Is haem the real target of COVID-19? #MMPMID34119708
Rapozzi V; Juarranz A; Habib A; Ihan A; Strgar R
Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther 2021[Sep]; 35 (ä): 102381 PMID34119708show ga
Although a vaccination campaign has been launched in many countries, the COVID-19 pandemic is not under control. The main concern is the emergence of new variants of SARS-CoV-2; therefore, it is important to find approaches to prevent or reduce the virulence and pathogenicity of the virus. Currently, the mechanism of action of SARS-CoV-2 is not fully understood. Considering the clinical effects that occur during the disease, attacking the human respiratory and hematopoietic systems, and the changes in biochemical parameters (including decreases in haemoglobin [Hb] levels and increases in serum ferritin), it is clear that iron metabolism is involved. SARS-CoV-2 induces haemolysis and interacts with Hb molecules via ACE2, CD147, CD26, and other receptors located on erythrocytes and/or blood cell precursors that produce dysfunctional Hb. A molecular docking study has reported a potential link between the virus and the beta chain of haemoglobin and attack on haem. Considering that haem is involved in miRNA processing by binding to the DGCR8-DROSHA complex, we hypothesised that the virus may check this mechanism and thwart the antiviral response.
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Photodiagnosis+Photodyn+Ther 2021 ; 35 (ä): 102381
