Immune Responses in SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV Infections: A Comparative Review

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Coronaviruses, known since the 1960s, cause mild to severe respiratory issues.
• Recent decades saw emergence of SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2.
• Viral entry mechanisms involve specific host cell receptors (e.g., ACE2, DPP4).
• A 'cytokine storm' and neutrophil infiltration are key pathological features, increasing ARDS and mortality risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review immune responses in SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 infections.
• To elucidate the role of inflammatory cells in coronavirus pathogenesis.
• To explore the potential of immune markers for outcome prediction.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of immunological and pathological aspects of SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2.
• Analysis of viral entry mechanisms and host-pathogen interactions.
• Examination of the role of cytokine storms and inflammatory cell infiltration.

Main Results:

• SARS-CoV-2 exhibits high transmissibility and widespread infection, often with asymptomatic cases.
• Cytokine storm and neutrophil infiltration are common to these viral infections, correlating with severe outcomes.
• Immune response patterns and inflammatory markers may aid in predicting disease progression.

Conclusions:

• Understanding immune responses and inflammatory cell roles is crucial for managing coronavirus infections.
• Rapid diagnostic tools and outcome prediction markers are essential, especially for SARS-CoV-2.
• Further research into host-pathogen interactions can inform therapeutic strategies.