[CRP apheresis in acute myocardial infarction and COVID-19]

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Immunology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• C-reactive protein (CRP) is a vital acute phase protein and biomarker for inflammation and infection.
• CRP initiates phagocytosis by labeling damaged cells, activating complement pathways for pathogen elimination.
• However, CRP can paradoxically cause tissue damage in internal conditions like myocardial infarction, stroke, and COVID-19 by labeling regenerable ischemic tissue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the detrimental role of C-reactive protein (CRP) in internal tissue damage.
• To explore the potential of CRP apheresis as a therapeutic strategy for conditions with high CRP levels.

Main Methods:

• Review of CRP's biological functions and its role in various clinical conditions.
• Introduction of selective immunoadsorption (CRP apheresis) as a method to remove CRP from blood plasma.

Main Results:

• CRP's dual role: protective in external wounds but damaging in internal ischemic conditions.
• Demonstration that CRP labeling contributes to tissue damage in myocardial infarction, stroke, and COVID-19.
• Successful implementation of CRP apheresis for rapid and efficient reduction of pathological CRP levels.

Conclusions:

• CRP plays a complex role in disease, contributing to tissue damage in internal injuries.
• CRP apheresis represents a novel and effective pharmacotherapeutic approach to mitigate CRP-induced damage.
• This method offers a clinical solution for rapidly lowering excessive CRP loads.