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Khalil B, Sharif-Askari NS, Hafezi S, Sharif-Askari FS, Al Anouti F, Hamid Q, Halwani R. Vitamin D regulates COVID-19 associated severity by suppressing the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302818. [PMID: 38748756 PMCID: PMC11095707 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of vitamin D3 (VitD3) in modulating innate and adaptive immunity has been reported in different disease contexts. Since the start of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the role of VitD3 has been highlighted in many correlational and observational studies. However, the exact mechanisms of action are not well identified. One of the mechanisms via which VitD3 modulates innate immunity is by regulating the NLRP3-inflammasome pathway, being a main underlying cause of SARS-CoV-2-induced hyperinflammation. AIMS AND MAIN METHODS Blood specimens of severe COVID-19 patients with or without VitD3 treatment were collected during their stay in the intensive care unit and patients were followed up for 29 days. qPCR, western blot, and ELISA were done to investigate the mechanism of action of VitD3 on the NLRP3 inflammasome activation. KEY FINDINGS We here report the ability of VitD3 to downregulate the NLRP3-inflammsome pathway in severe COVID-19 patients. Lower inflammasome pathway activation was observed with significantly lower gene and protein expression of NLRP3, cleaved caspase-1, ASC and IL-1β among severe COVID-19 patients treated with VitD3. The reduction of the inflammasome pathway was associated with a reduction in disease severity markers and enhancement of type I IFN pathway. SIGNIFICANCE Our data reveals an important anti-inflammatory effect of VitD3 during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Further investigations are warranted to better characterize the ability of VitD3 to control disease pathogenesis and prevent progression to severe states. This will allow for a more efficient use of a low cost and accessible treatment like VitD3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bariaa Khalil
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Narjes Saheb Sharif-Askari
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shirin Hafezi
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatemeh Saheb Sharif-Askari
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatme Al Anouti
- College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- ASPIRE Precision Medicine Research Institute, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Qutayba Hamid
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Rabih Halwani
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Prince Abdullah Ben Khaled Celiac Disease Research Chair, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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2
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Saheb Sharif-Askari N, Hafezi S, Saheb Sharif-Askari F, Ali Hussain Alsayed H, B. M. Ahmed S, Alsafar HS, Halwani R. Multiple inborn errors of type I IFN immunity in a 33-year-old male with a fatal case of COVID-19. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29338. [PMID: 38665565 PMCID: PMC11043952 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The host genetic inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) have been shown to contribute to susceptibility to life-threatening coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), as it had been associated previously with other viral infections. Most genetic association studies have described IEIs as a monogenic defect, while there have been no reports of patients with multiple inherited immune deficiencies. This is a complex case of IEIs predisposing to severe viral infections in an unvaccinated 33-year-old male patient. The patient was admitted with no respiratory symptoms, showed a SARS-CoV-2 PCR positive test on the second day of admission, started developing progressive lung consolidation within three days of hospitalization, and was moved from non-invasive to mechanical ventilation within 12 days of hospitalization. Impaired production of type I IFN was detected in patient PBMCs treated with poly(I:C), at both mRNA and protein levels. Whole exome sequencing revealed three mutations across type I IFN production pathway, which were predicted to be loss-of-function (pLOF). The three mutations were predicted to predispose to severe viral infections: monoallelic R488X TLR3, monoallelic His684Arg TLR3, and biallelic Val363Met IRF3. Functional analysis confirmed that all these mutations dysregulated the type I IFN pathway. Evaluation of TLR3 and IRF3 IFN-β1 luciferase reporter activity showed a hypomorphic suppression of function. TOPO TA cloning was used to ascertain the positioning of both TLR3 variants, indicating that both variants were on the same allele. We have described a unique complex IEI patient with multiple mutations, particularly along type I IFN production pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narjes Saheb Sharif-Askari
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shirin Hafezi
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatemeh Saheb Sharif-Askari
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of pharmacy practice and pharmacotherapeutics, College of pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hawra Ali Hussain Alsayed
- Department of Pharmacy, Rashid Hospital, Dubai Academic Health Corporation, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Samrein B. M. Ahmed
- Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, College of Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, S1 1WB, UK
| | - Habiba S. Alsafar
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rabih Halwani
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Prince Abdullah Ben Khaled Celiac Disease Research Chair, department of pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia
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3
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Nahalka J. 1-L Transcription of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein S1 Subunit. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4440. [PMID: 38674024 PMCID: PMC11049929 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084440] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted rapid research on SARS-CoV-2 pathogenicity. Consequently, new data can be used to advance the molecular understanding of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The present bioinformatics study discusses the "spikeopathy" at the molecular level and focuses on the possible post-transcriptional regulation of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein S1 subunit in the host cell/tissue. A theoretical protein-RNA recognition code was used to check the compatibility of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein S1 subunit with mRNAs in the human transcriptome (1-L transcription). The principle for this method is elucidated on the defined RNA binding protein GEMIN5 (gem nuclear organelle-associated protein 5) and RNU2-1 (U2 spliceosomal RNA). Using the method described here, it was shown that 45% of the genes/proteins identified by 1-L transcription of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein S1 subunit are directly linked to COVID-19, 39% are indirectly linked to COVID-19, and 16% cannot currently be associated with COVID-19. The identified genes/proteins are associated with stroke, diabetes, and cardiac injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jozef Nahalka
- Institute of Chemistry, Centre for Glycomics, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska Cesta 9, SK-84538 Bratislava, Slovakia;
- Institute of Chemistry, Centre of Excellence for White-Green Biotechnology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Trieda Andreja Hlinku 2, SK-94976 Nitra, Slovakia
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4
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Lefkowitz RB, Miller CM, Martinez-Caballero JD, Ramos I. Epigenetic Control of Innate Immunity: Consequences of Acute Respiratory Virus Infection. Viruses 2024; 16:197. [PMID: 38399974 PMCID: PMC10893272 DOI: 10.3390/v16020197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Infections caused by acute respiratory viruses induce a systemic innate immune response, which can be measured by the increased levels of expression of inflammatory genes in immune cells. There is growing evidence that these acute viral infections, alongside transient transcriptomic responses, induce epigenetic remodeling as part of the immune response, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, which might persist after the infection is cleared. In this article, we first review the primary mechanisms of epigenetic remodeling in the context of innate immunity and inflammation, which are crucial for the regulation of the immune response to viral infections. Next, we delve into the existing knowledge concerning the impact of respiratory virus infections on the epigenome, focusing on Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Influenza A Virus (IAV), and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Finally, we offer perspectives on the potential consequences of virus-induced epigenetic remodeling and open questions in the field that are currently under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rivka Bella Lefkowitz
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (R.B.L.); (C.M.M.)
| | - Clare M. Miller
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (R.B.L.); (C.M.M.)
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Juan David Martinez-Caballero
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (R.B.L.); (C.M.M.)
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Irene Ramos
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (R.B.L.); (C.M.M.)
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
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5
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Pal D, De K, Yates TB, Kolape J, Muchero W. Mutating novel interaction sites in NRP1 reduces SARS-CoV-2 spike protein internalization. iScience 2023; 26:106274. [PMID: 36910328 PMCID: PMC9957656 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus has become a severe global health problem because of its rapid spread. Both Ace2 and NRP1 provide initial viral binding sites for SARS-CoV-2. Here, we show that cysteine residues located in the vestigial plasminogen-apple-nematode (PAN) domain of NRP1 are necessary for SARS-CoV-2 spike protein internalization. Mutating novel cysteine residues in the PAN altered NRP1 stability and downstream activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway and impaired its interaction with the spike protein. This resulted in a significant reduction in spike protein abundance in Vero-E6 cells for the original, alpha, and delta SARS-CoV-2 variants even in the presence of the Ace2. Moreover, mutating these cysteine residues in NRP1 significantly lowered its association with Plexin-A1. As the spike protein is a critical component for targeted therapy, our biochemical study may represent a distinct mechanism to develop a path for future therapeutic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debjani Pal
- Radioisotope Science and Technology Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37830, USA
- Bioscience Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
| | - Kuntal De
- Bioscience Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
| | - Timothy B. Yates
- Bioscience Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
- Bredesen Center for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Jaydeep Kolape
- Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Wellington Muchero
- Bioscience Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
- Bredesen Center for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
- Corresponding author
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Böröcz K, Kinyó Á, Simon D, Erdő-Bonyár S, Németh P, Berki T. Complexity of the Immune Response Elicited by Different COVID-19 Vaccines, in the Light of Natural Autoantibodies and Immunomodulatory Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076439. [PMID: 37047412 PMCID: PMC10094397 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the abundance of data on the COVID-19 vaccine-induced immune activation, the impact of natural autoantibodies (nAAbs) on these processes is less well defined. Therefore, we investigated potential connections between vaccine efficacy and nAAb levels. We were also interested in the impact of immunomodulatory therapies on vaccine efficacy. Clinical residual samples were used for the assessment of the COVID-19 vaccine-elicited immune response (IR) (n=255), as well as for the investigation of the immunization-associated expansion of the nAAb pool (n=185). In order to study the potential interaction between immunomodulatory therapies and the vaccine-induced IR, untreated, healthy individuals and patients receiving anti-TNFα or anti-IL-17 therapies were compared (n total =45). In-house ELISAs (anticitrate synthase, anti-HSP60 and-70) and commercial ELISAs (anti-SARS-CoV-2 ELISAs IgG, IgA, NeutraLISA and IFN-γ release assay 'IGRA') were applied. We found significant differences in the IR given to different vaccines. Moreover, nAAb levels showed plasticity in response to anti-COVID-19 immunization. We conclude that our findings may support the theorem about the non-specific beneficial 'side effects' of vaccination, including the broadening of the nAAb repertoire. Considering immunomodulation, we suggest that anti-TNFα and anti-IL17 treatments may interfere negatively with MALT-associated IR, manifested as decreased IgA titers; however, the modest sample numbers of the herein presented model might be a limiting factor of reaching a more comprehensive conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katalin Böröcz
- Department of Immunology and Biotechnology, Clinical Center, University of Pécs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ágnes Kinyó
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Oncodermatology, Clinical Center, University of Pécs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Diana Simon
- Department of Immunology and Biotechnology, Clinical Center, University of Pécs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Szabina Erdő-Bonyár
- Department of Immunology and Biotechnology, Clinical Center, University of Pécs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Péter Németh
- Department of Immunology and Biotechnology, Clinical Center, University of Pécs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Timea Berki
- Department of Immunology and Biotechnology, Clinical Center, University of Pécs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
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7
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Altered expression of DNA methyltransferases and methylation status of the TLR4 and TNF-α promoters in COVID-19. Arch Virol 2023; 168:95. [PMID: 36840831 PMCID: PMC9959945 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-023-05722-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications play a significant role in the host's immune response to viral infection. Two epigenetic events, DNA methylation and histone acetylation, are crucial for modifying the chromatin architecture and the location of regulatory elements such as promoters and enhancers. In this case-control study, we evaluated the expression of genes involved in epigenetic machinery (DNMT1, DNMT3A, DNMT3B, HDAC2, and HDAC3) and the degree of methylation of promoters of immune response genes (IFITM1/2/3, TLR3/4, TNF-α, NF-κB, and MYD88) as well as global methylation (LINE-1 and global 5-mC) in blood samples from 120 COVID-19 patients (30 mild, 30 moderate, 30 severe, and 30 critical) and 30 healthy subjects without COVID-19. In contrast to previous reports, DNMT3A and DNMT3B expression was found to be significantly downregulated in COVID-19 cases, whereas DNMT1, HDAC2, and HDAC3 expression did not change. DNMT1 and DNMT3A were negatively correlated with COVID-19 severity. Critically ill patients had lower HDAC3 expression levels. TLR4 and TNF-α had increased promoter methylation, whereas IFITM1/2/3, TLR3, NF-κB, MYD88, and LINE-1 did not differ between cases and controls. Methylation of the TNF-α promoter increased as disease severity increased. Significantly less methylation of the TLR3 promoter was observed in patients with a positive outcome (recovery). We also found a correlation between the expression of DNMT3B and the methylation level of the TLR4 promoter. In milder cases, the global 5-mC levels were lower than that in more severe cases. Our findings suggest the exclusion of DNMTs inhibitors previously recommended for COVID-19 treatment and the need for additional research in this area.
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8
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Muhammad JS, Siddiqui R, Khan NA. Monkeypox virus-induced upregulation of interleukin-10 signaling: could epigenetics be involved in long-term viral persistence? Hosp Pract (1995) 2023; 51:51-53. [PMID: 36772924 DOI: 10.1080/21548331.2023.2179770] [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: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Jibran Sualeh Muhammad
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE.,Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
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9
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Bi M, Kang W, Sun Y. Expression of HSPA14 in patients with acute HIV-1 infection and its effect on HIV-1 replication. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1123600. [PMID: 36845091 PMCID: PMC9947146 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1123600] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Heat shock protein (HSPs) are important intracellular factors, which are often involved in the regulation of viral replication including HIV-1 in infected individuals as molecular chaperone proteins. Heat shock proteins 70 (HSP70/HSPA) family play important roles in HIV replication, but this family contain many subtypes, and it is unclear how these subtypes participate in and affect HIV replication. Methods To detect the interaction between HSPA14 and HspBP1 by CO-IP. Simulating HIV infection status in vitro to detect the change of intracellular HSPA14 expression after HIV infection in different cells. Constructing HSPA14 overexpression or knockdown cells to detect intracellular HIV replication levels after in vitro infection. Detecting the difference of HSPA expression levels in CD4+ T cells of untreated acute HIV-infected patients with different viral load. Results In this study, we found that HIV infection can lead to changes in the transcriptional level of many HSPA subtypes, among which HSPA14 interacts with HIV transcriptional inhibitor HspBP1. The expression of HSPA14 in Jurkat and primary CD4+T cells infected with HIV were inhibited, overexpression of HSPA14 inhibited HIV replication, while knocking down HSPA14 promoted HIV replication. We also found that the expression level of HSPA14 is higher in peripheral blood CD4+T cells of untreated acute HIV infection patients with low viral load. Conclusion HSPA14 is a potential HIV replication inhibitor and may restrict HIV replication by regulating the transcriptional inhibitor HspBP1. Further studies are needed to determine the specific mechanism by which HSPA14 regulates viral replication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wen Kang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yongtao Sun
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
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10
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Kasperkiewicz M, Tukaj S. Targeting heat shock proteins 90 and 70: A promising remedy for both autoimmune bullous diseases and COVID-19. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1080786. [PMID: 36591225 PMCID: PMC9797581 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1080786] [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: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Heat shock proteins (Hsps), including Hsp90 and Hsp70, are intra- and extracellular molecules implicated in cellular homeostasis and immune processes and are induced by cell stress such as inflammation and infection. Autoimmune bullous disorders (AIBDs) and COVID-19 represent potentially life-threatening inflammatory and infectious diseases, respectively. A significant portion of AIBDs remain refractory to currently available immunosuppressive therapies, which may represent a risk factor for COVID-19, and suffer from treatment side-effects. Despite advances in vaccination, there is still a need to develop new therapeutic approaches targeting SARS-CoV-2, especially considering vaccine hesitancy, logistical distribution challenges, and breakthrough infections. In this mini review, we briefly summarize the role of targeting Hsp90/70 as a promising double-edged sword in the therapy of AIBDs and COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kasperkiewicz
- Department of Dermatology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States,*Correspondence: Michael Kasperkiewicz,
| | - Stefan Tukaj
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
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11
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Becker S, Jonigk D, Luft A, Dübbel L, Werlein C, Malik E, Schild-Suhren M. COVID-19 can lead to rapid progression of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia by dysregulating the immune system: A hypothesis. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 154:103763. [PMID: 36399874 PMCID: PMC9645588 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103763] [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: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 is a multisystem disease and cause of a global pandemic. Lately, cases of disease progression of HPV-infected CIN under SARS-CoV-2 infection were reported giving rise to the hypothesis of direct virus-infection induced pro-carcinogenic effect of SARS-CoV-2. We herein present a case of rapid progression from HPV-induced CIN 2 to microinvasive carcinoma within three months under COVID-19 without direct virus infection. Histopathologic evaluation, Fluorescence-in-situ hybridization and qRT-PCR against SARS-CoV-2 RNA as well as gene expression analysis were performed from the available FFPE-tissue and accompanied by an analysis of white blood cell differential. No signs of direct SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 typical alterations of cervical tissue were found. As expected, p53 decreased in expression with progression of dysplasia, while APOBEC3A and VISTA showed a decrease in expression contrary to observations in dysplasia progression. PD-L1 was expressed consistently or increased slightly but did not show the expected strong induction of expression. DNMT1 showed an increase in expression in CIN III and a slight decrease in carcinoma, while DNMT3a is consistently expressed in CIN II and decreased in carcinoma. Blood tests after COVID-19 showed substantial reduction of lymphocytes, eosinophils, T-cells, and NK-cells. Our results hint at an indirect effect of COVID-19 on the cervical neoplasm. We conclude that the immune system might be preoccupied and exhausted by the concurring COVID-19 disease, leading to less immunological pressure on the HPV-infected cervical dysplasia enabling rapid disease progression. Further, indirect proangiogenic and proinflammatory micromilieu due to the multisystemic effects of COVID-19 might play an additional role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabeth Becker
- University clinic of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Emsstraße 20, 26382 Wilhelmshaven, Germany,University clinic of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum Oldenburg, Rahel-Straus-Straße 10, 26133 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Danny Jonigk
- Institute of Pathology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany,Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Biomedical Research in Endstage and Obstructive Lung Disease Hannover (BREATH), Germany
| | - Angelina Luft
- University clinic of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Emsstraße 20, 26382 Wilhelmshaven, Germany
| | - Lena Dübbel
- University clinic of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Emsstraße 20, 26382 Wilhelmshaven, Germany,Corresponding author
| | | | - Eduard Malik
- University clinic of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Emsstraße 20, 26382 Wilhelmshaven, Germany,University clinic of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum Oldenburg, Rahel-Straus-Straße 10, 26133 Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Meike Schild-Suhren
- University clinic of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Emsstraße 20, 26382 Wilhelmshaven, Germany,University clinic of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum Oldenburg, Rahel-Straus-Straße 10, 26133 Oldenburg, Germany
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12
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SARS-CoV-2-induced hypomethylation of the ferritin heavy chain (FTH1) gene underlies serum hyperferritinemia in severe COVID-19 patients. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 631:138-145. [PMID: 36183555 PMCID: PMC9509293 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.09.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
High serum ferritin (hyperferritinemia), a reliable hallmark of severe COVID-19 often associates with a moderate decrease in serum iron (hypoferremia) and a moderate increase in serum hepcidin. This suggests that hyperferritinemia in severe COVID-19 is reflective of inflammation rather than iron overload. To test this possibility, the expression status of ferritin heavy chain (FTH1), transferrin receptor 1 (TFRC), hepcidin (HAMP), and ferroportin (SLC40A1) genes and promoter methylation status of FTH1 and TFRC genes were examined in blood samples obtained from COVID-19 patients showing no, mild or severe symptoms and in healthy-donor monocytes stimulated with SARS-CoV-2-derived peptides. Severe COVID-19 samples showed a significant increase in FTH1 expression and hypomethylation relative to mild or asymptomatic COVID-19 samples. S-peptide treated monocytes also showed a significant increase in FTH1 expression and hypomethylation relative to that in controls; treatment with ECD or NP did not change FTH1 expression nor its methylation status. In silico and in vitro analysis showed a significant increase in the expression of the TET3 demethylase in S peptide-treated monocytes. Findings presented here suggest that S peptide-driven hypomethylation of the FTH1 gene promoter underlies hyperferritinemia in severe COVID-19 disease.
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Vitamin D enhances type I IFN signaling in COVID-19 patients. Sci Rep 2022; 12:17778. [PMID: 36273032 PMCID: PMC9588043 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22307-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability of Vitamin D (VitD) to modulate antiviral responses through induction of antimicrobial peptide is well established. However, the effect of VitD on host responses to SARS-CoV-2 is not well investigated. We here report the ability of VitD to enhance host IFN-alpha/beta (a/β) signaling both in vitro and among severe COVID-19 patients treated with VitD. Blood and saliva specimens were obtained from severe COVID-19 patients treated (43 patients), or not (37 patients), with vitD, during their stay in intensive care unit. Patients were followed up to 29 days following admission, and patient survival outcomes were collected. Higher activity levels of RIG-1/MDA-5 and JAK-STAT signaling pathways were observed with significantly higher gene and protein levels of antiviral interferon stimulating genes (ISGs) such as MX-1 and ISG-15; both in vitro, following treatment of PBMCs with vitD, and in whole blood and saliva specimens of VitD treated patients. Moreover, VitD treated patients had lower risk of all-cause mortality by day 29 compared to untreated patients (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.37, 95% confidence interval of 0.14-0.94; P = 0.038). The herein uncovered regulatory role of VitD on type I IFNs suggests the importance of insuring a normal level of VitD for the prevention and probably treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Additional mechanistic studies, however, are needed to fully elucidate the antiviral effects of VitD particularly in the setting of COVID-19 infection.
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The FDA-approved drug Auranofin has a dual inhibitory effect on SARS-CoV-2 entry and NF-κB signaling. iScience 2022; 25:105066. [PMID: 36093378 PMCID: PMC9439859 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with severe COVID-19 show an altered immune response that fails to control the viral spread and suffer from exacerbated inflammatory response, which eventually can lead to death. A major challenge is to develop an effective treatment for COVID-19. NF-κB is a major player in innate immunity and inflammatory process. By a high-throughput screening approach, we identified FDA-approved compounds that inhibit the NF-κB pathway and thus dampen inflammation. Among these, we show that Auranofin prevents post-translational modifications of NF-κB effectors and their recruitment into activating complexes in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection or cytokine stimulation. In addition, we demonstrate that Auranofin counteracts several steps of SARS-CoV-2 infection. First, it inhibits a raft-dependent endocytic pathway involved in SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells; Second, Auranofin alters the ACE2 mobility at the plasma membrane. Overall, Auranofin should prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection and inflammatory damages, offering new opportunities as a repurposable drug candidate to treat COVID-19. Original high throughput screening of NF-κB inhibitory drugs Auranofin inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication Auranofin increases the ACE2 mobility at the plasma membrane Auranofin inhibits ACE-2-dependent SARS-CoV-2 endocytosis
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Liu L, Zhang Y, Chen Y, Zhao Y, Shen J, Wu X, Li M, Chen M, Li X, Sun Y, Gu L, Li W, Wang F, Yao L, Zhang Z, Xiao Z, Du F. Therapeutic prospects of ceRNAs in COVID-19. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:998748. [PMID: 36204652 PMCID: PMC9530275 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.998748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the end of 2019, COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 has spread worldwide, and the understanding of the new coronavirus is in a preliminary stage. Currently, immunotherapy, cell therapy, antiviral therapy, and Chinese herbal medicine have been applied in the clinical treatment of the new coronavirus; however, more efficient and safe drugs to control the progress of the new coronavirus are needed. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) may provide new therapeutic targets for novel coronavirus treatments. The first aim of this paper is to review research progress on COVID-19 in the respiratory, immune, digestive, circulatory, urinary, reproductive, and nervous systems. The second aim is to review the body systems and potential therapeutic targets of lncRNAs, miRNAs, and circRNAs in patients with COVID-19. The current research on competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) (lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA) in SARS-CoV-2 is summarized. Finally, we predict the possible therapeutic targets of four lncRNAs, MALAT1, NEAT1, TUG1, and GAS5, in COVID-19. Importantly, the role of PTEN gene in the ceRNA network predicted by lncRNA MALAT1 and lncRNA TUG1 may help in the discovery and clinical treatment of effective drugs for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou Science and Technology Bureau, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou Science and Technology Bureau, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou Science and Technology Bureau, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
| | - Yueshui Zhao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou Science and Technology Bureau, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
| | - Jing Shen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou Science and Technology Bureau, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
| | - Xu Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou Science and Technology Bureau, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
| | - Mingxing Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou Science and Technology Bureau, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
| | - Meijuan Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiaobing Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yuhong Sun
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Li Gu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Wanping Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Lei Yao
- Experiment Medicine Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Zhuo Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Zhuo Zhang, ; Zhangang Xiao, ; Fukuan Du,
| | - Zhangang Xiao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou Science and Technology Bureau, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Zhuo Zhang, ; Zhangang Xiao, ; Fukuan Du,
| | - Fukuan Du
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Cell Therapy & Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou Science and Technology Bureau, Luzhou, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Zhuo Zhang, ; Zhangang Xiao, ; Fukuan Du,
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Gene Networks of Hyperglycemia, Diabetic Complications, and Human Proteins Targeted by SARS-CoV-2: What Is the Molecular Basis for Comorbidity? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137247. [PMID: 35806251 PMCID: PMC9266766 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
People with diabetes are more likely to have severe COVID-19 compared to the general population. Moreover, diabetes and COVID-19 demonstrate a certain parallelism in the mechanisms and organ damage. In this work, we applied bioinformatics analysis of associative molecular networks to identify key molecules and pathophysiological processes that determine SARS-CoV-2-induced disorders in patients with diabetes. Using text-mining-based approaches and ANDSystem as a bioinformatics tool, we reconstructed and matched networks related to hyperglycemia, diabetic complications, insulin resistance, and beta cell dysfunction with networks of SARS-CoV-2-targeted proteins. The latter included SARS-CoV-2 entry receptors (ACE2 and DPP4), SARS-CoV-2 entry associated proteases (TMPRSS2, CTSB, and CTSL), and 332 human intracellular proteins interacting with SARS-CoV-2. A number of genes/proteins targeted by SARS-CoV-2 (ACE2, BRD2, COMT, CTSB, CTSL, DNMT1, DPP4, ERP44, F2RL1, GDF15, GPX1, HDAC2, HMOX1, HYOU1, IDE, LOX, NUTF2, PCNT, PLAT, RAB10, RHOA, SCARB1, and SELENOS) were found in the networks of vascular diabetic complications and insulin resistance. According to the Gene Ontology enrichment analysis, the defined molecules are involved in the response to hypoxia, reactive oxygen species metabolism, immune and inflammatory response, regulation of angiogenesis, platelet degranulation, and other processes. The results expand the understanding of the molecular basis of diabetes and COVID-19 comorbidity.
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17
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Zhuang Z, Zhong X, Chen Q, Chen H, Liu Z. Bioinformatics and System Biology Approach to Reveal the Interaction Network and the Therapeutic Implications for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients With COVID-19. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:857730. [PMID: 35721149 PMCID: PMC9201692 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.857730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the leading cause of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), is an emerging global health crisis. Lung cancer patients are at a higher risk of COVID-19 infection. With the increasing number of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with COVID-19, there is an urgent need of efficacious drugs for the treatment of COVID-19/NSCLC. Methods: Based on a comprehensive bioinformatic and systemic biological analysis, this study investigated COVID-19/NSCLC interactional hub genes, detected common pathways and molecular biomarkers, and predicted potential agents for COVID-19 and NSCLC. Results: A total of 122 COVID-19/NSCLC interactional genes and 21 interactional hub genes were identified. The enrichment analysis indicated that COVID-19 and NSCLC shared common signaling pathways, including cell cycle, viral carcinogenesis, and p53 signaling pathway. In total, 10 important transcription factors (TFs) and 44 microRNAs (miRNAs) participated in regulations of 21 interactional hub genes. In addition, 23 potential candidates were predicted for the treatment of COVID-19 and NSCLC. Conclusion: This study increased our understanding of pathophysiology and screened potential drugs for COVID-19 and NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenjie Zhuang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoying Zhong
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qianying Chen
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiqi Chen
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhanhua Liu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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Muhammad JS, Siddiqui R, Khan NA. COVID-19 and alcohol use disorder: putative differential gene expression patterns that might be associated with neurological complications. Hosp Pract (1995) 2022; 50:189-195. [PMID: 35686663 DOI: 10.1080/21548331.2022.2088183] [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: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several lines of evidence suggest that SARS-CoV-2 invasion of the central nervous system leads to meningitis and encephalopathy syndromes. Additionally, chronic alcoholics were found to be at a higher risk of developing mental health problems and serious neurological manifestations, if exposed to SARS-CoV-2 infection. METHODS Herein, we studied RNA seq data from alcoholics' brain tissue and COVID-19 patient's brain tissue to identify the common differentially expressed genes. RESULTS Overlap analysis depicted the expression of seven genes (GHRL, SLN, VGF, IL1RL1, NPTX2, PDYN, and RPRML) that were significantly upregulated in both groups. Along with these, protein-protein interaction analysis revealed 10 other key molecules with strong interactions with the aforementioned genes. CONCLUSIONS Taken together with the functional effect of these genes, we suggest a strong molecular link between COVID-19-induced severities and neurological impairment in patients suffering from alcohol abuse disorder. These findings emphasize the importance of identifying chronic alcoholism as a risk factor for developing cognitive and memory impairment in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jibran Sualeh Muhammad
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
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19
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Makhoba XH, Makumire S. The capture of host cell’s resources: The role of heat shock proteins and polyamines in SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19) pathway to viral infection. Biomol Concepts 2022; 13:220-229. [DOI: 10.1515/bmc-2022-0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The exposure of organisms and cells to unfavorable conditions such as increased temperature, antibiotics, reactive oxygen species, and viruses could lead to protein misfolding and cell death. The increased production of proteins such as heat shock proteins (HSPs) and polyamines has been linked to protein misfolding sequestration, thus maintaining, enhancing, and regulating the cellular system. For example, heat shock protein 40 (Hsp40) works hand in hand with Hsp70 and Hsp90 to successfully assist the newly synthesized proteins in folding properly. On the other hand, polyamines such as putrescine, spermidine, and spermine have been widely studied and reported to keep cells viable under harsh conditions, which are also involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and growth. Polyamines are found in all living organisms, including humans and viruses. Some organisms have developed a mechanism to hijack mammalian host cell machinery for their benefit like viruses need polyamines for infection. Therefore, the role of HSPs and polyamines in SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) viral infection, how these molecules could delay the effectiveness of the current treatment in the market, and how COVID-19 relies on the host molecules for its successful infection are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xolani Henry Makhoba
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Fort Hare , Alice Campus , Alice , South Africa
| | - Stanley Makumire
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Structural Biology Research Unit, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town , Observatory 7925 , South Africa
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20
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Caldera-Crespo LA, Paidas MJ, Roy S, Schulman CI, Kenyon NS, Daunert S, Jayakumar AR. Experimental Models of COVID-19. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:792584. [PMID: 35096645 PMCID: PMC8791197 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.792584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is the most consequential pandemic of the 21st century. Since the earliest stage of the 2019-2020 epidemic, animal models have been useful in understanding the etiopathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection and rapid development of vaccines/drugs to prevent, treat or eradicate SARS-CoV-2 infection. Early SARS-CoV-1 research using immortalized in-vitro cell lines have aided in understanding different cells and receptors needed for SARS-CoV-2 infection and, due to their ability to be easily manipulated, continue to broaden our understanding of COVID-19 disease in in-vivo models. The scientific community determined animal models as the most useful models which could demonstrate viral infection, replication, transmission, and spectrum of illness as seen in human populations. Until now, there have not been well-described animal models of SARS-CoV-2 infection although transgenic mouse models (i.e. mice with humanized ACE2 receptors with humanized receptors) have been proposed. Additionally, there are only limited facilities (Biosafety level 3 laboratories) available to contribute research to aid in eventually exterminating SARS-CoV-2 infection around the world. This review summarizes the most successful animal models of SARS-CoV-2 infection including studies in Non-Human Primates (NHPs) which were found to be susceptible to infection and transmitted the virus similarly to humans (e.g., Rhesus macaques, Cynomolgus, and African Green Monkeys), and animal models that do not require Biosafety level 3 laboratories (e.g., Mouse Hepatitis Virus models of COVID-19, Ferret model, Syrian Hamster model). Balancing safety, mimicking human COVID-19 and robustness of the animal model, the Murine Hepatitis Virus-1 Murine model currently represents the most optimal model for SARS-CoV-2/COVID19 research. Exploring future animal models will aid researchers/scientists in discovering the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection and in identifying therapies to prevent or treat COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis A Caldera-Crespo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- St. George's University Graduate Medical Education Program, University Centre Grenada, West Indies, Grenada
| | - Michael J Paidas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Sabita Roy
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Carl I Schulman
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Norma Sue Kenyon
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Diabetes Research Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Sylvia Daunert
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Dr. JT Macdonald Foundation Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- University of Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Arumugam R Jayakumar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
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21
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Li S, Zhou W, Li D, Pan T, Guo J, Zou H, Tian Z, Li K, Xu J, Li X, Li Y. Comprehensive characterization of human–virus protein-protein interactions reveals disease comorbidities and potential antiviral drugs. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:1244-1253. [PMID: 35356543 PMCID: PMC8924640 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Comprehensive collection of experimentally verified human–virus PPIs. Viral proteins interact with cell cycle and immune-related genes. Viral proteins are likely to interact with central human proteins in PPI network. Network analysis reveals associations between viral infections and human diseases. Potential anti-viral drugs are prioritized based on interactome analysis.
The protein-protein interactions (PPIs) between human and viruses play important roles in viral infection and host immune responses. Rapid accumulation of experimentally validated human–virus PPIs provides an unprecedented opportunity to investigate the regulatory pattern of viral infection. However, we are still lack of knowledge about the regulatory patterns of human–virus interactions. We collected 27,293 experimentally validated human–virus PPIs, covering 8 virus families, 140 viral proteins and 6059 human proteins. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that the viral interacting proteins were likely to be enriched in cell cycle and immune-related pathways. Moreover, we analysed the topological features of the viral interacting proteins and found that they were likely to locate in central regions of human PPI network. Based on network proximity analyses of diseases genes and human–virus interactions in the human interactome, we revealed the associations between complex diseases and viral infections. Network analysis also implicated potential antiviral drugs that were further validated by text mining. Finally, we presented the Human–Virus Protein-Protein Interaction database (HVPPI, http://bio-bigdata.hrbmu.edu.cn/HVPPI), that provides experimentally validated human–virus PPIs as well as seamlessly integrates online functional analysis tools. In summary, comprehensive understanding the regulatory pattern of human–virus interactome will provide novel insights into fundamental infectious mechanism discovery and new antiviral therapy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Information and Engineering, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
| | - Weiwei Zhou
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Donghao Li
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Tao Pan
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Information and Engineering, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Information and Engineering, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
| | - Haozhe Zou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Information and Engineering, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Zhanyu Tian
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Information and Engineering, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
| | - Kongning Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Information and Engineering, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
| | - Juan Xu
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
- Corresponding authors at: Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Information and Engineering, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China.
| | - Xia Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Information and Engineering, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China
- Corresponding authors at: Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Information and Engineering, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China.
| | - Yongsheng Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Information and Engineering, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
- Corresponding authors at: Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Information and Engineering, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China.
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22
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Ahmad S, Wen Y, Irudayaraj JMK. PFOA induces alteration in DNA methylation regulators and SARS-CoV-2 targets Ace2 and Tmprss2 in mouse lung tissues. Toxicol Rep 2021; 8:1892-1898. [PMID: 34853776 PMCID: PMC8620096 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2021.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a ubiquitous environmental toxicant from the Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) family has been implicated in toxicity of various organs. Several epidemiological studies have linked PFOA to different lung injuries and diseased conditions. However, the implication of PFOA in affecting epigenetic regulators and SARS-CoV-2 infection pathways in the lung are unknown. The present work explores the accumulation of PFOA in lungs and changes in mRNA expression of DNA methylation regulator genes DNA methyltransferases (Dnmts) and ten-eleven translocation (Tets) along with the membrane proteins angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (Ace2) and transmembrane Serine Protease 2 (Tmprss2) genes involved in the SARS-CoV-2 virus infection. CD1 mice were orally exposed to 5 and 20 mg/kg/day PFOA for 10 days and the lung tissues were analyzed using LCMS, qPCR, and pyrosequencing techniques. PFOA was shown to accumulate in the lung tissues and increase in a dose-dependent manner. Dnmts and Tets were significantly downregulated upon at least one of the PFOA dosing concentration, whereas Ace2 and Tmprss2 show significant increase in their expression level. Further, CpG islands in the promotor region of Tmprss2 exhibited significant hypomethylation in PFOA treated groups, which supports its increased gene expression level. Current study reveals the implication of PFOA induced DNA methylation changes in lungs and their possible role in upregulation of Ace2 and Tmprss2. It is possible that increased expression of these membrane receptors due to PFOA exposure can lead to higher susceptibility of SARS-CoV-2 infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Ahmad
- Biomedical Research Center in Mills Breast Cancer Institute, Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Yi Wen
- Biomedical Research Center in Mills Breast Cancer Institute, Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Joseph Maria Kumar Irudayaraj
- Biomedical Research Center in Mills Breast Cancer Institute, Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Micro and Nanotechnology Laboratory, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
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23
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Muhammad JS, Siddiqui R, Khan NA. SARS-CoV-2: Can sunlight exposure reduce the risk of developing severe consequences of COVID-19? Comput Biol Chem 2021; 96:107602. [PMID: 34823125 PMCID: PMC8604571 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2021.107602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Herein it is proposed that sufficient exposure to sunlight (UVB) modulates host gene expression, offering protection against severe consequences of COVID-19. This could be in addition to sunlight (UVB)-mediated protection by directly inactivating the virus and limiting the viral load. It is suggested that inhibition of CCR2, DPP9, HSPA1L, IFNAR2, OAS1, and TYK2 may, in part, explain UVB-mediated protection against severe consequences of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
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24
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Kgatle MM, Lawal IO, Mashabela G, Boshomane TMG, Koatale PC, Mahasha PW, Ndlovu H, Vorster M, Rodrigues HG, Zeevaart JR, Gordon S, Moura-Alves P, Sathekge MM. COVID-19 Is a Multi-Organ Aggressor: Epigenetic and Clinical Marks. Front Immunol 2021; 12:752380. [PMID: 34691068 PMCID: PMC8531724 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.752380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The progression of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), resulting from a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, may be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Several viruses hijack the host genome machinery for their own advantage and survival, and similar phenomena might occur upon SARS-CoV-2 infection. Severe cases of COVID-19 may be driven by metabolic and epigenetic driven mechanisms, including DNA methylation and histone/chromatin alterations. These epigenetic phenomena may respond to enhanced viral replication and mediate persistent long-term infection and clinical phenotypes associated with severe COVID-19 cases and fatalities. Understanding the epigenetic events involved, and their clinical significance, may provide novel insights valuable for the therapeutic control and management of the COVID-19 pandemic. This review highlights different epigenetic marks potentially associated with COVID-19 development, clinical manifestation, and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mankgopo Magdeline Kgatle
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Ismaheel Opeyemi Lawal
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Gabriel Mashabela
- SAMRC/NHLS/UCT Molecular Mycobacteriology Research Unit, DSI/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research, Department of Pathology and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tebatso Moshoeu Gillian Boshomane
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
- Nuclear and Oncology Division, AXIM Medical (Pty), Midrand
| | - Palesa Caroline Koatale
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Phetole Walter Mahasha
- Precision Medicine and SAMRC Genomic Centre, Grants, Innovation, and Product Development (GIPD) Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Honest Ndlovu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mariza Vorster
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Hosana Gomes Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Nutrients and Tissue Repair, School of Applied Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Jan Rijn Zeevaart
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
- South African Nuclear Energy Corporation, Radiochemistry and NuMeRI PreClinical Imaging Facility, Mahikeng, South Africa
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Siamon Gordon
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Pedro Moura-Alves
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Mike Machaba Sathekge
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI), Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria & Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
- SAMRC/NHLS/UCT Molecular Mycobacteriology Research Unit, DSI/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research, Department of Pathology and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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25
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Muhammad JS, Siddiqui R, Khan NA. COVID-19: Is There a Link between Alcohol Abuse and SARS-CoV-2-Induced Severe Neurological Manifestations? ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2021; 4:1024-1025. [PMID: 33860221 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.1c00073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
For the first time, it is shown that severe COVID-19 associated genes (CCR2, DPP9, HSPA1L, TYK2, OAS1, ACE2, and TMPRSS2) were also upregulated in the brain tissue of chronic alcoholics. It is proposed that chronic alcohol abuse should be considered as an important factor in COVID-19-associated neurological complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jibran Sualeh Muhammad
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
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26
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Muhammad JS, Siddiqui R, Khan NA. COVID-19: Does SARS-CoV-2 Modulate Acanthamoeba Epigenetics to Enhance Survival and Transmission in the Environment? ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2021; 4:1021-1023. [PMID: 33860220 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.1c00059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
For the first time, we propose the role of epigenetic mechanisms in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 survival inside Acanthamoeba and possible transmission via airborne cysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jibran Sualeh Muhammad
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
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