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Published on: March 14, 2011
Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 Target and Disable Natural Killer Cells: Core Immune Effectors for Fighting the Disease
1Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, The Jane and Jerry Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA; The Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA School of Dentistry and Medicine, Los Angeles, CA.
Abstract:
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) poses a great public health challenge worldwide. While studies on the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on immune cell function continue to progress, we know very little about the significance of depletion of key immune effectors by the virus in the mortality and morbidity of the disease. This commentary reviews what is known thus far about the effects of the virus on natural killer (NK) cells, the major cell type responsible for the destruction and removal of virally infected cells. It also highlights the necessity of comprehensive studies of NK cells in COVID-19 patients and animal models to better understand the role and significance of reported NK depletion and functional inactivation in disease morbidity and mortality, in the hopes of designing effective therapeutic interventions for the disease.
Insights
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) impacts natural killer (NK) cells, crucial for fighting viral infections. Further research is needed to understand NK cell depletion
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) presents a significant global public health challenge.
- While SARS-CoV-2 effects on immune cells are studied, the impact of immune effector depletion on COVID-19 severity remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on SARS-CoV-2 effects on natural killer (NK) cells.
- To emphasize the need for comprehensive studies on NK cells in COVID-19 to understand their role in disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on SARS-CoV-2 and NK cell interactions.
- Analysis of reported NK cell depletion and functional changes in COVID-19 patients.
Main Results:
- Natural killer (NK) cells are vital for clearing virally infected cells.
- Evidence suggests SARS-CoV-2 can deplete and functionally impair NK cells.
Conclusions:
- Understanding NK cell dynamics in COVID-19 is crucial for assessing disease morbidity and mortality.
- Further research in patients and models is essential for developing targeted NK cell-based therapies.
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