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Basophils and Mast Cells in COVID-19 Pathogenesis
Giuseppe Murdaca1, Mario Di Gioacchino2,3, Monica Greco4
1Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy.
Cells
|October 23, 2021
Summary
Basophils and mast cells are key in immune responses. Lower basophil counts indicate a worse prognosis for COVID-19, while mast cells contribute to inflammation and fibrosis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Pathology
Background:
- Basophils and mast cells are crucial inducers of Th2 responses, vital for allergic reactions and anti-parasitic immunity.
- These cells play roles in antigen presentation, humoral immunity, and immune memory, influencing infection susceptibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of basophils and mast cells in the immune response to SARS-CoV-2.
- To investigate the prognostic value of basophil counts in COVID-19 patients.
- To identify mast cells as potential therapeutic targets for COVID-19-related inflammation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and analysis of existing data on basophil and mast cell functions.
- Examination of the correlation between basophil levels and COVID-19 severity and antibody response.
- Assessment of mast cell involvement in SARS-CoV-2-induced hyperinflammation and pulmonary fibrosis.
Main Results:
- Basophils actively participate in the adaptive immune response to SARS-CoV-2, with lower counts during acute infection correlating with poorer prognosis.
- Mast cells, abundant in respiratory tissues, contribute to early immune responses and hyperinflammatory syndromes, including cytokine storms and pulmonary fibrosis.
- Basophil depletion severity is linked to the antibody response against SARS-CoV-2.
Conclusions:
- Basophil counts can serve as a prognostic indicator for COVID-19.
- Mast cells represent a potential therapeutic target for mitigating airway inflammation in severe COVID-19.
- Understanding these cells' roles is critical for managing COVID-19 and related complications.
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