An integrative look at SARS‑CoV‑2 (Review)

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a novel betacoronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic.
• COVID-19 has caused significantly more infections and deaths globally than previous coronaviruses like SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV.
• The virus's rapid spread is linked to its strong binding affinity with the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) receptor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, and patient responses.
• To discuss existing and potential future therapies for COVID-19.
• To propose strategies for combating the disease and preventing further global health threats.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of updated scientific publications.
• Compilation of data on clinical manifestations and patient immune responses.
• Analysis of viral mechanisms, including ACE-2 receptor interaction.

Main Results:

• COVID-19 presents a wide range of clinical manifestations, varying among individuals and particularly affecting vulnerable groups.
• A balanced immune response is critical; hyperactivation can lead to severe COVID-19, respiratory failure, and thrombotic events.
• SARS-CoV-2 efficiently infects and spreads due to its interaction with the ACE-2 receptor.

Conclusions:

• Effective clinical management and prevention of COVID-19 rely on understanding viral pathogenesis and host immune responses.
• Development of novel therapies and vaccines targeting immune regulation is essential.
• Population screening and control strategies are vital to attenuate the transmission of this novel RNA virus.