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Desconsi D, Araujo JP, Furtado MD, Pimenta RA, Zani AV. Relationship between gastrointestinal symptoms and COVID-19 infection in the pediatric population: a scoping review. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2024; 58:e20230365. [PMID: 38743953 PMCID: PMC11126237 DOI: 10.1590/1980-220x-reeusp-2023-0365en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To map the evidence in the literature about the relationship between gastrointestinal symptoms and COVID-19 in the pediatric population. METHOD This is a scoping review following the recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute and PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR): Checklist and Explanation. The search was carried out on the following bases: Embase, Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, LILACS, CINAHL, Scielo, Web of Science and Virtual Health Library Portal, between July and August 2023. Original studies available in full, in any language, were included. RESULTS Ten studies were chosen that pointed to three premises: (1) the ACE2 receptor is found in the epithelial cells of the gastrointestinal tract; (2) gastrointestinal symptoms are mediated by stress and infection is justified by the gut-brain axis; (3) it develops the process of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in children, affecting the gastrointestinal tract. CONCLUSION The synthesis of evidence provided three assumptions which guide the origin of gastrointestinal symptoms. The identification of gastrointestinal symptoms in children affected by COVID-19 can assist in the clinical approach and management of care and treatments.
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Franks ZG, Nandakumar K, Santhanam L, Lester L, Walsh JM, Dalesio NM. ACE2 and TAS2R38 receptor expression in pediatric and adult patients in the nasal and oral cavity. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2024; 9:e1207. [PMID: 38362187 PMCID: PMC10866583 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.1207] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate differences in angiotensin-converting-enzyme-2 (ACE2) and bitter taste receptor (TAS2R38) expression between patient age groups and comorbidities to characterize the pathophysiology of coronavirus 19(COVID-19) pandemic. ACE2 is the receptor implicated to facilitate SARS-CoV-2 infections and levels of expression may correlate to the severity of COVID-19 infection. TAS2R38 has many non-gustatory roles in disease, with some evidence of severe COVID-19 disease in certain receptor phenotypes. Methods We conducted a prospective cohort study and collected nasal and lingual tissue from healthy pediatric (n = 22) and adult (n = 25) patients undergoing general anesthesia for elective procedures. RNA isolation and qPCR were performed with primers targeting ACE2 and TAS2R38. Results A total of 25 adult (52% male; 44% obese) and 22 pediatric (50% male; 36% obese) patients were enrolled, pediatric tissue had 43% more nasal ACE2 RNA expression than adults with a median fold change of 0.69 (IQR 0.37, 0.98) in adults and 0.99 (IQR 0.74, 1.43) in children (p < .05). There were no differences between the age groups in ACE2 expression of lingual tissue (p = .14) or TAS2R38 expression collected from either nasal (p = 049) or lingual tissue (p = .49). Stratifying for obesity yielded similar differences between nasal ACE2 expression between adults and children with median fold change of 0.56 (IQR 0.32, 0.87) in adults and 1.0 (IQR 0.82, 1.52) in children (p < .05). Conclusions ACE2 receptor expression is higher in nasal tissue collected from children compared to adults, suggesting COVID-19 infectivity is more complicated than ACE2 and TAS2R38 mRNA expression. Level of Evidence NA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zechariah G. Franks
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck SurgeryJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Kavitha Nandakumar
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Lakshmi Santhanam
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Laeben Lester
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Jonathan M. Walsh
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck SurgeryJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Nicholas M. Dalesio
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck SurgeryJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
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Demyashkin G, Gorokhov K, Shchekin V, Vadyukhin M, Matevosyan A, Rudavina A, Pilipchuk A, Pilipchuk A, Kochetkova S, Atiakshin D, Shegay P, Kaprin A. Features of Appendix and the Characteristics of Appendicitis Development in Children with COVID-19. Biomedicines 2024; 12:312. [PMID: 38397914 PMCID: PMC10886907 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on the subject of the influence of SARS-CoV-2 mechanisms on human homeostasis remains an actual problem. Particular interest is the study of pathomorphological changes in the appendix in children with COVID-19. OBJECTIVES Aim of this study: morphological and molecular biological evaluation of the appendix in children of different age groups with COVID-19. METHODS Groups were formed on the basis of anamnestic, clinical, and morphological data: I (n = 42; aged 2 to 18 years, average age-10.8 ± 4.79)-with an established clinical diagnosis: coronavirus infection (COVID-19; PCR+); II (n = 55; aged 2 to 18 years, average age-9.7 ± 4.77)-with a confirmed clinical diagnosis of acute appendicitis; collected before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2017-2019; and III (n = 38; aged 2 to 18 years, average age-10.3 ± 4.62)-the control group. Histological and immunohistochemical studies were conducted using primary antibodies to CD3, CD4, CD68, CD163, CD20, and CD138 and to pro-inflammatory (IL-1, IL-6) and anti-inflammatory (IL-4, IL-10) cytokines. RESULTS In most samples of appendixes in children with COVID-19, signs of destructive phlegmonous-ulcerative and gangrenous appendicitis were discovered. An increase in CD3+, CD4+, CD68+, CD163+, and CD20+ CD138+ immunocompetent cells was found in the appendix of children with COVID-19. As well, there was an increase in pro-inflammatory (IL-1, IL-6) and anti-inflammatory (IL-4, IL-10) cytokines. CONCLUSIONS The aforementioned pathological and immunohistochemical changes were more pronounced in the group of children aged 6-12 years (childhood).
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Affiliation(s)
- Grigory Demyashkin
- Department of Pathomorphology, National Medical Research Centre of Radiology, Ministry of Health of Russia, 249036 Obninsk, Russia; (K.G.); (P.S.); (A.K.)
- Laboratory of Histology and Immunohistochemistry, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119048 Moscow, Russia; (G.D.); (M.V.); (A.M.); (A.R.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (S.K.)
| | - Konstantin Gorokhov
- Department of Pathomorphology, National Medical Research Centre of Radiology, Ministry of Health of Russia, 249036 Obninsk, Russia; (K.G.); (P.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Vladimir Shchekin
- Laboratory of Histology and Immunohistochemistry, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119048 Moscow, Russia; (G.D.); (M.V.); (A.M.); (A.R.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (S.K.)
| | - Matvey Vadyukhin
- Laboratory of Histology and Immunohistochemistry, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119048 Moscow, Russia; (G.D.); (M.V.); (A.M.); (A.R.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (S.K.)
| | - Artem Matevosyan
- Laboratory of Histology and Immunohistochemistry, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119048 Moscow, Russia; (G.D.); (M.V.); (A.M.); (A.R.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (S.K.)
| | - Arina Rudavina
- Laboratory of Histology and Immunohistochemistry, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119048 Moscow, Russia; (G.D.); (M.V.); (A.M.); (A.R.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (S.K.)
| | - Anna Pilipchuk
- Laboratory of Histology and Immunohistochemistry, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119048 Moscow, Russia; (G.D.); (M.V.); (A.M.); (A.R.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (S.K.)
| | - Alina Pilipchuk
- Laboratory of Histology and Immunohistochemistry, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119048 Moscow, Russia; (G.D.); (M.V.); (A.M.); (A.R.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (S.K.)
| | - Svetlana Kochetkova
- Laboratory of Histology and Immunohistochemistry, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119048 Moscow, Russia; (G.D.); (M.V.); (A.M.); (A.R.); (A.P.); (A.P.); (S.K.)
| | - Dmitrii Atiakshin
- Research and Educational Resource Center for Immunophenotyping, Digital Spatial Profiling and Ultrastructural Analysis Innovative Technologies, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), 117198 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Petr Shegay
- Department of Pathomorphology, National Medical Research Centre of Radiology, Ministry of Health of Russia, 249036 Obninsk, Russia; (K.G.); (P.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Andrey Kaprin
- Department of Pathomorphology, National Medical Research Centre of Radiology, Ministry of Health of Russia, 249036 Obninsk, Russia; (K.G.); (P.S.); (A.K.)
- Research and Educational Resource Center for Immunophenotyping, Digital Spatial Profiling and Ultrastructural Analysis Innovative Technologies, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), 117198 Moscow, Russia;
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Choi CY, Gadhave K, Villano J, Pekosz A, Mao X, Jia H. Generation and characterization of a humanized ACE2 mouse model to study long-term impacts of SARS-CoV-2 infection. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29349. [PMID: 38185937 PMCID: PMC10783855 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Although the COVID-19 pandemic has officially ended, the persistent challenge of long-COVID or post-acute COVID sequelae (PASC) continues to impact societies globally, highlighting the urgent need for ongoing research into its mechanisms and therapeutic approaches. Our team has recently developed a novel humanized ACE2 mouse model (hACE2ki) designed explicitly for long-COVID/PASC research. This model exhibits human ACE2 expression in tissue and cell-specific patterns akin to mouse Ace2. When we exposed young adult hACE2ki mice (6 weeks old) to various SARS-CoV-2 lineages, including WA, Delta, and Omicron, at a dose of 5 × 105 PFU/mouse via nasal instillation, the mice demonstrated distinctive phenotypes characterized by differences in viral load in the lung, trachea, and nasal turbinate, weight loss, and changes in pro-inflammatory cytokines and immune cell profiles in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Notably, no mortality was observed in this age group. Further, to assess the model's relevance for long-COVID studies, we investigated tau protein pathologies, which are linked to Alzheimer's disease, in the brains of these mice post SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our findings revealed the accumulation and longitudinal propagation of tau, confirming the potential of our hACE2ki mouse model for preclinical studies of long-COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Yong Choi
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School, of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Kundlik Gadhave
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jason Villano
- Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Andrew Pekosz
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Xiaobo Mao
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Department of Material Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Hongpeng Jia
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School, of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Zaa CA, Espitia C, Reyes-Barrera KL, An Z, Velasco-Velázquez MA. Neuroprotective Agents with Therapeutic Potential for COVID-19. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1585. [PMID: 38002267 PMCID: PMC10669388 DOI: 10.3390/biom13111585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 patients can exhibit a wide range of clinical manifestations affecting various organs and systems. Neurological symptoms have been reported in COVID-19 patients, both during the acute phase of the illness and in cases of long-term COVID. Moderate symptoms include ageusia, anosmia, altered mental status, and cognitive impairment, and in more severe cases can manifest as ischemic cerebrovascular disease and encephalitis. In this narrative review, we delve into the reported neurological symptoms associated with COVID-19, as well as the underlying mechanisms contributing to them. These mechanisms include direct damage to neurons, inflammation, oxidative stress, and protein misfolding. We further investigate the potential of small molecules from natural products to offer neuroprotection in models of neurodegenerative diseases. Through our analysis, we discovered that flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and other natural compounds exhibit neuroprotective effects by modulating signaling pathways known to be impacted by COVID-19. Some of these compounds also directly target SARS-CoV-2 viral replication. Therefore, molecules of natural origin show promise as potential agents to prevent or mitigate nervous system damage in COVID-19 patients. Further research and the evaluation of different stages of the disease are warranted to explore their potential benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- César A. Zaa
- School of Biological Sciences, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM), Lima 15081, Peru;
| | - Clara Espitia
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Research, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico; (C.E.); (K.L.R.-B.)
| | - Karen L. Reyes-Barrera
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Research, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico; (C.E.); (K.L.R.-B.)
| | - Zhiqiang An
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Marco A. Velasco-Velázquez
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico
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Vernia F, Ashktorab H, Cesaro N, Monaco S, Faenza S, Sgamma E, Viscido A, Latella G. COVID-19 and Gastrointestinal Tract: From Pathophysiology to Clinical Manifestations. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1709. [PMID: 37893427 PMCID: PMC10608106 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59101709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Background: Since its first report in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, COVID-19 has become a pandemic, affecting millions of people worldwide. Although the virus primarily affects the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal symptoms are also common. The aim of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of gastrointestinal COVID-19. Methods: We conducted a systematic electronic search of English literature up to January 2023 using Medline, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library, focusing on papers that analyzed the role of SARS-CoV-2 in the gastrointestinal tract. Results: Our review highlights that SARS-CoV-2 directly infects the gastrointestinal tract and can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain, anorexia, loss of taste, and increased liver enzymes. These symptoms result from mucosal barrier damage, inflammation, and changes in the microbiota composition. The exact mechanism of how the virus overcomes the acid gastric environment and leads to the intestinal damage is still being studied. Conclusions: Although vaccination has increased the prevalence of less severe symptoms, the long-term interaction with SARS-CoV-2 remains a concern. Understanding the interplay between SARS-CoV-2 and the gastrointestinal tract is essential for future management of the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Vernia
- Gastroenterology Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Hassan Ashktorab
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Division, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC 20060, USA
| | - Nicola Cesaro
- Gastroenterology Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Sabrina Monaco
- Gastroenterology Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Susanna Faenza
- Gastroenterology Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Emanuele Sgamma
- Gastroenterology Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Angelo Viscido
- Gastroenterology Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Giovanni Latella
- Gastroenterology Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
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Cortese P, Amato F, Davino A, De Franchis R, Esposito S, Zollo I, Di Domenico M, Solito E, Zarrilli F, Gentile L, Cernera G, Castaldo G. The Immune Response to SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine in a Cohort of Family Pediatricians from Southern Italy. Cells 2023; 12:1447. [PMID: 37296568 PMCID: PMC10252549 DOI: 10.3390/cells12111447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In Italy, from January 2021, the Ministry of Health indicated a vaccination plan against COVID for frail patients and physicians based on a three-dose scheme. However, conflicting results have been reported on which biomarkers permit immunization assessment. We used several laboratory approaches (i.e., antibodies serum levels, flow cytometry analysis, and cytokines release by stimulated cells) to investigate the immune response in a cohort of 53 family pediatricians (FPs) at different times after the vaccine. We observed that the BNT162b2-mRNA vaccine induced a significant increase of specific antibodies after the third (booster) dose; however, the antibody titer was not predictive of the risk of developing the infection in the six months following the booster dose. The antigen stimulation of PBMC cells from subjects vaccinated with the third booster jab induced the increase of the activated T cells (i.e., CD4+ CD154+); the frequency of CD4+ CD154+ TNF-α+ cells, as well as the TNF-α secretion, was not modified, while we observed a trend of increase of IFN-γ secretion. Interestingly, the level of CD8+ IFN-γ+ (independently from antibody titer) was significantly increased after the third dose and predicts the risk of developing the infection in the six months following the booster jab. Such results may impact also other virus vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Cortese
- Federazione Italiana Medici Pediatri (FIMP), 80142 Naples, Italy; (P.C.); (A.D.); (R.D.F.)
| | - Felice Amato
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.A.); (I.Z.); (F.Z.); (G.C.)
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Scarl, 80131 Naples, Italy; (S.E.); (L.G.)
| | - Antonio Davino
- Federazione Italiana Medici Pediatri (FIMP), 80142 Naples, Italy; (P.C.); (A.D.); (R.D.F.)
| | - Raffaella De Franchis
- Federazione Italiana Medici Pediatri (FIMP), 80142 Naples, Italy; (P.C.); (A.D.); (R.D.F.)
| | - Speranza Esposito
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Scarl, 80131 Naples, Italy; (S.E.); (L.G.)
| | - Immacolata Zollo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.A.); (I.Z.); (F.Z.); (G.C.)
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Scarl, 80131 Naples, Italy; (S.E.); (L.G.)
| | - Marina Di Domenico
- Dipartimento di Medicina di Precisione, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Egle Solito
- Centre for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary Univesity, London E1 4NS, UK;
| | - Federica Zarrilli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.A.); (I.Z.); (F.Z.); (G.C.)
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Scarl, 80131 Naples, Italy; (S.E.); (L.G.)
| | - Laura Gentile
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Scarl, 80131 Naples, Italy; (S.E.); (L.G.)
| | - Gustavo Cernera
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.A.); (I.Z.); (F.Z.); (G.C.)
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Scarl, 80131 Naples, Italy; (S.E.); (L.G.)
| | - Giuseppe Castaldo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.A.); (I.Z.); (F.Z.); (G.C.)
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, Scarl, 80131 Naples, Italy; (S.E.); (L.G.)
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Bru S, González-Marrón A, Lidón-Moyano C, Carballar R, Martínez-Láinez JM, Pérez-Martín H, Fu M, Pérez-Ortuño R, Ballbè M, Pascual JA, Fernández E, Clotet J, Martínez-Sánchez JM. Determination of soluble angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 in saliva samples and its association with nicotine. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 216:114443. [PMID: 36195157 PMCID: PMC9527194 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) is the main receptor of the SARS-CoV-2. There is contradictory evidence on how the exposure to nicotine may module the concentration of soluble ACE2 (sACE2). The aim of this study was to assess the association between nicotine and sACE2 concentrations in saliva samples. METHODS Pooled analysis performed with data retrieved from two studies (n = 634 and n = 302). Geometric mean (GM) concentrations of sACE2, both total and relative to the total amount of protein in the sample, were compared according to sociodemographic variables and variables associated to nicotine. Multivariable linear regression models were fitted to explore the associations of sACE2 with nicotine adjusting for sex, age and body mass index. Spearman's rank-correlation coefficients were estimated between the concentrations of nicotine and cotinine, and pack-years, the concentration of relative sACE2 and the isoforms of sACE2. RESULTS We observed a significant increase of 0.108‰ and 0.087 ng/μl in the relative and absolute salivary sACE2 GM concentrations, respectively, between the lowest and highest nicotine levels. Similar results were observed for cotinine. These associations did not change in the multivariable linear models. There was a low correlation of nicotine and cotinine concentration with the concentration of relative salivary sACE2 (rs = 0.153 and rs = 0.132, respectively), pack-years (rs = 0.222 and rs = 0.235, respectively) and with the concentration of isoform 40 KDa (rs = 0.193 and rs = 0.140, respectively). CONCLUSION Salivary nicotine concentration seems to be limitedly associated with the concentration of sACE2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Bru
- Department of Basic Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat Del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adrián González-Marrón
- Group of Evaluation of Health Determinants and Health Policies, Department of Basic Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat Del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Lidón-Moyano
- Group of Evaluation of Health Determinants and Health Policies, Department of Basic Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat Del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Reyes Carballar
- Department of Basic Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat Del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan Marc Martínez-Láinez
- Department of Basic Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat Del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Hipólito Pérez-Martín
- Group of Evaluation of Health Determinants and Health Policies, Department of Basic Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat Del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marcela Fu
- Tobacco Control Unit, Catalan Institute of Oncology - ICO, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tobacco Control, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Tobacco Control Research Group, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain
| | - Raúl Pérez-Ortuño
- Group of Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience, Neurosciences Programme, IMIM (Hospital Del Mar Medical Research Institute), Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montse Ballbè
- Tobacco Control Unit, Catalan Institute of Oncology - ICO, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tobacco Control, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Tobacco Control Research Group, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain; Addictions Unit, Institute of Neurosciences, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jose A Pascual
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esteve Fernández
- Tobacco Control Unit, Catalan Institute of Oncology - ICO, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tobacco Control, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; Tobacco Control Research Group, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute - IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain; School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain
| | - Josep Clotet
- Department of Basic Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat Del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Jose M Martínez-Sánchez
- Group of Evaluation of Health Determinants and Health Policies, Department of Basic Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat Del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain.
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9
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Nekrasova LA, Shmakova AA, Samokhodskaya LM, Kirillova KI, Stoyanova SS, Mershina EA, Nazarova GB, Rubina KA, Semina EV, Kamalov AA. The Association of PLAUR Genotype and Soluble suPAR Serum Level with COVID-19-Related Lung Damage Severity. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416210. [PMID: 36555850 PMCID: PMC9785175 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncovering the risk factors for acute respiratory disease coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) severity may help to provide a valuable tool for early patient stratification and proper treatment implementation, improving the patient outcome and lowering the burden on the healthcare system. Here we report the results of a single-center retrospective cohort study on 151 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2)-infected symptomatic hospitalized adult patients. We assessed the association of several blood test measurements, soluble urokinase receptor (uPAR) serum level and specific single nucleotide polymorphisms of ACE (I/D), NOS3 (rs2070744, rs1799983), SERPINE1 (rs1799768), PLAU (rs2227564) and PLAUR (rs344781, rs2302524) genes, with the disease severity classified by the percentage of lung involvement on computerized tomography scans. Our findings reveal that the T/C genotype of PLAUR rs2302524 was independently associated with a less severe lung damage (odds ratio 0.258 [0.071-0.811]). Along with high C-reactive protein, fibrinogen and soluble uPAR serum levels turned out to be independently associated with more severe lung damage in COVID-19 patients. The identified factors may be further employed as predictors of a possibly severe COVID-19 clinical course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludmila A. Nekrasova
- Medical Scientific and Educational Centre, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna A. Shmakova
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, 117334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Larisa M. Samokhodskaya
- Medical Scientific and Educational Centre, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Karina I. Kirillova
- Medical Scientific and Educational Centre, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Simona S. Stoyanova
- Medical Scientific and Educational Centre, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena A. Mershina
- Medical Scientific and Educational Centre, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Galina B. Nazarova
- Medical Scientific and Educational Centre, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Kseniya A. Rubina
- Faculty of Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ekaterina V. Semina
- Medical Scientific and Educational Centre, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Experimental Cardiology, National Medical Research Centre of Cardiology Named after Academician E.I. Chazov, 121552 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence:
| | - Armais A. Kamalov
- Medical Scientific and Educational Centre, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
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10
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Bacorn M, Romero-Soto HN, Levy S, Chen Q, Hourigan SK. The Gut Microbiome of Children during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122460. [PMID: 36557713 PMCID: PMC9783902 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122460] [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: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome has been shown to play a critical role in maintaining a healthy state. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiome is involved in modulating disease severity and potentially contributes to long-term outcomes in adults with COVID-19. Due to children having a significantly lower risk of severe illness and limited sample availability, much less is known about the role of the gut microbiome in children with COVID-19. It is well recognized that the developing gut microbiome of children differs from that of adults, but it is unclear if this difference contributes to the different clinical presentations and complications. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge of the gut microbiome in children with COVID-19, with gut microbiome dysbiosis being found in pediatric COVID-19 but specific taxa change often differing from those described in adults. Additionally, we discuss possible mechanisms of how the gut microbiome may mediate the presentation and complications of COVID-19 in children and the potential role for microbial therapeutics.
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11
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Zhu Z, Zhao Z, Chen X, Chu Z, He Y, Tan Y, Zhou J, Tang C. Effects of growth hormone/estrogen/androgen on COVID-19-type proinflammatory responses in normal human lung epithelial BEAS-2B cells. BMC Mol Cell Biol 2022; 23:42. [PMID: 36175845 PMCID: PMC9520119 DOI: 10.1186/s12860-022-00442-5] [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: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 is a disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, which can cause mild to serious infections in humans. We aimed to explore the effect of growth hormone (GH)/estrogen/androgen in normal human lung epithelial BEAS-2B cells on COVID-19-type proinflammatory responses. Methods A BEAS-2B COVID-19-like proinflammatory cell model was constructed. After that, the cells were treated with GH, 17β-estradiol (E2), and testosterone (Tes) for 24 h. CCK-8 assays were utilized to evaluate cell viability. The mRNA expression of ACE2, AGTR1, TMRRSS2, and ISG15 and the protein expression of ACE2, AGTR1, TMRRSS2, and ISG15 were measured by qRT‒PCR and Western blotting, respectively. ELISAs were performed to determine IL-6, MCP-1, MDA and SOD expression. Flow cytometry was used to measure ROS levels. Finally, MAPK/NF-κB pathway-related factor expression was evaluated. Results The COVID-19-type proinflammatory model was successfully constructed, and 1000 ng/mL RBD treatment for 24 h was selected as the condition for the model group for subsequent experiments. After RBD treatment, cell viability decreased, the mRNA expression of ACE2, AGTR1, TMRRSS2, and ISG15 and the protein expression of ACE2, AGTR1, TMRRSS2, and ISG15 increased, IL-6, MCP-1, MDA and ROS levels increased, and MDA levels decreased. The mRNA levels of MAPK14 and RELA increased, but the protein levels did not change significantly. In addition, phospho-MAPK14 and phospho-RELA protein levels were also increased. Among the tested molecules, E2 had the most pronounced effect, followed by GH, while Tes showed the opposite effect. Conclusion GH/E2 alleviated inflammation in a COVID-19-type proinflammatory model, but Tes showed the opposite effect.
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12
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Potential SARS-CoV-2 Susceptibility of Cetaceans Stranded along the Italian Coastline. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11101096. [PMID: 36297153 PMCID: PMC9607105 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11101096] [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: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to marine mammals' demonstrated susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2, based upon the homology level of their angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) viral receptor with the human one, alongside the global SARS-CoV-2 occurrence and fecal contamination of the river and marine ecosystems, SARS-CoV-2 infection may be plausibly expected to occur also in cetaceans, with special emphasis on inshore species like bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Moreover, based on immune and inflammatory responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans, macrophages could also play an important role in antiviral defense mechanisms. In order to provide a more in-depth insight into SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility in marine mammals, we evaluated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 and the expression of ACE2 and the pan-macrophage marker CD68. Aliquots of tissue samples, belonging to cetaceans stranded along the Italian coastline during 2020-2021, were collected for SARS-CoV-2 analysis by real-time PCR (RT-PCRT) (N = 43) and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) (N = 59); thirty-two aliquots of pulmonary tissue sample (N = 17 Tursiops truncatus, N = 15 Stenella coeruleoalba) available at the Mediterranean Marine Mammal Tissue Bank (MMMTB) of the University of Padua (Legnaro, Padua, Italy) were analyzed to investigate ACE2 expression by IHC. In addition, ACE2 and CD68 were also investigated by Double-Labeling Immunofluorescence (IF) Confocal Laser Microscopy. No SARS-CoV-2 positivity was found in samples analyzed for the survey while ACE2 protein was detected in the lower respiratory tract albeit heterogeneously for age, gender/sex, and species, suggesting that ACE2 expression can vary between different lung regions and among individuals. Finally, double IF analysis showed elevated colocalization of ACE2 and CD68 in macrophages only when an evident inflammatory reaction was present, such as in human SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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13
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Castaldo A, D’Anna C, Gelzo M, Giannattasio A, Maglione M, Muzzica S, Raia M, Scalia G, Tripodi L, Castaldo G, Tipo V, Grieco D, Grieco M. Immunophenotyping of peripheral blood cells allows to discriminate MIS-C and Kawasaki disease. TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 7:22. [PMID: 36093039 PMCID: PMC9440857 DOI: 10.1186/s41231-022-00128-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathogenesis of the novel described multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and Kawasaki disease (KD) is still debated as it is not clear if they are the same or different nosological entities. However, for both the diseases a rapid and unequivocal diagnosis is mandatory to start the therapy before the onset of severe complications. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the white cell populations in MIS-C and KD as potential markers to discriminate between the two diseases. METHODS We studied white cell populations by flow cytometry in 46 MIS-C and 28 KD patients in comparison to 70 age-matched healthy children. RESULTS MIS-C patients had a significant lymphopenia that involved both B and T populations while KD patients showed a significant neutrophilia and thrombocythemia. Granulocyte/lymphocyte ratio helped to diagnose both MIS-C and KD with a high diagnostic sensitivity, while a multivariate analysis of granulocyte and T lymphocyte number contributed to discriminate between the two diseases. CONCLUSIONS The relevant lymphopenia observed in MIS-C patients suggests that the disease would be a post-infectious sequel of COVID-19 immunologically amplified by a massive cytokine release, while the significant neutrophilia and thrombocythemia observed in KD confirmed that the disorder has the genesis of a systemic vasculitis. The analysis of a panel of circulating cells may help to early diagnose and to discriminate between the two diseases. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s41231-022-00128-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Castaldo
- Dipartimento Di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Sezione Di Pediatria, Università Di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carolina D’Anna
- Dipartimento Di Emergenza, AORN Santobono-Pausilipon, Naples, Italy
| | - Monica Gelzo
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, scarl, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento Di Medicina Molecolare E Biotecnologie Mediche, Università Di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Marco Maglione
- Dipartimento Di Emergenza, AORN Santobono-Pausilipon, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Muzzica
- Dipartimento Di Emergenza, AORN Santobono-Pausilipon, Naples, Italy
| | - Maddalena Raia
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, scarl, Naples, Italy
| | - Giulia Scalia
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, scarl, Naples, Italy
| | - Lorella Tripodi
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, scarl, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Castaldo
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, scarl, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento Di Medicina Molecolare E Biotecnologie Mediche, Università Di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Tipo
- Dipartimento Di Emergenza, AORN Santobono-Pausilipon, Naples, Italy
| | - Domenico Grieco
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, scarl, Naples, Italy
| | - Michela Grieco
- Dipartimento Di Emergenza, AORN Santobono-Pausilipon, Naples, Italy
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14
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Gastrointestinal Involvement in SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Viruses 2022; 14:v14061188. [PMID: 35746659 PMCID: PMC9228950 DOI: 10.3390/v14061188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has evolved into a virus that primarily results in mild or asymptomatic disease, making its transmission more challenging to control. In addition to the respiratory tract, SARS-CoV-2 also infects the digestive tract. Some gastrointestinal symptoms occur with or before respiratory symptoms in patients with COVID-19. Respiratory infections are known to cause intestinal immune impairment and gastrointestinal symptoms. When the intestine is inflamed, cytokines affect the lung immune response and inflammation through blood circulation. The gastrointestinal microbiome may be a modifiable factor in determining the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and disease severity. The development of oral SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidates and the maintenance of gut microbiota profiles may contribute to the early control of COVID-19 outbreaks. To this end, this review summarizes information on the gastrointestinal complications caused by SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV-2 infection, the gastrointestinal–lung axis immune response, potential control strategies for oral vaccine candidates and maintaining intestinal microbiota homeostasis.
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15
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Martínez-Briseño D, Pérez-Padilla R, Fernández-Plata R, Castillejos-López M, Higuera-Iglesias AL. El impacto de la altitud en las tasas de mortalidad por COVID-19 en México. Arch Bronconeumol 2022; 58:830-833. [PMID: 35550307 PMCID: PMC9026948 DOI: 10.1016/j.arbres.2022.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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16
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Khitan ZJ, Chin KV, Sodhi K, Kheetan M, Alsanani A, Shapiro JI. Gut microbiome and diet in populations with obesity: Role of the Na+/K+-ATPase transporter signaling in severe COVID-19. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2022; 30:869-873. [PMID: 35048549 PMCID: PMC8957587 DOI: 10.1002/oby.23387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The triad of obesity, a high-protein diet from animal sources, and disturbed gut microbiota have been linked to poor clinical outcomes in patients with COVID-19. In this report, the effect of oxidative stress resulting from the Na+ /K+ -ATPase transporter signaling cascade is explored as a driver of this poor clinical outcome. METHODS Protein-protein interactions with the SARS-CoV-2 proteome were identified from the interactome data for Na+ /K+ -transporting ATPase subunit α-1 (ATP1A1), epidermal growth factor receptor, and ERB-B2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2, using the curated data from the BioGRID Database of Protein Interactions. Data for the gene expression pattern of inflammatory response were from the Gene Expression Omnibus database for cardiomyocytes post SARS-CoV-2 infection (number GSE151879). RESULTS The ATP1A1 subunit of the Na+ /K+ -ATPase transporter is targeted by multiple SARS-CoV-2 proteins. Furthermore, receptor proteins associated with inflammatory response, including epidermal growth factor receptor and ERB-B2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (which interact with ATP1A1), are also targeted by some SARS-CoV-2 proteins. This heightened interaction likely triggers a cytokine release that increases the severity of the viral infection in individuals with obesity. CONCLUSIONS The similarities between the effects of SARS-CoV-2 proteins and indoxyl sulphate on the Na+ /K+ -ATPase transporter signaling cascade suggest the possibility of an augmentation of gene changes seen with COVID-19 infection that can result in a hyperinduction of cytokine release in individuals with obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeid J. Khitan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, West Virginia, United States
| | - Khew-Voon Chin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, West Virginia, United States
| | - Komal Sodhi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, West Virginia, United States
| | - Murad Kheetan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, West Virginia, United States
| | - Ahlim Alsanani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, West Virginia, United States
| | - Joseph I. Shapiro
- Department of Internal Medicine, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, West Virginia, United States
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17
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Why Does the Severity of COVID-19 Differ With Age?: Understanding the Mechanisms Underlying the Age Gradient in Outcome Following SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2022; 41:e36-e45. [PMID: 34966142 PMCID: PMC8740029 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000003413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Although there are many hypotheses for the age-related difference in the severity of COVID-19, differences in innate, adaptive and heterologous immunity, together with differences in endothelial and clotting function, are the most likely mechanisms underlying the marked age gradient. Children have a faster and stronger innate immune response to SARS-CoV-2, especially in the nasal mucosa, which rapidly controls the virus. In contrast, adults can have an overactive, dysregulated and less effective innate response that leads to uncontrolled pro-inflammatory cytokine production and tissue injury. More recent exposure to other viruses and routine vaccines in children might be associated with protective cross-reactive antibodies and T cells against SARS-CoV-2. There is less evidence to support other mechanisms that have been proposed to explain the age-related difference in outcome following SARS-CoV-2 infection, including pre-existing immunity from exposure to common circulating coronaviruses, differences in the distribution and expression of the entry receptors ACE2 and TMPRSS2, and difference in viral load.
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18
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A New Butyrate Releaser Exerts a Protective Action against SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Human Intestine. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27030862. [PMID: 35164139 PMCID: PMC8838168 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27030862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Butyrate is a major gut microbiome metabolite that regulates several defense mechanisms against infectious diseases. Alterations in the gut microbiome, leading to reduced butyrate production, have been reported in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. A new butyrate releaser, useful for all the known applications of butyrate, presenting physiochemical characteristics suitable for easy oral administration, (N-(1-carbamoyl-2-phenyl-ethyl) butyramide (FBA), has been recently developed. We investigated the protective action of FBA against SARS-CoV-2 infection in the human small intestine and enterocytes. Relevant aspects of SARS-CoV-2 infection were assessed: infectivity, host functional receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2), transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2), neuropilin-1 (NRP1), pro-inflammatory cytokines expression, genes involved in the antiviral response and the activation of Nf-kB nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2-like) 2 (Nfr2) pathways. We found that FBA positively modulates the crucial aspects of the infection in small intestinal biopsies and human enterocytes, reducing the expression of ACE2, TMPRSS2 and NRP1, pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-15, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and TNF-α, and regulating several genes involved in antiviral pathways. FBA was also able to reduce the number of SARS-CoV-2-infected cells, and ACE2, TMPRSS2 and NRP1 expression. Lastly, through the inhibition of Nf-kB and the up-regulation of Nfr2, it was also able to reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-15, MCP-1 and TNF-α in human enterocytes. The new butyrate releaser, FBA, exerts a preventive action against SARS-CoV-2 infection. It could be considered as an innovative strategy to limit COVID-19.
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19
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Sayed MA, Abdelhakeem M. Typical and Atypical Clinical Presentation of COVID-19 Infection in Children in The Top of Pandemic in EL-Minia Governorate (Two Center Experience). Mediterr J Hematol Infect Dis 2022; 14:e2022002. [PMID: 35070209 PMCID: PMC8747082 DOI: 10.4084/mjhid.2022.002] [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: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A novel coronavirus that is identified as the cause of pandemic situation inFebruary2020 and affects adults and children with variable presentation and outcome. OBJECTIVE We studied the typical and atypical clinical and laboratory presentation of COVID-19 during the peak of the first wave in two main referral hospitals, upper Egypt EL-Minia governorate. METHODS Among 88 children with suspected cases tested for COVID-19, only 22 proved to be positive. Studied patients were classified into three groups based on age. The first group was 2-5years, the second was 5-10years, and the third included those aged more than 10 years. All patients met diagnostic guidelines established by the Egyptian Ministry of Health. RESULTS out of the positive 22 (25%) patients, 13(59.1%) of them were male, while 9 (40.9%) were females. All enrolled patients have a history of near contact exposure (100%). Thrombocytopenia was the highest presenting symptom in all enrolled patients18 (81.8%), while other hematological findings were anemia in 11 (50%), thrombotic symptoms in 2 (9.1%), pancytopenia in 2(9.1%) while bleeding was found in 1 patient (4.5%). Fever, present in 16 (72.7%), the most common constitutional symptom in COVID-19, was not reported in all enrolled patients, while sore throat was reported in only 2 patients (9.1%). The respiratory presentation was only dominant in positive chest C.T. finding, 17(72.3%), rather than clinical symptoms; GUT symptoms were the dominant presenting features as vomiting was found in 15 (68.2%), diarrhea in 10 (45.5%), abdominal pain in 11 (50%), jaundice in 9 (40.9%) and dehydration in 6 (27.3%). Neurological symptoms were convulsions in 4 (18.2%), while encephalopathy was 2 (9.1%). Nephritis was the only renal presentation in the enrolled patients, 3 (13.6%). Cardiac presentations were only cyanosis 8 (36.4%) and arrhythmias 6 (27.3%). CONCLUSION COVID-19 has many clinical classic presentations in children; however other non-typical presentations like hematological, CNS, and renal presentations have been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeha Abdalla Sayed
- Lecturer of pediatrics, Faculty of medicine, EL-Minia University, EL-Minia, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Abdelhakeem
- Assistant professor of clinical pathology, EL-Minia University, El-Minia, Egypt
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20
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Paparo L, Bruno C, Ferrucci V, Punto E, Viscardi M, Fusco G, Cerino P, Romano A, Zollo M, Berni Canani R. Protective effects elicited by cow milk fermented with L. Paracasei CBAL74 against SARS-CoV-2 infection in human enterocytes. J Funct Foods 2021; 87:104787. [PMID: 34630633 PMCID: PMC8491972 DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2021.104787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fermented foods have been proposed in limiting SARS-CoV-2 infection. Emerging evidence suggest the efficacy of cow's milk fermented with the probiotic L. paracasei CBAL74 (FM-CBAL74) in preventing infectious diseases. We evaluated the protective action of FM-CBAL74 against SARS-CoV-2 infection in human enterocytes. Relevant aspects of SARS-CoV-2 infection were assessed: infectivity, host functional receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2), transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2), and pro-inflammatory cytokines expression (IL-6, IL-15, IL-1β, VEGFβ, TNF-α, MCP-1, CXCL1). Pre-incubation with FM-CBA L74 reduced the number of infected cells. The expression of ACE2 and the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, VEGFβ, IL-15, IL-1β was downregulated by the pre-treatment with this fermented food. No effect on TMPRSS2, MCP-1, TNF-α and CXCL1 expression was observed. Modulating the crucial aspects of the infection, the fermented food FM-CBAL74 exerts a preventive action against SARS-CoV-2. These evidence could pave the way to innovative nutritional strategy to mitigate the COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorella Paparo
- Department of Translational Medical Science, University of Naples, "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- CEINGE - Advanced Biotechnologies Research Center s.c.ar.l., University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina Bruno
- Department of Translational Medical Science, University of Naples, "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- CEINGE - Advanced Biotechnologies Research Center s.c.ar.l., University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Veronica Ferrucci
- CEINGE - Advanced Biotechnologies Research Center s.c.ar.l., University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche (DMMBM), University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Erika Punto
- Department of Translational Medical Science, University of Naples, "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- CEINGE - Advanced Biotechnologies Research Center s.c.ar.l., University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Viscardi
- DAI Medicina di Laboratorio e Trasfusionale, AOU Azienda Ospedaliera, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Fusco
- DAI Medicina di Laboratorio e Trasfusionale, AOU Azienda Ospedaliera, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Pellegrino Cerino
- DAI Medicina di Laboratorio e Trasfusionale, AOU Azienda Ospedaliera, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Alessia Romano
- CEINGE - Advanced Biotechnologies Research Center s.c.ar.l., University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Zollo
- CEINGE - Advanced Biotechnologies Research Center s.c.ar.l., University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche (DMMBM), University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Berni Canani
- Department of Translational Medical Science, University of Naples, "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- CEINGE - Advanced Biotechnologies Research Center s.c.ar.l., University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- European Laboratory for the Investigation of Food-Induced Diseases, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- Task Force for Microbiome Studies, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- Task Force for Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
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