of their ESI/MS, 1 and 2D-NMR data. The extract and compounds 3,4 exhibited a strong inhibitory activity for the binding of ACE2 to SARS-CoV-2 spike-protein receptor with IC50 7.4, 9.5, and 8.5 µg/mL, respectively. In addition, the extract, 1 and 2 displayed a potent anti-inflammatory effect with IC50 51.31 and 37.25 pg/mL (Il-6) and 87.97, 68.22 pg/mL (TNF-α), respectively, in comparison to LPS control. In addition, the extract and compound 4 displayed an antimicrobial effect towards S. aureus by MIC 62.5 and 125 μg/mL, while the extract exhibited a potent effect against C. albicans (MIC of 125 μg/mL). Collectively, our data introduce novel bioactivities for the secondary metabolites produced by the terrestrial fungus Aspergillus terreus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menna Fayek
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Cairo, 11795, Egypt
| | - Hassan Y Ebrahim
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Cairo, 11795, Egypt
| | - Mohamed S Abdel-Aziz
- Department of Microbial Chemistry Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Division, National Research Centre, Giza, 12622, Egypt
| | - Heba Taha
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Cairo, 11795, Egypt
| | - Fatma A Moharram
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Cairo, 11795, Egypt.
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14
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Beam TA, Klepser DG, Klepser ME, Bright DR, Klepser N, Schuring H, Wheeler S, Langerveld A. COVID-19 host genetic risk study conducted at community pharmacies: Implications for public health, research and pharmacists' scope of practice. Res Social Adm Pharm 2023; 19:1360-1364. [PMID: 37567834 PMCID: PMC10264161 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2023.06.003] [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: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Community pharmacists serve a large, diverse population of patients, resulting in the potential to utilize community pharmacies as recruitment sites for clinical research. Beyond traditional roles as one of the most accessible health care professionals in the US healthcare system, pharmacists have played a major role in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, administering hundreds of thousands of vaccines and tests. However, less emphasis is placed on the ability to leverage community pharmacies as research-focused partners for clinical studies. In this study, we demonstrate the feasibility and workflow of recruiting study participants from community pharmacies and confirm genetic markers of COVID-19 susceptibility. Specific genetic markers include those associated with COVID-19 infection risk (ACE2, TMEM27, and RAVER1), difficulty breathing (NOTCH4), and hospitalization (OAS3). In addition, collaboration with a clinical laboratory allowed for a more seamless consenting process without substantial training needs or workflow disruption at the community pharmacy site. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that the expansion of pharmacists' scope of practice is a key factor in managing the population health crisis; this study demonstrates that pharmacies can also advance clinical research studies by serving as sites for patient recruitment from a large, diverse, and ambulatory study population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa A Beam
- Manchester University College of Pharmacy, Natural and Health Sciences 10627 Diebold Road, Fort Wayne, IN, 46845, USA.
| | - Donald G Klepser
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, 986120, Omaha, NE, 68198-6120, USA.
| | - Michael E Klepser
- Ferris State University College of Pharmacy, 1000 Oakland Drive, Kalamazoo, MI, 49008, USA.
| | - David R Bright
- Ferris State University College of Pharmacy, 220 Ferris Dr, Big Rapids, MI, 49307, USA.
| | - Nicklas Klepser
- Genemarkers, 126 East South Street, Kalamazoo, MI, 49007, USA; 15811 Louis Dr, Omaha, NE, 68118, USA.
| | - Hannah Schuring
- Genemarkers, 126 East South Street, Kalamazoo, MI, 49007, USA.
| | | | - Anna Langerveld
- Genemarkers, 126 East South Street, Kalamazoo, MI, 49007, USA.
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15
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Suzuki E, Kuronuma K, Murai R, Fujiya Y, Saito A, Chiba H, Takahashi S. Serum Testosterone Is Associated With the Severity of COVID-19. In Vivo 2023; 37:2314-2319. [PMID: 37652515 PMCID: PMC10500529 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.13334] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is more likely to be severe in men than in women. Its association with sex hormones as an aggravating factor for male patients has been attracting attention. This study aimed to investigate whether serum testosterone is associated with the aggravation of COVID-19. PATIENTS AND METHODS Serum testosterone concentrations in 116 male patients with COVID-19 and residual serum were measured and examined upon their admission to Sapporo Medical University Hospital between February 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021. RESULTS Blood samples collected from these patients with COVID-19 were analyzed. The serum testosterone levels were 2.19±1.35, 1.29±0.88, and 0.75±0.58 ng/ml in mild, moderate, and severe groups, respectively. Patients with severe COVID-19 on admission had lower testosterone levels (p<0.001). At a cutoff level of 1.31 ng/ml, the area under the curve for the comparison of severe with non-severe cases was 0.825. Furthermore, serum testosterone levels negatively correlated with C-reactive protein and serum amyloid A levels but positively correlated with calcium, zinc, C3, and C4. CONCLUSION In male patients with COVID-19, low serum testosterone levels correlated with disease severity, accompanied by a strong inflammatory reaction and proportion of complement consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ema Suzuki
- Division of Laboratory Medicine, Sapporo Medical University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Koji Kuronuma
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan;
| | - Ryosei Murai
- Division of Laboratory Medicine, Sapporo Medical University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Fujiya
- Department of Infection Control and Laboratory Medicine, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Saito
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Chiba
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Takahashi
- Division of Laboratory Medicine, Sapporo Medical University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Infection Control and Laboratory Medicine, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
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16
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Zhang L, Sun X, Feng Y, Ma F. Association of the androgens with COVID-19 prognostic outcomes: a systematic review. Arch Public Health 2023; 81:152. [PMID: 37605265 PMCID: PMC10440898 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-023-01168-2] [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: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The coronavirus disease 2019 was a global public health emergency in later years (from 2020 to early 2022), and androgens have been associated with infection and prognostic outcomes. However, the relationship between low serum testosterone levels and prognostic outcomes remains inconclusive. This systematic review aimed to investigate the relationship between serum testosterone levels and prognostic outcomes in patients with COVID-19. METHODS We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science electronic databases for all literature from January 1, 2020, to September 1, 2022. In addition, we also searched literature manually. The search terms were COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), androgens, and testosterone. There were no language restrictions for retrieval. RESULTS Our search identified 2285 articles, resulting in a full-text analysis of 16 studies, including 12 cohort studies and four case-control studies. Low serum testosterone levels were observed to be statistically associated with a higher probability of intensive care unit (ICU) admission in seven studies. In eight studies, higher hospital mortality was associated with lower serum testosterone levels. Six studies found that low serum testosterone levels were associated with a statistically significant difference in lung function impairment. Only four studies found that among living patients, those with lower serum testosterone levels had longer hospital stays. All but one of the included studies had a low risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS Based on available data, low serum testosterone levels are associated with higher rates of ICU admission, hospital mortality, risk of lung failure, inflammatory markers, and longer hospital stays in patients with COVID-19 compared with those having normal serum testosterone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linyu Zhang
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Xinrui Sun
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Ying Feng
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China.
| | - Fang Ma
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China.
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17
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Hejenkowska ED, Mitash N, Donovan JE, Chandra A, Bertrand C, De Santi C, Greene CM, Mu F, Swiatecka-Urban A. TGF-β1 Inhibition of ACE2 Mediated by miRNA Uncovers Novel Mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 Pathogenesis. J Innate Immun 2023; 15:629-646. [PMID: 37579743 PMCID: PMC10601633 DOI: 10.1159/000533606] [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: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), responsible for COVID-19, utilizes receptor binding domain (RBD) of spike glycoprotein to interact with angiotensin (Ang)-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Altering ACE2 levels may affect entry of SARS-CoV-2 and recovery from COVID-19. Decreased cell surface density of ACE2 leads to increased local levels of Ang II and may contribute to mortality resulting from acute lung injury and fibrosis during COVID-19. Studies published early during the COVID-19 pandemic reported that people with cystic fibrosis (PwCF) had milder symptoms, compared to people without CF. This finding was attributed to elevated ACE2 levels and/or treatment with the high efficiency CFTR modulators. Subsequent studies did not confirm these findings reporting variable effects of CFTR gene mutations on ACE2 levels. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling is essential during SARS-CoV-2 infection and dominates the chronic immune response in severe COVID-19, leading to pulmonary fibrosis. TGF-β1 is a gene modifier associated with more severe lung disease in PwCF but its effects on the COVID-19 course in PwCF is unknown. To understand whether TGF-β1 affects ACE2 levels in the airway, we examined miRNAs and their gene targets affecting SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis in response to TGF-β1. Small RNAseq and micro(mi)RNA profiling identified pathways uniquely affected by TGF-β1, including those associated with SARS-CoV-2 invasion, replication, and the host immune responses. TGF-β1 inhibited ACE2 expression by miR-136-3p and miR-369-5p mediated mechanism in CF and non-CF bronchial epithelial cells. ACE2 levels were higher in two bronchial epithelial cell models expressing the most common CF-causing mutation in CFTR gene F508del, compared to controls without the mutation. After TGF-β1 treatment, ACE2 protein levels were still higher in CF, compared to non-CF cells. TGF-β1 prevented the modulator-mediated rescue of F508del-CFTR function while the modulators did not prevent the TGF-β1 inhibition of ACE2 levels. Finally, TGF-β1 reduced the interaction between ACE2 and the recombinant spike RBD by lowering ACE2 levels and its binding to RBD. Our data demonstrate novel mechanism whereby TGF-β1 inhibition of ACE2 in CF and non-CF bronchial epithelial cells may modulate SARS-CoV-2 pathogenicity and COVID-19 severity. By reducing ACE2 levels, TGF-β1 may decrease entry of SARS-CoV-2 into the host cells while hindering the recovery from COVID-19 due to loss of the anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects of ACE2. The above outcomes may be modulated by other, miRNA-mediated effects exerted by TGF-β1 on the host immune responses, leading to a complex and yet incompletely understood circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nilay Mitash
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joshua E. Donovan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Anvita Chandra
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Carol Bertrand
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Chiara De Santi
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Catherine M. Greene
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Fangping Mu
- Center for Research Computing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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18
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Ahmadi S, Khaledi S. Brain Renin-Angiotensin System: From Physiology to Pathology in Neuronal Complications Induced by SARS-CoV-2. Anal Cell Pathol (Amst) 2023; 2023:8883492. [PMID: 37575318 PMCID: PMC10421715 DOI: 10.1155/2023/8883492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a key enzyme in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), is expressed in various tissues and organs, including the central nervous system (CNS). The spike protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), binds to ACE2, which raises concerns about the potential for viral infection in the CNS. There are numerous reports suggesting a link between SARS-CoV-2 infection and neurological manifestations. This study aimed to present an updated review of the role of brain RAS components, especially ACE2, in neurological complications induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Several routes of SARS-CoV-2 entry into the brain have been proposed. Because an anosmia condition appeared broadly in COVID-19 patients, the olfactory nerve route was suggested as an early pathway for SARS-CoV-2 entry into the brain. In addition, a hematogenous route via disintegrations in the blood-brain barrier following an increase in systemic cytokine and chemokine levels and retrograde axonal transport, especially via the vagus nerve innervating lungs, have been described. Common nonspecific neurological symptoms in COVID-19 patients are myalgia, headache, anosmia, and dysgeusia. However, more severe outcomes include cerebrovascular diseases, cognitive impairment, anxiety, encephalopathy, and stroke. Alterations in brain RAS components such as angiotensin II (Ang II) and ACE2 mediate neurological manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection, at least in part. Downregulation of ACE2 due to SARS-CoV-2 infection, followed by an increase in Ang II levels, leads to hyperinflammation and oxidative stress, which in turn accelerates neurodegeneration in the brain. Furthermore, ACE2 downregulation in the hypothalamus induces stress and anxiety responses by increasing corticotropin-releasing hormone. SARS-CoV-2 infection may also dysregulate the CNS neurotransmission, leading to neurological complications observed in severe cases of COVID-19. It can be concluded that the neurological manifestations of COVID-19 may be partially associated with changes in brain RAS components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamseddin Ahmadi
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Shiler Khaledi
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
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19
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Shahraki K, Najafi A, Ashoori N, Razzaghpour N, Shahraki K. Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (AAION) Associated with COVID-19 Infection: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. Case Rep Ophthalmol Med 2023; 2023:9009925. [PMID: 37492646 PMCID: PMC10365912 DOI: 10.1155/2023/9009925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION) is the most frequent cause of acute optic nerve damage in the elderly, usually causing acute, unilateral, and painless permanent visual loss. Arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AAION) is a result of endothelial cell inflammation and the subsequent thrombosis and occlusion in the blood-supplying arteries of the optic nerve head. AAION accounts only for 5-10% of all AION cases that are associated with vasculitis which usually takes place in the course of a giant cell arteritis (GCA). In this paper, we report a case of AAION following a COVID-19 respiratory infection. Although it is uncertain whether SARS-CoV-2 infection triggered the AAION or was coincidental, the possible association of the events is concerning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kourosh Shahraki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Alzahra Eye Hospital, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Amin Najafi
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine and Allied Medical Sciences, Imam Reza Hospital, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Negin Ashoori
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine and Allied Medical Sciences, Imam Reza Hospital, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Nayyereh Razzaghpour
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine and Allied Medical Sciences, Imam Reza Hospital, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Kianoush Shahraki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Alzahra Eye Hospital, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
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Kaya Ö, Keskinkaya Z, Işık Mermutlu S, Oğuz Kılıç S, Öztürk S. Long-Term Omalizumab Therapy in Patients with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria: Does it Increase the Risk of COVID-19? Dermatol Pract Concept 2023; 13:e2023145. [PMID: 37557113 PMCID: PMC10412006 DOI: 10.5826/dpc.1303a145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Based on the existing literature, omalizumab (OMZ) is considered a safe treatment modality in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) during the coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) era. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of OMZ on CSU patients regarding COVID-19 infection. METHODS In this retrospective study, files of CSU patients using OMZ during the COVID-19 pandemic were reviewed in terms of demographic features, medical history including COVID-19 vaccination status, clinical characteristics, pretreatment laboratory parameters, duration, and dosing regimen of OMZ treatment. Patients with a history of COVID-19 infection while on OMZ therapy and patients without COVID-19 history were compared with respect to these parameters. The urticaria activations following COVID-19 infection or vaccination were also recorded. RESULTS Sixty-eight patients with CSU (female:male ratio = 1.8:1; mean age = 47.2 ± 15.1 years) continued to receive OMZ treatment. The median duration of OMZ treatment was 12 months (range: 6-60). Twelve patients (17.6%) were diagnosed with COVID-19 showing no exacerbation in urticaria. The duration of OMZ treatment was significantly higher in the group with COVID-19 infection history compared to patients with no history of COVID-19 (P = 0.01). Among 51 patients (75%) vaccinated against COVID-19, urticaria activation occurred in 4 patients without any recurrence following booster vaccinations. CONCLUSIONS Considering the likelihood of increased COVID-19 infection risk in the setting of long-term OMZ in CSU patients, the duration of OMZ therapy might be kept at a minimum, or a temporary interruption of the treatment period might be preferred, particularly in high-risk patients regarding COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özge Kaya
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University Faculty of Medicine, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Keskinkaya
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University Faculty of Medicine, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Selda Işık Mermutlu
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University Faculty of Medicine, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Sevilay Oğuz Kılıç
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University Faculty of Medicine, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Sevgi Öztürk
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University Faculty of Medicine, Çanakkale, Turkey
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21
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Chen C, Wang J, Liu YM, Hu J. Single-cell analysis of adult human heart across healthy and cardiovascular disease patients reveals the cellular landscape underlying SARS-CoV-2 invasion of myocardial tissue through ACE2. J Transl Med 2023; 21:358. [PMID: 37259108 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04224-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The distribution of ACE2 and accessory proteases (ANAD17 and CTSL) in cardiovascular tissue and the host cell receptor binding of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are crucial to understanding the virus's cell invasion, which may play a significant role in determining the viral tropism and its clinical manifestations. METHODS We conducted a comprehensive analysis of the cell type-specific expression of ACE2, ADAM17, and CTSL in myocardial tissue from 10 patients using RNA sequencing. Our study included a meta-analysis of 2 heart single-cell RNA-sequencing studies with a total of 90,024 cells from 250 heart samples of 10 individuals. We used co-expression analysis to locate specific cell types that SARS-CoV-2 may invade. RESULTS Our results revealed cell-type specific associations between male gender and the expression levels of ACE2, ADAM17, and CTSL, including pericytes and fibroblasts. AGT, CALM3, PCSK5, NRP1, and LMAN were identified as potential accessory proteases that might facilitate viral invasion. Enrichment analysis highlighted the extracellular matrix interaction pathway, adherent plaque pathway, vascular smooth muscle contraction inflammatory response, and oxidative stress as potential immune pathways involved in viral infection, providing potential molecular targets for therapeutic intervention. We also found specific high expression of IFITM3 and AGT in pericytes and differences in the IFN-II signaling pathway and PAR signaling pathway in fibroblasts from different cardiovascular comorbidities. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicated possible high-risk groups for COVID-19 and provided emerging avenues for future investigations of its pathogenesis. TRIAL REGISTRATION (Not applicable).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Chen
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China.
| | - Yong-Mei Liu
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Jun Hu
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Beijing, 100053, China
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22
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Awatade NT, Wark PAB, Chan ASL, Mamun SMAA, Mohd Esa NY, Matsunaga K, Rhee CK, Hansbro PM, Sohal SS. The Complex Association between COPD and COVID-19. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12113791. [PMID: 37297985 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12113791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. There is mounting evidence suggesting that COPD patients are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes; however, it remains unclear whether they are more susceptible to acquiring SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this comprehensive review, we aim to provide an up-to-date perspective of the intricate relationship between COPD and COVID-19. We conducted a thorough review of the literature to examine the evidence regarding the susceptibility of COPD patients to COVID-19 infection and the severity of their disease outcomes. While most studies have found that pre-existing COPD is associated with worse COVID-19 outcomes, some have yielded conflicting results. We also discuss confounding factors such as cigarette smoking, inhaled corticosteroids, and socioeconomic and genetic factors that may influence this association. Furthermore, we review acute COVID-19 management, treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery in COPD patients and how public health measures impact their care. In conclusion, while the association between COPD and COVID-19 is complex and requires further investigation, this review highlights the need for careful management of COPD patients during the pandemic to minimize the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikhil T Awatade
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and University of Newcastle, Newcastle 2305, Australia
| | - Peter A B Wark
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and University of Newcastle, Newcastle 2305, Australia
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle 2305, Australia
| | - Andrew S L Chan
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Royal North Shore Hospital, St. Leonards 2065, Australia
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia
| | - S M Abdullah Al Mamun
- Department of Respiratory Medicine & Sleep Medicine, Evercare Hospitals Dhaka, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh
| | | | - Kazuto Matsunaga
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Infectious Disease Graduate School of Medicine, Yamaguchi University, 1-1-1 Minami-kogushi, Ube 755-8505, Japan
| | - Chin Kook Rhee
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Philip M Hansbro
- Immune Health Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute and University of Newcastle, Newcastle 2305, Australia
- Centre for Inflammation, Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Sydney 2050, Australia
| | - Sukhwinder Singh Sohal
- Respiratory Translational Research Group, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston 7248, Australia
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23
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Kuo CW, Su PL, Huang TH, Lin CC, Chen CW, Tsai JS, Liao XM, Chan TY, Shieh CC. Cigarette smoke increases susceptibility of alveolar macrophages to SARS-CoV-2 infection through inducing reactive oxygen species-upregulated angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 expression. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7894. [PMID: 37193781 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34785-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Alveolar macrophages (AMs) are the drivers of pulmonary cytokine storm in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. This study aimed to investigate clinical-regulatory factors for the entrance protein of SARS-CoV-2, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in AMs. Human AMs were collected from 56 patients using bronchoalveolar lavage. ACE2 expression in AMs was positively correlated with smoking pack-year (Spearman's r = 0.347, P = 0.038). In multivariate analysis, current smoking was associated with increased ACE2 in AMs (β-coefficient: 0.791, 95% CI 0.019-1.562, P = 0.045). In vitro study, ex-vivo human AMs with higher ACE2 were more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus (CoV-2 PsV). Treating human AMs using cigarette smoking extract (CSE) increases the ACE2 and susceptibility to CoV-2 PsV. CSE did not significantly increase the ACE2 in AMs of reactive oxygen species (ROS) deficient Cybb-/- mice; however, exogenous ROS increased the ACE2 in Cybb-/- AMs. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) decreases ACE2 by suppressing intracellular ROS in human AMs. In conclusion, cigarette smoking increases the susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 by increasing ROS-induced ACE2 expression of AMs. Further investigation into the preventive effect of NAC on the pulmonary complications of COVID-19 is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Wei Kuo
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan, 70403, Taiwan
- Division of Chest Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Po-Lan Su
- Division of Chest Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Tang-Hsiu Huang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan, 70403, Taiwan
- Division of Chest Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Chung Lin
- Division of Chest Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chian-Wei Chen
- Division of Chest Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jeng-Shiuan Tsai
- Division of Chest Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Xin-Min Liao
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan, 70403, Taiwan
- Division of Chest Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Yi Chan
- Division of Chest Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chang Shieh
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan, 70403, Taiwan.
- Department of Pediatrics, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
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24
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Al-Kuraishy HM, Al-Gareeb AI, Alarfaj SJ, Al-Akeel RK, Faidah H, El-Bouseary MM, Sabatier JM, De Waard M, El-Masry TA, Batiha GES. Long COVID and risk of erectile dysfunction in recovered patients from mild to moderate COVID-19. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5977. [PMID: 37045862 PMCID: PMC10092929 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32211-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were shown to have reduced serum testosterone levels compared to healthy individuals. Low testosterone levels are linked with the development of erectile dysfunction (ED). In this case-controlled study, 20 healthy controls and 39 patients with ED 3 months after recovering from mild-to-moderate COVID-19 pneumonia were studied. The patients ranged in age from 31 to 47 years. To identify early and late COVID-19 infections, real-time polymerase-chain reaction (RT-PCR) and COVID-19 antibody testing were done. The levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicular stimulating hormone (FSH), total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), free androgenic index (FAI), and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) were measured. The sexual health inventory for patients (SHIM) score was used to measure the erectile function of the patients and controls. When compared to the controls, the TT serum level in long COVID-19 (LC) patients with ED was low (p = 0.01). In contrast to controls, FT and FAI were both lower in LC patients with ED. (p = 0.001). FSH serum levels did not significantly differ (p = 0.07), but in ED patients, LH serum levels were elevated. SHIM scores were associated with low TT (p = 0.30), FT (p = 0.09), and high LH (p = 0.76) in LC patients with ED. Male patients with decreased serum levels of LH and testosterone may have hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis dysfunction, which could lead to the development of LC-induced ED. Therefore, an in-depth research is necessary to confirm the causal link between COVID-19 and ED in LC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder M Al-Kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Al-Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ali I Al-Gareeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Al-Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Sumaiah J Alarfaj
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O.Box 84428, Riyadh, 11671, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Rasha Khalifah Al-Akeel
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Entomology and Parasitology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hani Faidah
- Microbiolgy Department Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maisra M El-Bouseary
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Jean-Marc Sabatier
- CNRS UMR 7051, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, Institut de Neurophysiopathologie (INP), Aix-Marseille Université, 27 Bd Jean Moulin, 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Michel De Waard
- Smartox Biotechnology, 6 Rue Des Platanes, 38120, Saint-Egrève, France
- L'institut du Thorax, INSERM, CNRS, UNIV NANTES, 44007, Nantes, France
- LabEx «Ion Channels, Science & Therapeutics», Université de Nice Sophia-Antipolis, 06560, Valbonne, France
| | - Thanaa A El-Masry
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, 22511, AlBeheira, Egypt
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25
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Lott N, Gebhard CE, Bengs S, Haider A, Kuster GM, Regitz-Zagrosek V, Gebhard C. Sex hormones in SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility: key players or confounders? Nat Rev Endocrinol 2023; 19:217-231. [PMID: 36494595 PMCID: PMC9734735 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-022-00780-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has a clear sex disparity in clinical outcomes. Hence, the interaction between sex hormones, virus entry receptors and immune responses has attracted major interest as a target for the prevention and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infections. This Review summarizes the current understanding of the roles of androgens, oestrogens and progesterone in the regulation of virus entry receptors and disease progression of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as well as their therapeutic value. Although many experimental and clinical studies have analysed potential mechanisms by which female sex hormones might provide protection against SARS-CoV-2 infectivity, there is currently no clear evidence for a sex-specific expression of virus entry receptors. In addition, reports describing an influence of oestrogen, progesterone and androgens on the course of COVID-19 vary widely. Current data also do not support the administration of oestradiol in COVID-19. The conflicting evidence and lack of consensus results from a paucity of mechanistic studies and clinical trials reporting sex-disaggregated data. Further, the influence of variables beyond biological factors (sex), such as sociocultural factors (gender), on COVID-19 manifestations has not been investigated. Future research will have to fill this knowledge gap as the influence of sex and gender on COVID-19 will be essential to understanding and managing the long-term consequences of this pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Lott
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | | | - Susan Bengs
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Ahmed Haider
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gabriela M Kuster
- Department of Cardiology and Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Vera Regitz-Zagrosek
- Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Catherine Gebhard
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland.
- Department of Cardiology, Inselspital Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland.
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26
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Yun YF, Feng ZY, Zhang JJ. COVID-19 and liver dysfunction in children: Current views and new hypotheses. World J Hepatol 2023; 15:353-363. [PMID: 37034238 PMCID: PMC10075013 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i3.353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) poses an extremely serious global impact on public healthcare for individuals of all ages, including children. Increasing evidence has shown that liver abnormalities are commonly found in children with COVID-19, and age-related features in innate and adaptive response have been demonstrated. However, there are few reports and studies on COVID-19 related liver injury in children, and the data are scattered. So that many contradictions have arose. This situation is not only due to the serious ethical issues in studying pediatric patients with COVID-19, but also because of the short duration and wide coverage of the COVID-19 epidemic, the severity and complexity of clinical cases varied, as did the inclusion criteria for case reporting and patient outcomes. Therefore, we totaled the incidences, characteristics and pathomechanism of liver injury in children since the COVID-19 outbreak. The etiology of COVID-19-related liver injury is divided into three categories: (1) The direct mechanism involves severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 in the liver or bile duct to exert direct toxicity; (2) the indirect mechanisms include an inflammatory immune response and hypoxia; and (3) COVID-19-related treatments, such as mechanical ventilation and antiviral drugs, may cause liver injury. In summary, this minireview provides fundamental insights into COVID-19 and liver dysfunction in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Fang Yun
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhi-Yuan Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jing-Jing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu Province, China
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27
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Bombaci B, Passanisi S, Sorrenti L, Salzano G, Lombardo F. Examining the associations between COVID-19 infection and pediatric type 1 diabetes. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2023; 19:489-497. [PMID: 36888906 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2023.2189587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic represents an unprecedented challenge for public health worldwide, not only for the very high number of cases and deaths but also due to a wide variety of indirect consequences. Among these, the possible relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and type 1 diabetes (T1D) in pediatric age has aroused notable interest in the scientific community. AREAS COVERED This perspective article aims to focus on the epidemiological trend of T1D during the pandemic, the diabetogenic role of SARS-CoV-2, and the influence of preexisting T1D on COVID-19 outcomes. EXPERT OPINION The incidence of T1D has considerably changed during the COVID-19 pandemic, but any direct role of SARS-CoV-2 is uncertain. It is more likely that SARS-CoV-2 infection acts as an accelerator of pancreatic β-cell immunological destruction, which is activated by known viral triggers whose spread has been abnormal during these pandemic years. Another interesting aspect to consider is the role of immunization as a potential protective factor both for T1D development and the risk of severe outcomes in already diagnosed patients. Future studies are still required to address unmet needs, including the early use of antiviral drugs to reduce the risk of metabolic decompensation in children with T1D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Bombaci
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Stefano Passanisi
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Lacrima Sorrenti
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Salzano
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Fortunato Lombardo
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Iglesias J, Vassallo A, Ilagan J, Ang SP, Udongwo N, Mararenko A, Alshami A, Patel D, Elbaga Y, Levine JS. Acute Kidney Injury Associated with Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Risk Factors for Morbidity and Mortality and a Potential Benefit of Combined Therapy with Tocilizumab and Corticosteroids. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030845. [PMID: 36979824 PMCID: PMC10045336 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication in patients with severe COVID-19. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 249 patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) during the first wave of the pandemic to determine risk factors for AKI. Demographics, comorbidities, and clinical and outcome variables were obtained from electronic medical records. Results: Univariate analysis revealed older age, higher admission serum creatinine, elevated Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, elevated admission D-Dimer, elevated CRP on day 2, mechanical ventilation, vasopressor requirement, and azithromycin usage as significant risk factors for AKI. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that higher admission creatinine (p = 0.0001, OR = 2.41, 95% CI = 1.56–3.70), vasopressor requirement (p = 0.0001, OR = 3.20, 95% CI = 1.69–5.98), elevated admission D-Dimer (p = 0.008, OR = 1.0001, 95% CI = 1.000–1.001), and elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) on day 2 (p = 0.033, OR = 1.0001, 95% CI = 1.004–1.009) were independent risk factors. Conversely, the combined use of Tocilizumab and corticosteroids was independently associated with reduced AKI risk (p = 0.0009, OR = 0.437, 95% CI = 0.23–0.81). Conclusion: This study confirms the high rate of AKI and associated mortality among COVID-19 patients admitted to ICUs and suggests a role for inflammation and/or coagulopathy in AKI development. One should consider the possibility that early administration of anti-inflammatory agents, as is now routinely conducted in the management of COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome, may improve clinical outcomes in patients with AKI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Iglesias
- Department of Medicine, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, NJ 07753, USA
- Department of Nephrology, Community Medical Center, RWJBarnabas Health, Toms River, NJ 08757, USA
- Department of Medicine, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Andrew Vassallo
- Department of Pharmacy, Community Medical Center, RWJBarnabas Health, Toms River, NJ 08757, USA
| | - Justin Ilagan
- Department of Medicine, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, NJ 07753, USA
| | - Song Peng Ang
- Department of Medicine, Community Medical Center, RWJBarnabas Health, Toms River, NJ 08757, USA
| | - Ndausung Udongwo
- Department of Medicine, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, NJ 07753, USA
| | - Anton Mararenko
- Department of Medicine, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, NJ 07753, USA
| | - Abbas Alshami
- Department of Medicine, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, NJ 07753, USA
| | - Dylon Patel
- Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
| | - Yasmine Elbaga
- Department of Pharmacy, Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus, RWJBarnabas Health, 600 River Ave., Lakewood, NJ 08701, USA
| | - Jerrold S. Levine
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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Importance of ACE2 for SARS-CoV-2 Infection of Kidney Cells. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13030472. [PMID: 36979408 PMCID: PMC10046276 DOI: 10.3390/biom13030472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In late 2019, the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) as the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emerged in China and spread rapidly around the world, causing an ongoing pandemic of global concern. COVID-19 proceeds with moderate symptoms in most patients, whereas others experience serious respiratory illness that requires intensive care treatment and may end in death. The severity of COVID-19 is linked to several risk factors including male sex, comorbidities, and advanced age. Apart from respiratory complications, further impairments by COVID-19 affecting other tissues of the human body are observed. In this respect, the human kidney is one of the most frequently affected extrapulmonary organs and acute kidney injury (AKI) is known as a direct or indirect complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The aim of this work was to investigate the importance of the protein angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) for a possible cell entry of SARS-CoV-2 into human kidney cells. First, the expression of the cellular receptor ACE2 was demonstrated to be decisive for viral SARS-CoV-2 cell entry in human AB8 podocytes, whereas the presence of the transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) was dispensable. Moreover, the ACE2 protein amount was well detectable by mass spectrometry analysis in human kidneys, while TMPRSS2 could be detected only in a few samples. Additionally, a negative correlation of the ACE2 protein abundance to male sex and elderly aged females in human kidney tissues was demonstrated in this work. Last, the possibility of a direct infection of kidney tubular renal structures by SARS-CoV-2 was demonstrated.
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Ahmad A, Makhmutova Z, Cao W, Majaz S, Amin A, Xie Y. Androgen receptor, a possible anti-infective therapy target and a potent immune respondent in SARS-CoV-2 spike binding: a computational approach. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2023; 21:317-327. [PMID: 36757420 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2023.2179035] [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: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although androgen in gender disparity of COVID-19 has been implied, no direct link has been provided. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Here, we applied AlphaFold multimer, network and single cells database analyses to highlight specificity of Androgen receptor (AR) against spike receptor binding protein (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2. RESULTS LXXL motifs in spike RBD are essential for AR binding. RBD LXXA mutation complex with the AR depicting slightly reduced binding energy, as LXXLL motif usually mediates nuclear receptor binding to coregulators. Moreover, AR preferred to bind a LYRL motif in specificity and interaction interface, and showed reduced affinity against Omicron compared to other variants (alpha, beta, gamma, and delta). Importantly, RBD LYRL motif is a conserved antigenic epitope (9 residues) for T-cell response. Network analysis of AR-related genes against COVID-19 database showed T-cell signaling regulation, and CD8+ T-cell spatial location in AR+ single cells, which is consistent with the AR binding motif LYRL in epitope function. CONCLUSIONS We provided the potent mechanisms of AR binding to RBD linking to immune response and vaccination shift. AR could be an anti-infective therapy target for anti-Omicron new lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashfaq Ahmad
- Department of Bioinformatics, Hazara University, Mansehra, Pakistan
| | - Zhandaulet Makhmutova
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Wenwen Cao
- Respiratory Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Tai'an, Shandong, China
| | - Sidra Majaz
- Department of Bioinformatics, Hazara University, Mansehra, Pakistan
| | - Amr Amin
- Biology Department, UAE University, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Yingqiu Xie
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan
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31
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Ata B, Vermeulen N, Mocanu E, Gianaroli L, Lundin K, Rautakallio-Hokkanen S, Tapanainen JS, Veiga A. SARS-CoV-2, fertility and assisted reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:177-196. [PMID: 36374645 PMCID: PMC9976972 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2020, SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 pandemic had a huge impact on the access to and provision of ART treatments. Gradually, knowledge of the virus and its transmission has become available, allowing ART activities to resume. Still, questions on the impact of the virus on human gametes and fertility remain. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This article summarizes published data, aiming to clarify the impact of SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 disease on human fertility and assisted reproduction, as well as the impact of vaccination, and from this, provide answers to questions that are relevant for people contemplating pregnancy and for health care professionals. SEARCH METHODS PUBMED/MEDLINE and the WHO COVID-19 database were searched from inception to 5 October 2022 with search terms focusing on 'SARS-CoV-2' and gametes, embryos, reproductive function, fertility and ART. Non-English studies and papers published prior to 2020 were excluded, as well as reviews and non-peer reviewed publications. Full papers were assessed for relevance and quality, where feasible. OUTCOMES From the 148 papers included, the following observations were made. The SARS-CoV-2-binding proteins, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and type II transmembrane serine protease (TMPRSS2), are expressed in the testis, but co-expression remains to be proven. There is some evidence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the ejaculate of COVID-19 patients with severe disease, but not in those with mild/moderate disease. SARS-CoV-2 infection can impair spermatogenesis, but this seems to resolve after one spermatogenic cycle. Testosterone levels seem to be lower during and after COVID-19, but long-term data are lacking; disease severity may be associated with testosterone levels. COVID-19 cannot be considered a sexually transmitted disease. There is no co-expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in the myometrium, uterus, ovaries or fallopian tubes. Oocytes seem to have the receptors and protease machinery to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, viral RNA in oocytes has not been detected so far. Women contemplating pregnancy following COVID-19 may benefit from screening for thyroid dysfunction. There is a possible (transient) impact of COVID-19 on menstrual patterns. Embryos, and particularly late blastocysts, seem to have the machinery to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Most studies have not reported a significant impact of COVID-19 on ovarian reserve, ovarian function or follicular fluid parameters. Previous asymptomatic or mild SARS-CoV-2 infection in females does not seem to negatively affect laboratory and clinical outcomes of ART. There are no data on the minimum required interval, if any, between COVID-19 recovery and ART. There is no evidence of a negative effect of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on semen parameters or spermatogenesis, ovarian function, ovarian reserve or folliculogenesis. A transient effect on the menstrual cycle has been documented. Despite concerns, cross reactivity between anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike protein antibodies and Syncytin-1, an essential protein in human implantation, is absent. There is no influence of mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccine on patients' performance during their immediate subsequent ART cycle. Pregnancy rates post-vaccination are similar to those in unvaccinated patients. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This review highlights existing knowledge on the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 on fertility and assisted reproduction, but also identifies gaps and offers suggestions for future research. The knowledge presented should help to provide evidence-based advice for practitioners and couples contemplating pregnancy alike, facilitating informed decision-making in an environment of significant emotional turmoil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baris Ata
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.,ART Fertility Clinics, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Edgar Mocanu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Rotunda Hospital and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Luca Gianaroli
- Società Italiana Studi di Medicina della Riproduzione, S.I.S.Me.R. Reproductive Medicine Institute, Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Kersti Lundin
- Reproductive Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Juha S Tapanainen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oulu University Hospital and Medical Research Centre PEDEGO Research Unit, Oulu, Finland
| | - Anna Veiga
- Barcelona Stem Cell Bank, IDIBELL Programme for Regenerative Medicine, Barcelona, Spain
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Exploring the Role of ACE2 as a Connecting Link between COVID-19 and Parkinson's Disease. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020536. [PMID: 36836893 PMCID: PMC9961012 DOI: 10.3390/life13020536] [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: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is frequently accompanied by neurological manifestations such as headache, delirium, and epileptic seizures, whereas ageusia and anosmia may appear before respiratory symptoms. Among the various neurological COVID-19-related comorbidities, Parkinson's disease (PD) has gained increasing attention. Some cases of PD disease have been linked to COVID-19, and both motor and non-motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease patients frequently worsen following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Although it is still unclear whether PD increases the susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection or whether COVID-19 increases the risk of or unmasks future cases of PD, emerging evidence sheds more light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the relationship between these two diseases. Among them, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a significant component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), seems to play a pivotal role. ACE2 is required for the entry of SARS-CoV-2 to the human host cells, and ACE2 dysregulation is implicated in the severity of COVID-19-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ACE2 imbalance is implicated in core shared pathophysiological mechanisms between PD and COVID-19, including aberrant inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and immune dysregulation. ACE2 may also be implicated in alpha-synuclein-induced dopaminergic degeneration, gut-brain axis dysregulation, blood-brain axis disruption, autonomic dysfunction, depression, anxiety, and hyposmia, which are key features of PD.
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Sierra I, Pyfrom S, Weiner A, Zhao G, Driscoll A, Yu X, Gregory BD, Vaughan AE, Anguera MC. Unusual X chromosome inactivation maintenance in female alveolar type 2 cells is correlated with increased numbers of X-linked escape genes and sex-biased gene expression. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:489-502. [PMID: 36638790 PMCID: PMC9968984 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex differences exist for many lung pathologies, including COVID-19 and pulmonary fibrosis, but the mechanistic basis for this remains unclear. Alveolar type 2 cells (AT2s), which play a key role in alveolar lung regeneration, express the X-linked Ace2 gene that has roles in lung repair and SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis, suggesting that X chromosome inactivation (XCI) in AT2s might impact sex-biased lung pathology. Here we investigate XCI maintenance and sex-specific gene expression profiles using male and female AT2s. Remarkably, the inactive X chromosome (Xi) lacks robust canonical Xist RNA "clouds" and less enrichment of heterochromatic modifications in human and mouse AT2s. We demonstrate that about 68% of expressed X-linked genes in mouse AT2s, including Ace2, escape XCI. There are genome-wide expression differences between male and female AT2s, likely influencing both lung physiology and pathophysiologic responses. These studies support a renewed focus on AT2s as a potential contributor to sex-biased differences in lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Sierra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sarah Pyfrom
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Aaron Weiner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Gan Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Amanda Driscoll
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Xiang Yu
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Brian D Gregory
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andrew E Vaughan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Penn Lung Biology Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Montserrat C Anguera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Lapo-Talledo GJ, Talledo-Delgado JA, Fernández-Aballí LS. A competing risk survival analysis of the sociodemographic factors of COVID-19 in-hospital mortality in Ecuador. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2023; 39:e00294721. [PMID: 36753093 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311xen294721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the effect of sociodemographic characteristics on COVID-19 in-hospital mortality in Ecuador from March 1 to December 31, 2020. This retrospective longitudinal study was performed with data from publicly accessible registries of the Ecuadorian National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INEC). Data underwent a competing risk analysis with estimates of the cumulative incidence function (CIF). The effect of covariates on CIFs was estimated using the Fine-Gray model and results were expressed as adjusted subdistribution hazard ratios (SHR). The analysis included 30,991 confirmed COVID-19 patients with a mean age of 56.57±18.53 years; 60.7% (n = 18,816) were men and 39.3% (n = 12,175) were women. Being of advanced age, especially older than or equal to 75 years (SHR = 17.97; 95%CI: 13.08-24.69), being a man (SHR = 1.29; 95%CI: 1.22-1.36), living in rural areas (SHR = 1.18; 95%CI: 1.10-1.26), and receiving care in a public health center (SHR = 1.64; 95%CI: 1.51-1.78) were factors that increased the incidence of death from COVID-19, while living at an elevation higher than 2,500 meters above sea level (SHR = 0.69; 95%CI: 0.66-0.73) decreased this incidence. Since the incidence of death for individuals living in rural areas and who received medical care from the public sector was higher, income and poverty are important factors in the final outcome of this disease.
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35
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Chen F, Chen Y, Ke Q, Wang Y, Gong Z, Chen X, Cai Y, Li S, Sun Y, Peng X, Ji Y, Zhang T, Wu W, Cui L, Wang Y. ApoE4 associated with severe COVID-19 outcomes via downregulation of ACE2 and imbalanced RAS pathway. J Transl Med 2023; 21:103. [PMID: 36759834 PMCID: PMC9910247 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-03945-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent numerous epidemiology and clinical association studies reported that ApoE polymorphism might be associated with the risk and severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and yielded inconsistent results. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection relies on its spike protein binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor expressed on host cell membranes. METHODS A meta-analysis was conducted to clarify the association between ApoE polymorphism and the risk and severity of COVID-19. Multiple protein interaction assays were utilized to investigate the potential molecular link between ApoE and the SARS-CoV-2 primary receptor ACE2, ApoE and spike protein. Immunoblotting and immunofluorescence staining methods were used to access the regulatory effect of different ApoE isoform on ACE2 protein expression. RESULTS ApoE gene polymorphism (ε4 carrier genotypes VS non-ε4 carrier genotypes) is associated with the increased risk (P = 0.0003, OR = 1.44, 95% CI 1.18-1.76) and progression (P < 0.00001, OR = 1.85, 95% CI 1.50-2.28) of COVID-19. ApoE interacts with both ACE2 and the spike protein but did not show isoform-dependent binding effects. ApoE4 significantly downregulates ACE2 protein expression in vitro and in vivo and subsequently decreases the conversion of Ang II to Ang 1-7. CONCLUSIONS ApoE4 increases SARS-CoV-2 infectivity in a manner that may not depend on differential interactions with the spike protein or ACE2. Instead, ApoE4 downregulates ACE2 protein expression and subsequently the dysregulation of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) may provide explanation by which ApoE4 exacerbates COVID-19 disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Chen
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China ,grid.419010.d0000 0004 1792 7072Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province Kunming Institute of Zoology Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan China
| | - Yanting Chen
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China ,grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Neurology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qiongwei Ke
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yongxiang Wang
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Zheng Gong
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Institute of Laboratory Animal Center, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Xiongjin Chen
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yujie Cai
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Shengnan Li
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yuanhong Sun
- grid.266871.c0000 0000 9765 6057Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX USA
| | - Xiaoping Peng
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yao Ji
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Tianzhen Zhang
- grid.410560.60000 0004 1760 3078Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Wenxian Wu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China. .,Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China. .,Shenzhen Research Institute, Shandong University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Lili Cui
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China.
| | - Yan Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China.
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Kelly SC, Thorne PK, Leary EV, Emter CA. Sex and diet, but not exercise, alter cardiovascular ACE2 and TMPRSS2 mRNA levels in aortic banded swine. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2023; 134:482-489. [PMID: 36656980 PMCID: PMC9942911 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00736.2022] [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] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-COV-2, or COVID-19, is a respiratory virus that enters tissues via the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor and is primed and activated by transmembrane protease, serine 2 (TMPRSS2). An interesting dichotomy exists regarding the preventative/therapeutic effects of exercise on COVID-19 infection and severity. Although exercise training has been shown to increase ACE2 receptor levels (increasing susceptibility to COVID-19 infection), it also lowers cardiovascular risk factors, systemic inflammation, and preserves normal renin-angiotensin system axis equilibrium, which is considered to outweigh any enhanced risk of infection by decreasing disease severity. The goal of this study was to determine the effects of chronic exercise training, sex, and Western diet on ACE2 and TMPRSS2 mRNA levels in preclinical swine models of heart failure. We hypothesized chronic exercise training and male sex would increase ACE2 and TMPRSS2 mRNA levels. A retrospective analysis was conducted in previously completed studies including: 1) sedentary and exercise-trained aortic banded male, intact Yucatan mini-swine (n = 6 or 7/group); 2) ovariectomized and/or aortic banded female, intact Yucatan mini-swine (n = 5-8/group); and 3) lean control or Western diet-fed aortic banded female, intact Ossabaw swine (n = 4 or 5/group). Left ventricle, right ventricle, and coronary vascular tissue were evaluated using qRT-PCR. A multivariable regression analysis was used to determine differences between exercise training, sex, and Western diet. Chronic exercise training did not alter ACE2 or TMPRSS2 level regardless of intensity. ACE2 mRNA was altered in a tissue-specific manner due to sex and Western diet. TMPRSS2 mRNA was altered in a tissue-dependent manner due to sex, Western diet, and pig species. These results highlight differences in ACE2 and TMPRSS2 mRNA regulation in an experimental setting of preclinical heart failure that may provide insight into the risk of cardiovascular complications of SARS-COV-2 infection.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This retrospective analysis evaluated the impact of exercise, sex, and diet on ACE2 and TMPRSS2 mRNA levels in preclinical swine heart failure models. Unlike normal exercise intensities, exercise training of an intensity tolerable to a patient with heart failure had no influence on ACE2 or TMPRSS2 mRNA. In a tissue-specific manner, ACE2 mRNA levels were altered due to sex and Western diet, whereas TMPRSS2 mRNA levels were sensitive to sex, Western diet, and pig species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon C. Kelly
- 1Department of Biomedical Sciences, https://ror.org/02ymw8z06University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri,2NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Pamela K. Thorne
- 1Department of Biomedical Sciences, https://ror.org/02ymw8z06University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri,2NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Emily V. Leary
- 3Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Craig A. Emter
- 1Department of Biomedical Sciences, https://ror.org/02ymw8z06University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri,2NextGen Precision Health Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
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Zinatizadeh MR, Zarandi PK, Ghiasi M, Kooshki H, Mohammadi M, Amani J, Rezaei N. Immunosenescence and inflamm-ageing in COVID-19. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 84:101818. [PMID: 36516928 PMCID: PMC9741765 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The destructive effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the elderly and people with cardiovascular disease have been proven. New findings shed light on the role of aging pathways on life span and health age. New therapies that focus on aging-related pathways may positively impact the treatment of this acute respiratory infection. Using new therapies that boost the level of the immune system can support the elderly with co-morbidities against the acute form of COVID-19. This article discusses the effect of the aging immune system against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the pathways affecting this severity of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Zinatizadeh
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran,Cancer Biology Signaling Pathway Interest Group (CBSPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Peyman Kheirandish Zarandi
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran,Cancer Biology Signaling Pathway Interest Group (CBSPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Ghiasi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Kooshki
- Nanobiotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mozafar Mohammadi
- Applied Biotechnology Research Centre, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jafar Amani
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.
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Chen H, Peng J, Wang T, Wen J, Chen S, Huang Y, Zhang Y. Counter-regulatory renin-angiotensin system in hypertension: Review and update in the era of COVID-19 pandemic. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 208:115370. [PMID: 36481346 PMCID: PMC9721294 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115370] [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: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is the major cause of mortality and disability, with hypertension being the most prevalent risk factor. Excessive activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) under pathological conditions, leading to vascular remodeling and inflammation, is closely related to cardiovascular dysfunction. The counter-regulatory axis of the RAS consists of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), angiotensin (1-7), angiotensin (1-9), alamandine, proto-oncogene Mas receptor, angiotensin II type-2 receptor and Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor member D. Each of these components has been shown to counteract the effects of the overactivated RAS. In this review, we summarize the latest insights into the complexity and interplay of the counter-regulatory RAS axis in hypertension, highlight the pathophysiological functions of ACE2, a multifunctional molecule linking hypertension and COVID-19, and discuss the function and therapeutic potential of targeting this counter-regulatory RAS axis to prevent and treat hypertension in the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyin Chen
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiangyun Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, Guangdong, China,Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Foshan 528200, Guangdong, China
| | - Tengyao Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, Guangdong, China,Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Foshan 528200, Guangdong, China
| | - Jielu Wen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, Guangdong, China,Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Foshan 528200, Guangdong, China
| | - Sifan Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, Guangdong, China,Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Foshan 528200, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China,Corresponding authors
| | - Yang Zhang
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China,Corresponding authors
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Jeeyavudeen MS, Chaudhari R, Pappachan JM, Fouda S. Clinical implications of COVID-19 in patients with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:487-502. [PMID: 36688018 PMCID: PMC9850935 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i3.487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
People across the world are affected by the "coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)", brought on by the "SARS-CoV type-2 coronavirus". Due to its high incidence in individuals with diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), COVID-19 has gained much attention. The metabolic syndrome's hepatic manifestation, MAFLD, carries a significant risk of type-2-diabetes. The link between the above two conditions has also drawn increasing consideration since MAFLD is intricately linked to the obesity epidemic. Independent of the metabolic syndrome, MAFLD may impact the severity of the viral infections, including COVID-19 or may even be a risk factor. An important question is whether the present COVID-19 pandemic has been fueled by the obesity and MAFLD epidemics. Many liver markers are seen elevated in COVID-19. MAFLD patients with associated comorbid conditions like obesity, cardiovascular disease, renal disease, malignancy, hypertension, and old age are prone to develop severe disease. There is an urgent need for more studies to determine the link between the two conditions and whether it might account for racial differences in the mortality and morbidity rates linked to COVID-19. The role of innate and adaptive immunity alterations in MAFLD patients may influence the severity of COVID-19. This review investigates the implications of COVID-19 on liver injury and disease severity and vice-versa. We also addressed the severity of COVID-19 in patients with prior MAFLD and its potential implications and therapeutic administration in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Sadiq Jeeyavudeen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University Hospitals of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, United Kingdom
| | - Rahul Chaudhari
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, United States
| | - Joseph M Pappachan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Preston PR2 9HT, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M15 6BH, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Sherouk Fouda
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne VIC, Australia
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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: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [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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41
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Angeli F, Zappa M, Verdecchia P. Rethinking the Role of the Renin-Angiotensin System in the Pandemic Era of SARS-CoV-2. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2023; 10:jcdd10010014. [PMID: 36661909 PMCID: PMC9862389 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd10010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
After assessing the levels of spread and severity of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, academic literature focused on the pathophysiology of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Angeli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 21049 Tradate, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Martina Zappa
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Paolo Verdecchia
- Fondazione Umbra Cuore e Ipertensione-ONLUS, and Division of Cardiology, Hospital S. Maria della Misericordia, 06100 Perugia, Italy
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Systematic review and meta-analysis of the clinical outcomes of ACEI/ARB in East-Asian patients with COVID-19. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280280. [PMID: 36634085 PMCID: PMC9836310 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND SARS-CoV-2 invades human cells and leads to COVID-19 by direct associating with angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors, the level of which may be increased by treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and/or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). This meta-analysis aimed to explore the impact of ACEI/ARB treatment on the clinical outcomes of patients with COVID-19 infections among population in the East-Asia region. METHODS We collected clinical data published from January 2000 to May 2022 in the English databases including PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Two reviewers independently screened and identified studies that met the prespecified criteria. Review Manager 5.3 software was used to perform the meta-analysis. RESULTS A total of 28 articles were included in this analysis. The results showed that patients who were prescribed with ACEI/ARB had a shorter duration of hospital stay [MD = -2.37, 95%CI (-3.59, -1.14), P = 0.000 2] and a lower mortality rate [OR = 0.61, 95% CI (0.52, 0.70), P<0.000 01] than patients who were not on ACEI/ARB. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference in disease severity [OR = 0.99, 95% CI (0.83, 1.17), P = 0.90] between individuals receiving ACEI/ARB or not. CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis suggested that the use of ACEI/ARB was not associated with adverse clinical outcomes in East-Asian Covid-19 patients and a reduced mortality and shorter duration of hospital stay among East-Asian population (especially for female subjects) was found. Thus, ACEI/ARB should be continued in patients infected by Covid-19.
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43
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Yassin A, Sabsigh R, Al‐Zoubi RM, Aboumarzouk OM, Alwani M, Nettleship J, Kelly D. Testosterone and Covid-19: An update. Rev Med Virol 2023; 33:e2395. [PMID: 36056748 PMCID: PMC9537909 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
There is overwhelming evidence to suggest that male gender is at a higher risk of developing more severe Covid-19 disease and thus having poorer clinical outcomes. However, the relationship between testosterone (T) and Covid-19 remains unclear with both protective and deleterious effects on different aspects of the disease suggested. Here, we review the current epidemiological and biological evidence on the role of testosterone in the process of SARS-CoV-2 infection and in mediating Covid-19 severity, its potential to serve as a biomarker for risk stratification and discuss the possibility of T supplementation as a treatment or preventative therapy for Covid-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aksam Yassin
- Surgical Research SectionHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
- Center of Medicine and Health SciencesDresden International UniversityDresdenGermany
| | - Ridwan Sabsigh
- Department of SurgerySt. Barnabas HospitalBronxNew YorkUSA
- Department of UrologyCornell UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Raed M. Al‐Zoubi
- Surgical Research SectionHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
- Department of ChemistryJordan University of Science and TechnologyIrbidJordan
| | - Omar M. Aboumarzouk
- Surgical Research SectionHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
- College of MedicineQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- College of MedicineUniversity of GlasgowGlasgowUK
| | - Mustafa Alwani
- Surgical Research SectionHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
| | - Joanne Nettleship
- Department of Oncology and MetabolismMedical SchoolUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldUK
| | - Daniel Kelly
- Department of Oncology and MetabolismMedical SchoolUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldUK
- Biomolecular Research CentreSheffield Hallam UniversitySheffieldUK
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Bandala C, Cárdenas-Rodríguez N, Reyes-Long S, Cortés-Algara A, Contreras-García IJ, Cruz-Hernández TR, Alfaro-Rodriguez A, Cortes-Altamirano JL, Perez-Santos M, Anaya-Ruiz M, Lara-Padilla E. Estrogens as a Possible Therapeutic Strategy for the Management of Neuroinflammation and Neuroprotection in COVID-19. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:2110-2125. [PMID: 37326113 PMCID: PMC10556364 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230616103850] [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: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) affects several tissues, including the central and peripheral nervous system. It has also been related to signs and symptoms that suggest neuroinflammation with possible effects in the short, medium, and long term. Estrogens could have a positive impact on the management of the disease, not only due to its already known immunomodulator effect, but also activating other pathways that may be important in the pathophysiology of COVID-19, such as the regulation of the virus receptor and its metabolites. In addition, they can have a positive effect on neuroinflammation secondary to pathologies other than COVID-19. The aim of this study is to analyze the molecular mechanisms that link estrogens with their possible therapeutic effect for neuroinflammation related to COVID-19. Advanced searches were performed in scientific databases as Pub- Med, ProQuest, EBSCO, the Science Citation index, and clinical trials. Estrogens have been shown to participate in the immune modulation of the response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In addition to this mechanism, we propose that estrogens can regulate the expression and activity of the Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), reestablishing its cytoprotective function, which may be limited by its interaction with SARS-CoV-2. In this proposal, estrogens and estrogenic compounds could increase the synthesis of Angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7)) that acts through the Mas receptor (MasR) in cells that are being attacked by the virus. Estrogens can be a promising, accessible, and low-cost treatment for neuroprotection and neuroinflammation in patients with COVID-19, due to its direct immunomodulatory capacity in decreasing cytokine storm and increasing cytoprotective capacity of the axis ACE2/Ang (1-7)/MasR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Bandala
- Higher School of Medicine, National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, 11340, Mexico
| | - Noemí Cárdenas-Rodríguez
- Higher School of Medicine, National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, 11340, Mexico
- Neuroscience Laboratory, National Institute of Pediatrics, Mexico City, 04530, Mexico
| | - Samuel Reyes-Long
- Basic Neurosciences, National Institute of Rehabilitation LGII, Mexico City, 14389, Mexico
| | - Alfredo Cortés-Algara
- Higher School of Medicine, National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, 11340, Mexico
- Department of Robotic Surgery and Laparoscopy in Gynecology, Centro Médico Nacional 20 de Noviembre, Mexico City, CP, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - José Luis Cortes-Altamirano
- Basic Neurosciences, National Institute of Rehabilitation LGII, Mexico City, 14389, Mexico
- Research Department, Ecatepec Valley State University, Valle de Anahuac, Ecatepec, 55210, Mexico State, Mexico
| | - Martín Perez-Santos
- Directorate of Innovation and Knowledge Transfer, Meritorious Autonomous University of Puebla, 72570, Puebla
| | - Maricruz Anaya-Ruiz
- Cell Biology Laboratory, Oriente Biomedical Research Center, Mexican Social Security Institute, Metepec, 74360, Puebla
| | - Eleazar Lara-Padilla
- Higher School of Medicine, National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, 11340, Mexico
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Ausín-García C, Cervilla-Muñoz E, Demelo-Rodríguez P, Villalba-García MV, Alvarez-Sala Walther LA. Visceral extra-abdominal panniculitis after COVID19. Int J Rheum Dis 2022; 26:793-796. [PMID: 36565466 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.14544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
"Retractile mesenteritis" was the first name given to a rare, benign, inflammatory disease that affects the adipose tissue of the intestinal mesentery and less frequently other locations. Now labeled as mesenteric panniculitis, the pathogenic mechanism remains unclear. Several stimuli could be involved, and it is sometimes associated with other conditions such as malignancy or autoimmune diseases. We present a case of mesenteric panniculitis with extensive abdominal and extra-abdominal involvement that developed a few months after SARS-COV2 infection, raising the hypothesis of this virus as a potential trigger for autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Ausín-García
- Internal Medicine Service, General University Hospital Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Cervilla-Muñoz
- Internal Medicine Service, General University Hospital Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
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46
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Giotis ES, Cil E, Brooke GN. Use of Antiandrogens as Therapeutic Agents in COVID-19 Patients. Viruses 2022; 14:2728. [PMID: 36560732 PMCID: PMC9788624 DOI: 10.3390/v14122728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS CoV-2), is estimated to have caused over 6.5 million deaths worldwide. The emergence of fast-evolving SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern alongside increased transmissibility and/or virulence, as well as immune and vaccine escape capabilities, highlight the urgent need for more effective antivirals to combat the disease in the long run along with regularly updated vaccine boosters. One of the early risk factors identified during the COVID-19 pandemic was that men are more likely to become infected by the virus, more likely to develop severe disease and exhibit a higher likelihood of hospitalisation and mortality rates compared to women. An association exists between SARS-CoV-2 infectiveness and disease severity with sex steroid hormones and, in particular, androgens. Several studies underlined the importance of the androgen-mediated regulation of the host protease TMPRSS2 and the cell entry protein ACE2, as well as the key role of these factors in the entry of the virus into target cells. In this context, modulating androgen signalling is a promising strategy to block viral infection, and antiandrogens could be used as a preventative measure at the pre- or early hospitalisation stage of COVID-19 disease. Different antiandrogens, including commercial drugs used to treat metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer and other conditions, have been tested as antivirals with varying success. In this review, we summarise the most recent updates concerning the use of antiandrogens as prophylactic and therapeutic options for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efstathios S. Giotis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
| | - Emine Cil
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
| | - Greg N. Brooke
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
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Sun SW, Qi C, Xiong XZ. Challenges of COPD Patients during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11121484. [PMID: 36558818 PMCID: PMC9788471 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11121484] [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: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a severe systemic infection that is a major threat to healthcare systems worldwide. According to studies, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with COVID-19 usually have a high risk of developing severe symptoms and fatality, but limited research has addressed the poor condition of COPD patients during the pandemic. This review focuses on the underlying risk factors including innate immune dysfunction, angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression, smoking status, precocious differentiation of T lymphocytes and immunosenescence in COPD patients which might account for their poor outcomes during the COVID-19 crisis. Furthermore, we highlight the role of aging of the immune system, which may be the culprit of COVID-19. In brief, we list the challenges of COPD patients in this national pandemic, aiming to provide immune-related considerations to support critical processes in COPD patients during severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and inspire immune therapy for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Wen Sun
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Chang Qi
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Xian-Zhi Xiong
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +027-85726705
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Yang Z, Roth K, Ding J, Kassotis CD, Mor G, Petriello MC. Exposure to a mixture of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances modulates pulmonary expression of ACE2 and circulating hormones and cytokines. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2022; 456:116284. [PMID: 36270329 PMCID: PMC10325118 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2022.116284] [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: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Genetic and environmental factors impact on the interindividual variability of susceptibility to communicable and non-communicable diseases. A class of ubiquitous chemicals, Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been linked in epidemiological studies to immunosuppression and increased susceptibility to viral infections, but possible mechanisms are not well elucidated. To begin to gain insight into the role of PFAS in susceptibility to one such viral infection, Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), male and female C57BL/6 J mice were exposed to control water or a mixture of 5 PFAS (PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, PFHxS, Genx) for 12 weeks and lungs were isolated for examination of expression of SARS-CoV-2-related receptors Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) and others. Secondary analyses included circulating hormones and cytokines which have been shown to directly or indirectly impact on ACE2 expression and severity of viral infections. Changes in mRNA and protein expression were analyzed by RT-qPCR and western blotting and circulating hormones and cytokines were determined by ELISA and MESO QuickPlex. The PFAS mixture decreased Ace2 mRNA 2.5-fold in male mice (p < 0.0001), with no significant change observed in females. In addition, TMPRSS2, ANPEP, ENPEP and DPP4 (other genes implicated in COVID-19 infection) were modulated due to PFAS. Plasma testosterone, but not estrogen were strikingly decreased due to PFAS which corresponded to PFAS-mediated repression of 4 representative pulmonary AR target genes; hemoglobin, beta adult major chain (Hbb-b1), Ferrochelatase (Fech), Collagen Type XIV Alpha 1 Chain (Col14a1), 5'-Aminolevulinate Synthase 2 (Alas2). Finally, PFAS modulated circulating pro and anti-inflammatory mediators including IFN-γ (downregulated 3.0-fold in females; p = 0.0301, 2.1-fold in males; p = 0.0418) and IL-6 (upregulated 5.6-fold in males; p = 0.030, no change in females). In conclusion, our data indicate long term exposure to a PFAS mixture impacts mechanisms related to expression of ACE2 in the lung. This work provides a mechanistic rationale for important future studies of PFAS exposure and subsequent viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Yang
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Katherine Roth
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Jiahui Ding
- C.S Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Christopher D Kassotis
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Gil Mor
- C.S Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Michael C Petriello
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA.
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Abstract
Purpose: COVID-19, a novel infection, presented with several complications, including socioeconomical and reproductive health challenges such as erectile dysfunction (ED). The present review summarizes the available shreds of evidence on the impact of COVID-19 on ED.Materials and methods: All published peer-reviewed articles from the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak to date, relating to ED, were reviewed. Results: Available pieces of evidence that ED is a consequence of COVID-19 are convincing. COVID-19 and ED share common risk factors such as disruption of vascular integrity, cardiovascular disease (CVD), cytokine storm, diabetes, obesity, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). COVID-19 also induces impaired pulmonary haemodynamics, increased ang II, testicular damage and low serum testosterone, and reduced arginine-dependent NO bioavailability that promotes reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and endothelial dysfunction, resulting in ED. In addition, COVID-19 triggers psychological/mental stress and suppresses testosterone-dependent dopamine concentration, which contributes to incident ED.Conclusions: In conclusion, COVID-19 exerts a detrimental effect on male reproductive function, including erectile function. This involves a cascade of events from multiple pathways. As the pandemic dwindles, identifying the long-term effects of COVID-19-induced ED, and proffering adequate and effective measures in militating against COVID-19-induced ED remains pertinent.
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Affiliation(s)
- D H Adeyemi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Osun State University, Nigeria
| | - A F Odetayo
- Department of Physiology, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - M A Hamed
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
- The Brainwill Laboratories, Osogbo, Nigeria
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - R E Akhigbe
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
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Devaux CA, Camoin-Jau L. An update on angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 structure/functions, polymorphism, and duplicitous nature in the pathophysiology of coronavirus disease 2019: Implications for vascular and coagulation disease associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus infection. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1042200. [PMID: 36519165 PMCID: PMC9742611 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1042200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been known for many years that the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a cell surface enzyme involved in the regulation of blood pressure. More recently, it was proven that the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) interacts with ACE2 to enter susceptible human cells. This functional duality of ACE2 tends to explain why this molecule plays such an important role in the clinical manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). At the very start of the pandemic, a publication from our Institute (entitled "ACE2 receptor polymorphism: susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2, hypertension, multi-organ failure, and COVID-19 disease outcome"), was one of the first reviews linking COVID-19 to the duplicitous nature of ACE2. However, even given that COVID-19 pathophysiology may be driven by an imbalance in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), we were still far from understanding the complexity of the mechanisms which are controlled by ACE2 in different cell types. To gain insight into the physiopathology of SARS-CoV-2 infection, it is essential to consider the polymorphism and expression levels of the ACE2 gene (including its alternative isoforms). Over the past 2 years, an impressive amount of new results have come to shed light on the role of ACE2 in the pathophysiology of COVID-19, requiring us to update our analysis. Genetic linkage studies have been reported that highlight a relationship between ACE2 genetic variants and the risk of developing hypertension. Currently, many research efforts are being undertaken to understand the links between ACE2 polymorphism and the severity of COVID-19. In this review, we update the state of knowledge on the polymorphism of ACE2 and its consequences on the susceptibility of individuals to SARS-CoV-2. We also discuss the link between the increase of angiotensin II levels among SARS-CoV-2-infected patients and the development of a cytokine storm associated microvascular injury and obstructive thrombo-inflammatory syndrome, which represent the primary causes of severe forms of COVID-19 and lethality. Finally, we summarize the therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing the severe forms of COVID-19 that target ACE2. Changing paradigms may help improve patients' therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian A. Devaux
- Aix-Marseille Université, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU–Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Center National de la Recherche Scientifique, Marseille, France
| | - Laurence Camoin-Jau
- Aix-Marseille Université, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU–Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
- Laboratoire d’Hématologie, Hôpital de La Timone, APHM, Boulevard Jean-Moulin, Marseille, France
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