Is haem the real target of COVID-19?

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Hematology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic persists despite vaccination efforts, with new SARS-CoV-2 variants emerging.
• Understanding SARS-CoV-2's mechanism of action is crucial for developing effective treatments.
• Clinical observations suggest SARS-CoV-2 affects respiratory and hematopoietic systems, impacting iron metabolism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential role of iron metabolism and hemoglobin dysfunction in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis.
• To explore how SARS-CoV-2 might interfere with the body's antiviral responses via hemoglobin interactions.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of clinical effects and biochemical changes associated with COVID-19, including hemoglobin and ferritin levels.
• Review of molecular interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and host cell receptors (ACE2, CD147, CD26) on blood cells.
• Consideration of molecular docking studies linking SARS-CoV-2 to hemoglobin and heme.

Main Results:

• SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with hemolysis and dysfunctional hemoglobin, indicated by decreased hemoglobin levels.
• The virus interacts with hemoglobin and heme, potentially affecting blood cell precursors.
• Heme's role in microRNA (miRNA) processing via the DGCR8-DROSHA complex is implicated.

Conclusions:

• SARS-CoV-2 may disrupt iron metabolism and induce hemoglobin dysfunction.
• The virus might interfere with heme-dependent miRNA processing, potentially suppressing antiviral responses.
• Targeting iron metabolism and heme interactions could offer novel therapeutic strategies against COVID-19.