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Shirazi M, Cianfarini C, Ismail A, Wysocki J, Wang JJ, Ye M, Zhang ZJ, Batlle D. Altered kidney distribution and loss of ACE2 into the urine in acute kidney injury. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2024; 327:F412-F425. [PMID: 38961845 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00237.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
There are diverse pathophysiological mechanisms involved in acute kidney injury (AKI). Among them, overactivity of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has been described. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a tissue RAS enzyme expressed in the apical border of proximal tubules. Given the important role of ACE2 in the metabolism of angiotensin II, this study aimed to characterize kidney and urinary ACE2 in a mouse model of AKI. Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) was induced in C57BL/6 mice by clamping of the left renal artery followed by removal of the right kidney. In kidneys harvested 48 h after IRI, immunostaining revealed a striking maldistribution of ACE2 including spillage into the tubular lumen and the presence of ACE2-positive luminal casts in the medulla. In cortical membranes, ACE2 protein and enzymatic activity were both markedly reduced (37 ± 4 vs. 100 ± 6 ACE2/β-actin, P = 0.0004, and 96 ± 14 vs. 152 ± 6 RFU/μg protein/h, P = 0.006). In urine, full-length membrane-bound ACE2 protein (100 kDa) was markedly increased (1,120 ± 405 vs. 100 ± 46 ACE2/µg creatinine, P = 0.04), and casts stained for ACE2 were recovered in the urine sediment. In conclusion, in AKI caused by IRI, there is a marked loss of ACE2 from the apical tubular border with deposition of ACE2-positive material in the medulla and increased urinary excretion of full-length membrane-bound ACE2 protein. The deficiency of tubular ACE2 in AKI suggests that provision of this enzyme could have therapeutic applications and that its excretion in the urine may also serve as a diagnostic marker of severe proximal tubular injury.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study provides novel insights into the distribution of kidney ACE2 in a model of AKI by IRI showing a striking detachment of apical ACE2 from proximal tubules and its loss in urine and urine sediment. The observed deficiency of kidney ACE2 protein and enzymatic activity in severe AKI suggests that administration of forms of this enzyme may mitigate AKI and that urinary ACE2 may serve as a potential biomarker for tubular injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Shirazi
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cosimo Cianfarini
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ahmed Ismail
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Jan Wysocki
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Jiao-Jing Wang
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Minghao Ye
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Zheng Jenny Zhang
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Daniel Batlle
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States
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Yamani F, Cianfarini C, Batlle D. Delayed Graft Function and the Renin-angiotensin System. Transplantation 2024; 108:1308-1318. [PMID: 38361243 PMCID: PMC11136607 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000004934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Delayed graft function (DGF) is a form of acute kidney injury (AKI) and a common complication following kidney transplantation. It adversely influences patient outcomes increases the financial burden of transplantation, and currently, no specific treatments are available. In developing this form of AKI, activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has been proposed to play an important role. In this review, we discuss the role of RAS activation and its contribution to the pathophysiology of DGF following the different stages of the transplantation process, from procurement and ischemia to transplantation into the recipient and including data from experimental animal models. Deceased kidney donors, whether during cardiac or brain death, may experience activation of the RAS. That may be continued or further potentiated during procurement and organ preservation. Additional evidence suggests that during implantation of the kidney graft and reperfusion in the recipient, the RAS is activated and may likely remain activated, extrapolating from other forms of AKI where RAS overactivity is well documented. Of particular interest in this setting is the status of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, a key RAS enzyme essential for the metabolism of angiotensin II and abundantly present in the apical border of the proximal tubules, which is the site of predominant injury in AKI and DGF. Interventions aimed at safely downregulating the RAS using suitable shorter forms of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 could be a way to offer protection against DGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatmah Yamani
- Division of Nephrology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Cosimo Cianfarini
- Division of Nephrology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Daniel Batlle
- Division of Nephrology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
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3
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Vitiello A, Zovi A, Trama U, Ferrara F. Overview of pharmacotherapy targeting COVID-19 disease based on ACE-2: current challenges and future directions. Herz 2023; 48:372-375. [PMID: 36331568 PMCID: PMC9638345 DOI: 10.1007/s00059-022-05142-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The new Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV‑2) triggered the pandemic of COVID-19, which is currently still ongoing. In 2021 a worldwide vaccine campaign was launched, and in parallel the lines of research are continuing to target the most effective drug therapies for the treatment of COVID-19 disease. SARS-CoV‑2 enters host cells via glycoprotein angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2), which plays a major role in renin-angiotensin system interactions and undergoes changes in expression during metabolic and viral diseases, including COVID-19. It seems that the severe lung damage that occurs in several cases of COVID-19 disease may be connected to a deregulated expression of ACE‑2. In this manuscript we focus on the line of research that studies the pharmacological modification of ACE‑2 expression, a promising weapon to counter the severe harms caused by COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Zovi
- Ministry of Health, Viale Giorgio Ribotta 5, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Ugo Trama
- General Direction for Health Protection and Coordination of the Campania Regional Health System, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Ferrara
- Pharmaceutical department, Asl Napoli 3 Sud, Dell’amicizia street 22, 80035 Nola, Naples, Italy
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Heinzelman P, Romero PA. Directed evolution of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) peptidase activity profiles for therapeutic applications. Protein Sci 2023; 32:e4597. [PMID: 36794431 PMCID: PMC10019445 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4597] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) has been investigated for its ability to beneficially modulate the Angiotensin receptor (ATR) therapeutic axis to treat multiple human diseases. Its broad substrate scope and diverse physiological roles however, limit its potential as a therapeutic agent. In this work, we address this limitation by establishing a yeast display-based liquid chromatography screen that enabled use of directed evolution to discover ACE2 variants that possess both wildtype or greater Ang-II hydrolytic activity and improved specificity toward Ang-II relative to the off-target peptide substrate Apelin-13. To obtain these results, we screened ACE2 active site libraries to reveal three substitution-tolerant positions (M360, T371 and Y510) that can be mutated to enhance ACE2's activity profile and followed up on these hits with focused double mutant libraries to further improve the enzyme. Relative to wildtype ACE2, our top variant (T371L/Y510Ile) displayed a sevenfold increase in Ang-II turnover number (kcat ), a sixfold diminished catalytic efficiency (kcat /Km ) on Apelin-13, and an overall decreased activity on other ACE2 substrates that were not directly assayed in the directed evolution screen. At physiologically relevant substrate concentrations, T371L/Y510Ile hydrolyzes as much or more Ang-II than wildtype ACE2 with concomitant Ang-II:Apelin-13 specificity improvements reaching 30-fold. Our efforts have delivered ATR axis-acting therapeutic candidates with relevance to both established and unexplored ACE2 therapeutic applications and provide a foundation for further ACE2 engineering efforts. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pete Heinzelman
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Philip A Romero
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.,Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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5
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Esfahani SH, Jayaraman S, Karamyan VT. Is Diminazene an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) Activator? Experimental Evidence and Implications. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2022; 383:149-156. [PMID: 36507848 PMCID: PMC9553104 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.122.001339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Antiprotozoal veterinary drug diminazene aceturate (DIZE) has been proposed to be an angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) activator. Since then, DIZE was used in dozens of experimental studies, but its mechanism of action attributed to ACE2 activation and enhanced formation of angiontensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] from Ang II was not carefully verified. The aim of this study was to confirm the effect of DIZE on catalytic activity of ACE2 and extend it to other peptidases involved in formation and degradation of Ang-(1-7). Concentration-dependent effect of DIZE on the initial rate of a fluorogenic substrate hydrolysis by human and mouse recombinant ACE2 was measured at assay conditions imitating that of the original report, but no activation of ACE2 was documented. Similar results were obtained with a more physiologically relevant assay buffer. In addition, DIZE did not affect activity of recombinant neprilysin, neurolysin, thimet oligopeptidase, and ACE. Efficiency of the fluorogenic substrate hydrolysis (Vmax/Km value) by ACE2 in response to different concentrations of DIZE was also measured, but no substantial effects were documented. Likewise, DIZE failed to enhance the hydrolysis of ACE2 endogenous substrate Ang II. Identity of the commercial recombinant ACE2 variants used in these experiments was confirmed by inhibition with two well characterized inhibitors (DX600 and MLN4760), activation by NaCl, and Western Blotting using validated antibodies. These observations challenge the widely accepted notion about the molecular mechanism of DIZE action and call for not ascribing this molecule as an ACE2 activator. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: DIZE has been proposed and widely used in experimental studies as an ACE2 activator. The detailed in vitro pharmacological studies failed to confirm that DIZE is an ACE2 activator. In addition, DIZE did not substantially affect the activity of other peptidases involved in formation and degradation of angiotensin-(1-7). Researchers should refrain from calling DIZE an ACE2 activator. Other mechanisms are responsible for the therapeutic benefits attributed to DIZE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Hadi Esfahani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas
| | - Srinidhi Jayaraman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas
| | - Vardan T Karamyan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas
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SARS-CoV-2 Variants, Current Vaccines and Therapeutic Implications for COVID-19. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10091538. [PMID: 36146616 PMCID: PMC9504858 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10091538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past two years, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused hundreds of millions of infections, resulting in an unprecedented pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). As the virus spreads through the population, ongoing mutations and adaptations are being discovered. There is now substantial clinical evidence that demonstrates the SARS-CoV-2 variants have stronger transmissibility and higher virulence compared to the wild-type strain of SARS-CoV-2. Hence, development of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 variants to boost individual immunity has become essential. However, current treatment options are limited for COVID-19 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 variants. In this review, we describe current distribution, variation, biology, and clinical features of COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 variants (including Alpha (B.1.1.7 Lineage) variant, Beta (B.1.351 Lineage) variant, Gamma (P.1 Lineage) variant, Delta (B.1.617.2 Lineage) variant, and Omicron (B.1.1.529 Lineage) variant and others. In addition, we review currently employed vaccines in clinical or preclinical phases as well as potential targeted therapies in an attempt to provide better preventive and treatment strategies for COVID-19 caused by different SARS-CoV-2 variants.
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Lin H, Geurts F, Hassler L, Batlle D, Mirabito Colafella KM, Denton KM, Zhuo JL, Li XC, Ramkumar N, Koizumi M, Matsusaka T, Nishiyama A, Hoogduijn MJ, Hoorn EJ, Danser AHJ. Kidney Angiotensin in Cardiovascular Disease: Formation and Drug Targeting. Pharmacol Rev 2022; 74:462-505. [PMID: 35710133 PMCID: PMC9553117 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of local formation of angiotensin II in the kidney has changed over the last 10-15 years. Local synthesis of angiotensinogen in the proximal tubule has been proposed, combined with prorenin synthesis in the collecting duct. Binding of prorenin via the so-called (pro)renin receptor has been introduced, as well as megalin-mediated uptake of filtered plasma-derived renin-angiotensin system (RAS) components. Moreover, angiotensin metabolites other than angiotensin II [notably angiotensin-(1-7)] exist, and angiotensins exert their effects via three different receptors, of which angiotensin II type 2 and Mas receptors are considered renoprotective, possibly in a sex-specific manner, whereas angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors are believed to be deleterious. Additionally, internalized angiotensin II may stimulate intracellular receptors. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) not only generates angiotensin-(1-7) but also acts as coronavirus receptor. Multiple, if not all, cardiovascular diseases involve the kidney RAS, with renal AT1 receptors often being claimed to exert a crucial role. Urinary RAS component levels, depending on filtration, reabsorption, and local release, are believed to reflect renal RAS activity. Finally, both existing drugs (RAS inhibitors, cyclooxygenase inhibitors) and novel drugs (angiotensin receptor/neprilysin inhibitors, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, soluble ACE2) affect renal angiotensin formation, thereby displaying cardiovascular efficacy. Particular in the case of the latter three, an important question is to what degree they induce renoprotection (e.g., in a renal RAS-dependent manner). This review provides a unifying view, explaining not only how kidney angiotensin formation occurs and how it is affected by drugs but also why drugs are renoprotective when altering the renal RAS. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Angiotensin formation in the kidney is widely accepted but little understood, and multiple, often contrasting concepts have been put forward over the last two decades. This paper offers a unifying view, simultaneously explaining how existing and novel drugs exert renoprotection by interfering with kidney angiotensin formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Lin
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - Frank Geurts
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - Luise Hassler
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - Daniel Batlle
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - Katrina M Mirabito Colafella
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - Kate M Denton
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - Jia L Zhuo
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - Xiao C Li
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - Nirupama Ramkumar
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - Masahiro Koizumi
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - Taiji Matsusaka
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - Akira Nishiyama
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - Martin J Hoogduijn
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - Ewout J Hoorn
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
| | - A H Jan Danser
- Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine (H.L., A.H.J.D.) and Division of Nephrology and Transplantation (F.G., M.J.H., E.J.H.), Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (L.H., D.B.); Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (K.M.M.C., K.M.D.); Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana (J.L.Z., X.C.L.); Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (N.R.); Division of Nephrology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (M.K.) and Institute of Medical Sciences and Department of Basic Medicine (M.K., T.M.), Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Japan; and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Japan (A.N.)
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8
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Vitiello A, Ferrara F. Pharmacotherapy Based on ACE2 Targeting and COVID-19 Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126644. [PMID: 35743089 PMCID: PMC9224264 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus is responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. A massive vaccination campaign, which is still ongoing, has averted most serious consequences worldwide; however, lines of research are continuing to identify the best drug therapies to treat COVID-19 infection. SARS-CoV-2 penetrates the cells of the host organism through ACE2. The ACE2 protein plays a key role in the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) and undergoes changes in expression during different stages of COVID-19 infection. It appears that an unregulated RAS is responsible for the severe lung damage that occurs in some cases of COVID-19. Pharmacologically modifying the expression of ACE2 could be an interesting line of research to follow in order to avoid the severe complications of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Vitiello
- Pharmaceutical Department, Usl Umbria 1, Via XIV Settembre, 06132 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Francesco Ferrara
- Pharmaceutical Department, Asl Napoli 3 Sud, Dell’amicizia Street 22, 80035 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +39-0813223622
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9
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Mrowka R. Recent advances in kidney research. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2022; 235:e13820. [PMID: 35403838 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Mrowka
- Experimentelle Nephrologie Universitätsklinikum Jena Jena Germany
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10
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Persson PB. Acta Physiologica, member of the top 5% club. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2022; 235:e13807. [PMID: 35224876 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pontus B. Persson
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
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11
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De R, Dutta S. Role of the Microbiome in the Pathogenesis of COVID-19. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:736397. [PMID: 35433495 PMCID: PMC9009446 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.736397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The ongoing pandemic coronavirus disease COVID-19 is caused by the highly contagious single-stranded RNA virus, SARS-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which has a high rate of evolution like other RNA viruses. The first genome sequences of SARS-CoV-2 were available in early 2020. Subsequent whole-genome sequencing revealed that the virus had accumulated several mutations in genes associated with viral replication and pathogenesis. These variants showed enhanced transmissibility and infectivity. Soon after the first outbreak due to the wild-type strain in December 2019, a genetic variant D614G emerged in late January to early February 2020 and became the dominant genotype worldwide. Thereafter, several variants emerged, which were found to harbor mutations in essential viral genes encoding proteins that could act as drug and vaccine targets. Numerous vaccines have been successfully developed to assuage the burden of COVID-19. These have different rates of efficacy, including, although rarely, a number of vaccinated individuals exhibiting side effects like thrombosis. However, the recent emergence of the Britain strain with 70% more transmissibility and South African variants with higher resistance to vaccines at a time when several countries have approved these for mass immunization has raised tremendous concern regarding the long-lasting impact of currently available prophylaxis. Apart from studies addressing the pathophysiology, pathogenesis, and therapeutic targets of SARS-CoV-2, analysis of the gut, oral, nasopharyngeal, and lung microbiome dysbiosis has also been undertaken to find a link between the microbiome and the pathogenesis of COVID-19. Therefore, in the current scenario of skepticism regarding vaccine efficacy and challenges over the direct effects of currently available drugs looming large, investigation of alternative therapeutic avenues based on the microbiome can be a rewarding finding. This review presents the currently available understanding of microbiome dysbiosis and its association with cause and consequence of COVID-19. Taking cues from other inflammatory diseases, we propose a hypothesis of how the microbiome may be influencing homeostasis, pro-inflammatory condition, and the onset of inflammation. This accentuates the importance of a healthy microbiome as a protective element to prevent the onset of COVID-19. Finally, the review attempts to identify areas where the application of microbiome research can help in reducing the burden of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rituparna De
- Division of Bacteriology, National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkota, India
- Division of Immunology, National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkota, India
| | - Shanta Dutta
- Division of Bacteriology, National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Kolkota, India
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12
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An Adverse Outcomes Approach to Study the Effects of SARS-CoV-2 in 3D Organoid Models. J Mol Biol 2022; 434:167213. [PMID: 34437890 PMCID: PMC8381630 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The novel SARS-CoV-2 virus outbreak is the major cause of a respiratory disease known as COVID-19. It has caused a global pandemic and has resulted in mortality in millions. The primary mode of infection is respiratory ailments, however, due to multi-organ complications, COVID-19 patients displays a greater mortality numbers. Due to the 3Rs Principle (Refine, Reduce, Replacement), the scientific community has shifted its focus to 3D organoid models rather than testing animal models. 3D organoid models provide a better physiological architecture as it mimics the real tissue microenvironment and is the best platform to recapitulate organs in a dish. Hence, the organoid approach provides a more realistic drug response in comparison to the traditional 2D cellular models, which lack key physiological relevance due to the absence of proper surface topography and cellular interactions. Furthermore, an adverse outcome pathway (AOPs) provides a best fit model to identify various molecular and cellular events during the exposure of SARS-CoV-2. Hence, 3D organoid research provides information related to gene expression, cell behavior, antiviral studies and ACE2 expression in various organs. In this review, we discuss state-of-the-art lung, liver and kidney 3D organoid system utilizing the AOPs to study SARS-CoV-2 molecular pathogenesis. Furthermore, current challenges are discussed for future application of 3D organoid systems for various disease states.
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13
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Wang X, Bie L, Gao J. Structural Insights into the Cofactor Role of Heparin/Heparan Sulfate in Binding between the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and Host Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme II. J Chem Inf Model 2022; 62:656-667. [PMID: 35060381 PMCID: PMC8791032 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.1c01484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The viral entry process of the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) requires heparin and heparan sulfates from the cell surface, functioning as a cofactor for human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) for recognizing the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike (S) protein on the surface of the virion. In the present study, the binding poses of an oligosaccharide with four repeating units of GlcNS6S-IdoA2S (octa) predicted by Vina-Carb in the RBD binding site were employed in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to provide atomic details for studying the cofactor mechanism. The molecular model in the MD simulations reproduced the length- and sequence-dependent behavior observed from the microarray experiments and revealed an important planar U-turn shape for HP/HS binding to RBD. The model for octa with this shape in the ACE2-RBD complex enhanced the interactions in the binding interface. The comparisons with the ACE2-RBD complex suggested that the presence of octa in the RBD binding site blocked the movements in a loop region at the distal end of the RBD binding interface and promoted the contacts of this loop region with the ACE2 N-terminus helix. This study shed light on the atomic and dynamic details for HP/HS interacting with RBD and provided insights into their cofactor role in the ACE2-RBD interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaocong Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, College of Informatics,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei,
China
| | - Lihua Bie
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, College of Informatics,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei,
China
| | - Jun Gao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, College of Informatics,
Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei,
China
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14
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Zhang M, Liang Y, Yu D, Du B, Cheng W, Li L, Yu Z, Luo S, Zhang Y, Wang H, Zhang X, Zhang W. A systematic review of Vaccine Breakthrough Infections by SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:889-900. [PMID: 35002532 PMCID: PMC8741840 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.68973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccines are proving to be highly effective in controlling hospitalization and deaths associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, as shown by clinical trials and real-world evidence. However, a deadly second wave of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), infected by SARS-CoV-2 variants, especially the Delta (B.1.617.2) variant, with an increased number of post-vaccination breakthrough infections were reported in the world recently. Actually, Delta variant not only resulted in a severe surge of vaccine breakthrough infections which was accompanied with high viral load and transmissibility, but also challenged the development of effective vaccines. Therefore, the biological characteristics and epidemiological profile of Delta variant, the current status of Delta variant vaccine breakthrough infections and the mechanism of vaccine breakthrough infections were discussed in this article. In addition, the significant role of the Delta variant spike (S) protein in the mechanism of immune escape of SARS-CoV-2 was highlighted in this article. In particular, we further discussed key points on the future SARS-CoV-2 vaccine research and development, hoping to make a contribution to the early, accurate and rapid control of the COVID-19 epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxin Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou 450018, China
| | - Ying Liang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou 450018, China
| | - Dongsheng Yu
- Department of Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Bang Du
- Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou 450018, China
| | - Weyland Cheng
- Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou 450018, China
| | - Lifeng Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou 450018, China
| | - Zhidan Yu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou 450018, China
| | - Shuying Luo
- Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou 450018, China
| | - Yaodong Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou 450018, China
| | - Huanmin Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou 450018, China
| | - Xianwei Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou 450018, China
| | - Wancun Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou 450018, China
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15
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Amezcua-Guerra LM, Del Valle L, González-Pacheco H, Springall R, Márquez-Velasco R, Massó F, Brianza-Padilla M, Manzur-Sandoval D, González-Flores J, García-Ávila C, Juárez-Vicuña Y, Sánchez-Muñoz F, Ballinas-Verdugo MA, Basilio-Gálvez E, Paez-Arenas A, Castillo-Salazar M, Cásares-Alvarado S, Hernández-Diazcouder A, Sánchez-Gloria JL, Tavera-Alonso C, Gopar-Nieto R, Sandoval J. The prognostic importance of the angiotensin II/angiotensin-(1-7) ratio in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Ther Adv Respir Dis 2022; 16:17534666221122544. [PMID: 36082632 PMCID: PMC9465579 DOI: 10.1177/17534666221122544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Information about angiotensin II (Ang II), angiotensin-converting enzyme 2
(ACE2), and Ang-(1–7) levels in patients with COVID-19 is scarce. Objective: To characterize the Ang II–ACE2–Ang-(1–7) axis in patients with SARS-CoV-2
infection to understand its role in pathogenesis and prognosis. Methods: Patients greater than 18 years diagnosed with COVID-19, based on clinical
findings and positive RT-PCR test, who required hospitalization and
treatment were included. We compared Ang II, aldosterone, Ang-(1–7), and
Ang-(1–9) concentrations and ACE2 concentration and activity between
COVID-19 patients and historic controls. We compared baseline demographics,
laboratory results (enzyme, peptide, and inflammatory marker levels), and
outcome (patients who survived versus those who died). Results: Serum from 74 patients [age: 58 (48–67.2) years; 68% men] with moderate (20%)
or severe (80%) COVID-19 were analyzed. During 13 (10–21) days of
hospitalization, 25 patients died from COVID-19 and 49 patients survived.
Compared with controls, Ang II concentration was higher and Ang-(1–7)
concentration was lower, despite significantly higher ACE2 activity in
patients. Ang II concentration was higher and Ang-(1–7) concentration was
lower in patients who died. The Ang II/Ang-(1–7) ratio was significantly
higher in patients who died. In multivariate analysis, Ang II/Ang-(1–7)
ratio greater than 3.45 (OR = 5.87) and lymphocyte count
⩽0.65 × 103/µl (OR = 8.43) were independent predictors of
mortality from COVID-19. Conclusion: In patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection, imbalance in the Ang
II–ACE2–Ang-(1–7) axis may reflect deleterious effects of Ang II and may
indicate a worse outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis M Amezcua-Guerra
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Leonardo Del Valle
- Pharmacology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Rashidi Springall
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Felipe Massó
- Translational Medicine Lab UNAM-INC Unit, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Daniel Manzur-Sandoval
- Intensive Care Unit, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Carlos García-Ávila
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Yaneli Juárez-Vicuña
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Fausto Sánchez-Muñoz
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Edna Basilio-Gálvez
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Araceli Paez-Arenas
- Translational Medicine Lab UNAM-INC Unit, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - José L Sánchez-Gloria
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Rodrigo Gopar-Nieto
- Coronary Care Unit, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Julio Sandoval
- Immunology Department, Ignacio Chávez National Institute of Cardiology, Juan Badiano # 1, Colonia Sección XVI Tlalpan, México City 14080, México
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16
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Persson PB, Persson AB. Scientific due diligence [in times of need for reliable information]. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2022; 234:e13740. [PMID: 34793624 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pontus B. Persson
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
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17
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Zanganeh S, Goodarzi N, Doroudian M, Movahed E. Potential COVID-19 therapeutic approaches targeting angiotensin-converting enzyme 2; An updated review. Rev Med Virol 2021; 32:e2321. [PMID: 34958163 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 has spread swiftly throughout the world posing a global health emergency. The significant numbers of deaths attributed to this pandemic have researchers battling to understand this new, dangerous virus. Researchers are looking to find possible treatment regimens and develop effective therapies. This study aims to provide an overview of published scientific information on potential treatments, emphasizing angiotensin-converting enzyme II (ACE2) inhibitors as one of the most important drug targets. SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD); as a viral attachment or entry inhibitor against SARS-CoV-2, human recombinant soluble ACE2; as a genetically modified soluble form of ACE2 to compete with membrane-bound ACE2, and microRNAs (miRNAs); as a negative regulator of the expression of ACE2/TMPRSS2 to inhibit SARS-CoV2 entry into cells, are the potential therapeutic approaches discussed thoroughly in this article. This review provides the groundwork for the ongoing development of therapeutic agents and effective treatments against SARS-COV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Zanganeh
- Department of Cell and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Goodarzi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Doroudian
- Department of Cell and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elaheh Movahed
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New Year, USA
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18
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Bothe TL, Patzak A, Schubert R, Pilz N. Getting it right matters! Covid-19 pandemic analogies to everyday life in medical sciences. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2021; 233:e13714. [PMID: 34228893 PMCID: PMC8420604 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Tomas L. Bothe
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt‐Universität zu Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Andreas Patzak
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt‐Universität zu Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Rudolf Schubert
- Physiology, Institute of Theoretical Medicine Medical Faculty University of Augsburg Augsburg Germany
| | - Niklas Pilz
- Institute of Vegetative Physiology Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt‐Universität zu Berlin Berlin Germany
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19
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Mrowka R. From small molecules to dinosaurs - Recent advances in blood pressure research. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2021; 232:e13677. [PMID: 33998149 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Mrowka
- Klinik für Innere Medizin IIIAG Experimentelle NephrologieUniversitätsklinikum Jena Jena Germany
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20
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Soler
- Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Daniel Batlle
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
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21
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Mülling N, Rohn H. Angiotensinkonvertierendes Enzym 2 (ACE2): Rolle in der Pathogenese von Erkrankungen außerhalb von COVID-19. DER NEPHROLOGE 2021; 16:185-188. [PMID: 33868494 PMCID: PMC8034869 DOI: 10.1007/s11560-021-00507-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- N. Mülling
- Klinik für Nephrologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Universität Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45122 Essen, Deutschland
| | - H. Rohn
- Klinik für Infektiologie, Westdeutsches Zentrum für Infektiologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Universität Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Deutschland
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22
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Wysocki J, Ye M, Hassler L, Gupta AK, Wang Y, Nicoleascu V, Randall G, Wertheim JA, Batlle D. A Novel Soluble ACE2 Variant with Prolonged Duration of Action Neutralizes SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Human Kidney Organoids. J Am Soc Nephrol 2021; 32:795-803. [PMID: 33526471 PMCID: PMC8017551 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2020101537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is an urgent need for approaches to prevent and treat SARS-CoV-2 infection. Administration of soluble ACE2 protein acting as a decoy to bind to SARS-CoV-2 should limit viral uptake mediated by binding to membrane-bound full-length ACE2, and further therapeutic benefit should result from ensuring enzymatic ACE2 activity to affected organs in patients with COVID-19. METHODS A short variant of human soluble ACE2 protein consisting of 618 amino acids (hACE2 1-618) was generated and fused with an albumin binding domain (ABD) using an artificial gene encoding ABDCon, with improved albumin binding affinity. Human kidney organoids were used for infectivity studies of SARS-CoV-2 in a BSL-3 facility to examine the neutralizing effect of these novel ACE2 variants. RESULTS Whereas plasma ACE2 activity of the naked ACE2 1-618 and ACE2 1-740 lasted about 8 hours, the ACE2 1-618-ABD resulted in substantial activity at 96 hours, and it was still biologically active 3 days after injection. Human kidney organoids express ACE2 and TMPRSS2, and when infected with SARS-CoV-2, our modified long-acting ACE2 variant neutralized infection. CONCLUSIONS This novel ACE2 1-618-ABD can neutralize SARS-CoV-2 infectivity in human kidney organoids, and its prolonged duration of action should ensure improved efficacy to prevent viral escape and dosing convenience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Wysocki
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, The Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Minghao Ye
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, The Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Luise Hassler
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, The Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ashwani Kumar Gupta
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, The Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Yuguo Wang
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, The Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Vlad Nicoleascu
- Department of Microbiology, Ricketts Laboratory, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Glenn Randall
- Department of Microbiology, Ricketts Laboratory, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jason A. Wertheim
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Department of Surgery, The Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Daniel Batlle
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, The Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
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Oz M, Lorke DE. Multifunctional angiotensin converting enzyme 2, the SARS-CoV-2 entry receptor, and critical appraisal of its role in acute lung injury. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 136:111193. [PMID: 33461019 PMCID: PMC7836742 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent emergence of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) as a pandemic affecting millions of individuals has raised great concern throughout the world, and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) was identified as the causative agent for COVID-19. The multifunctional protein angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is accepted as its primary target for entry into host cells. In its enzymatic function, ACE2, like its homologue ACE, regulates the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) critical for cardiovascular and renal homeostasis in mammals. Unlike ACE, however, ACE2 drives an alternative RAS pathway by degrading Ang-II and thus operates to balance RAS homeostasis in the context of hypertension, heart failure, and cardiovascular as well as renal complications of diabetes. Outside the RAS, ACE2 hydrolyzes key peptides, such as amyloid-β, apelin, and [des-Arg9]-bradykinin. In addition to its enzymatic functions, ACE2 is found to regulate intestinal amino acid homeostasis and the gut microbiome. Although the non-enzymatic function of ACE2 as the entry receptor for SARS-CoV-2 has been well established, the contribution of enzymatic functions of ACE2 to the pathogenesis of COVID-19-related lung injury has been a matter of debate. A complete understanding of this central enzyme may begin to explain the various symptoms and pathologies seen in SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals, and may aid in the development of novel treatments for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Oz
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kuwait University, Safat 13110, Kuwait.
| | - Dietrich Ernst Lorke
- Department of Anatomy and Cellular Biology, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Abstract
Growing evidence implicates the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in multiple facets of neuropathic pain (NP). This narrative review focuses primarily on the major bioactive RAS peptide, Angiotensin II (Ang II), and its receptors, namely type 1 (AT1R) and type 2 (AT2R). Both receptors are involved in the development of NP and represent potential therapeutic targets. We first discuss the potential role of Ang II receptors in modulation of NP in the central nervous system. Ang II receptor expression is widespread in circuits associated with the perception and modulation of pain, but more studies are required to fully characterize receptor distribution, downstream signaling, and therapeutic potential of targeting the central nervous system RAS in NP. We then describe the peripheral neuronal and nonneuronal distribution of the RAS, and its contribution to NP. Other RAS modulators (such as Ang (1-7)) are briefly reviewed as well. AT1R antagonists are analgesic across different pain models, including NP. Several studies show neuronal protection and outgrowth downstream of AT2R activation, which may lead to the use of AT2R agonists in NP. However, blockade of AT2R results in analgesia. Furthermore, expression of the RAS in the immune system and a growing appreciation of neuroimmune crosstalk in NP add another layer of complexity and therapeutic potential of targeting this pathway. A growing number of human studies also hint at the analgesic potential of targeting Ang II signaling. Altogether, Ang II receptor signaling represents a promising, far-reaching, and novel strategy to treat NP.
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25
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Malinowska B, Baranowska-Kuczko M, Kicman A, Schlicker E. Opportunities, Challenges and Pitfalls of Using Cannabidiol as an Adjuvant Drug in COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1986. [PMID: 33671463 PMCID: PMC7922403 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection may lead to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) which, in turn, may be associated with multiple organ dysfunction. In this review, we present advantages and disadvantages of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid from the cannabis plant, as a potential agent for the treatment of COVID-19. CBD has been shown to downregulate proteins responsible for viral entry and to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication. Preclinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness against diseases of the respiratory system as well as its cardioprotective, nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and anti-convulsant properties, that is, effects that may be beneficial for COVID-19. Only the latter two properties have been demonstrated in clinical studies, which also revealed anxiolytic and antinociceptive effects of CBD (given alone or together with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol), which may be important for an adjuvant treatment to improve the quality of life in patients with COVID-19 and to limit post-traumatic stress symptoms. However, one should be aware of side effects of CBD (which are rarely serious), drug interactions (also extending to drugs acting against COVID-19) and the proper route of its administration (vaping may be dangerous). Clearly, further clinical studies are necessary to prove the suitability of CBD for the treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Malinowska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
| | - Marta Baranowska-Kuczko
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Kicman
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
| | - Eberhard Schlicker
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
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26
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Davidson AM, Wysocki J, Batlle D. Interaction of SARS-CoV-2 and Other Coronavirus With ACE (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme)-2 as Their Main Receptor: Therapeutic Implications. Hypertension 2020; 76:1339-1349. [PMID: 32851855 PMCID: PMC7480804 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.120.15256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 originated from Wuhan, China, in December 2019 and rapidly spread to other areas worldwide. Since then, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has reached pandemic proportions with >570 000 deaths globally by mid-July 2020. The magnitude of the outbreak and the potentially severe clinical course of COVID-19 has led to a burst of scientific research on this novel coronavirus and its host receptor ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme)-2. ACE2 is a homolog of the ACE that acts on several substrates in the renin-Ang (angiotensin) system. With unprecedented speed, scientific research has solved the structure of SARS-CoV-2 and imaged its binding with the ACE2 receptor. In SARS-CoV-2 infection, the viral S (spike) protein receptor-binding domain binds to ACE2 to enter the host cell. ACE2 expression in the lungs is relatively low, but it is present in type II pneumocytes-a cell type also endowed with TMPRSS2 (transmembrane protease serine 2). This protease is critical for priming the SARS-CoV-2 S protein to complex with ACE2 and enter the cells. Herein, we review the current understanding of the interaction of SARS-CoV-2 with ACE2 as it has rapidly unfolded over the last months. While it should not be assumed that we have a complete picture of SARS-CoV-2 mechanism of infection and its interaction with ACE2, much has been learned with clear therapeutic implications. Potential therapies aimed at intercepting SARS-CoV-2 from reaching the full-length membrane-bound ACE2 receptor using soluble ACE2 protein and other potential approaches are briefly discussed as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M. Davidson
- From the Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611
| | - Jan Wysocki
- From the Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611
| | - Daniel Batlle
- From the Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611
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