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Published on: December 23, 2020
SARS-CoV-2 mediated dysregulation in cell signaling events drives the severity of COVID-19
1Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali 3814, Bangladesh.
Abstract:
A balance in immune response against an unfamiliar pathogen is crucial to eliminate the infection. A cascade of cell signaling events is immediately activated upon sensing the presence of SARS-CoV-2 by cellular toll like receptors in a natural host response manner against the invading virus. The ultimate aim of such innate immune signaling pathways is to provide a required level of protection to our bodies by interfering with the invader. However, if there is any loss in such balance, an impairment in immune system emerge that fails to control the regulated transcription and translation of signaling components. Consequently, excessive level of proinflammatory mediators release into the circulatory systems that ultimately cause "cytokine storm" and COVID-19 pathological syndromes. The limited production of interferons (IFNs), while excessive yield of pro-inflammatory cytokines followed by SARS-CoV-2 infection suggests an abnormal cell signaling event and explains the reasons of increased immunopathology and severity in COVID-19.
Insights
A balanced immune response is vital for fighting SARS-CoV-2. Imbalances lead to excessive inflammation, causing severe COVID-19 pathology due to impaired cell signaling and cytokine storm.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Cellular Signaling
Background:
- Effective immune responses are crucial for pathogen elimination.
- SARS-CoV-2 triggers innate immune signaling via toll-like receptors.
- Maintaining immune balance is key to preventing infection-induced pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of immune signaling balance in COVID-19.
- To understand the mechanisms behind SARS-CoV-2-induced immunopathology.
- To elucidate the link between impaired cell signaling and disease severity.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of cellular toll-like receptor activation.
- Monitoring of innate immune signaling pathways.
- Assessment of cytokine and interferon production in response to SARS-CoV-2.
Main Results:
- SARS-CoV-2 infection disrupts immune response balance.
- Impaired signaling leads to uncontrolled pro-inflammatory mediator release.
- Limited interferon production coupled with excessive cytokines indicates abnormal cell signaling.
Conclusions:
- Dysregulated immune cell signaling contributes to COVID-19 severity.
- The "cytokine storm" results from a loss of immune homeostasis.
- Understanding these signaling defects is critical for managing COVID-19 pathology.
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