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Published on: January 12, 2015
Heterogeneous expression of ACE2 and TMPRRS2 in mesenchymal stromal cells
Melanie Generali1, Debora Kehl1, Debora Wanner1
1Institute for Regenerative Medicine (IREM), Center for Therapy Development and Good Manufacturing Practice, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
Abstract:
The outbreak of COVID-19 has become a serious public health emergency. The virus targets cells by binding the ACE2 receptor. After infection, the virus triggers in some humans an immune storm containing the release of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines followed by multiple organ failure. Several vaccines are enrolled, but an effective treatment is still missing. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown to secrete immunomodulatory factors that suppress this cytokine storm. Therefore, MSCs have been suggested as a potential treatment option for COVID-19. We report here that the ACE2 expression is minimal or nonexistent in MSC derived from three different human tissue sources (adipose tissue, umbilical cord Wharton`s jelly and bone marrow). In contrast, TMPRSS2 that is implicated in SARS-CoV-2 entry has been detected in all MSC samples. These results are of particular importance for future MSC-based cell therapies to treat severe cases after COVID-19 infection.
Insights
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) lack ACE2, the virus receptor, but express TMPRSS2, crucial for SARS-CoV-2 entry. This finding is vital for developing MSC-based COVID-19 treatments.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Virology
Background:
- COVID-19, a global health crisis, involves viral entry via the ACE2 receptor.
- Severe cases can lead to cytokine storms and multi-organ failure.
- Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) show potential for modulating immune responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in human MSCs.
- To assess the suitability of MSCs for COVID-19 therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expression in MSCs from adipose tissue, umbilical cord Wharton's jelly, and bone marrow.
Main Results:
- MSCs exhibited minimal or no ACE2 expression across all tested tissue sources.
- TMPRSS2, essential for viral entry, was detected in all MSC samples.
Conclusions:
- The absence of ACE2 suggests MSCs may not be susceptible to direct SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- The presence of TMPRSS2 indicates MSCs could be influenced by the virus.
- These findings are critical for advancing MSC-based therapies for severe COVID-19.
