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Androgens in SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus infections.
Physiological Research
|December 16, 2021
Summary
Androgens play a key role in SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) cell entry. Lowering androgen levels may moderate severe COVID-19 cases, but low androgens are also a risk factor.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Virology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Androgen activity is crucial for SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells.
- Clinical data suggest men, particularly those with androgenic alopecia, experience more severe COVID-19.
- Preadolescent children and men undergoing androgen deprivation therapy exhibit milder SARS-CoV-2 infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the hypothesis that modulating androgen levels could impact SARS-CoV-2 infection severity.
- To investigate the potential benefits of blocking both gonadal and adrenal androgens.
Main Methods:
- Review of molecular biology findings on protease serine 2 and androgen dependence.
- Analysis of clinical observations correlating androgen status with COVID-19 outcomes.
- Examination of existing literature on androgen effects on metabolism and immunity.
Main Results:
- Androgen levels influence SARS-CoV-2 protease activity and cell penetration.
- Men's higher infection rates and severe outcomes correlate with androgen levels.
- Androgen deprivation therapy is associated with milder COVID-19 courses.
Conclusions:
- Lowering androgen levels, including adrenal androgens, may moderate severe COVID-19.
- Low androgen levels present a complex risk factor due to metabolic and immune effects.
- Further research is needed to understand SARS-CoV-2's impact on male fertility and potential hypogonadism.
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