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Updated: Aug 18, 2025

Live Imaging and Quantification of Viral Infection in K18 hACE2 Transgenic Mice Using Reporter-Expressing Recombinant SARS-CoV-2
Published on: November 5, 2021
SEVERE CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019: FROM PATHOGENESIS TO THERAPY
Jean-Marc Cavaillon1, Antonio Artigas2, Andreas Barratt-Due3
1National Research Agency (ANR), Paris, France.
Abstract:
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenge to propose efficient therapies. Because severe SARS-CoV2 infection is a viral sepsis eventually followed by an immunological autoinflammatory phenomenon, many approaches have been inspired by the previous attempts made in bacterial sepsis, while specific antiviral strategies (use of interferon or specific drugs) have been additionally investigated. We summarize our current thinking on the use of SARS-CoV-2 antivirals, corticosteroids, anti-IL-1, anti-IL-6, anti-C5a, as well as stem cell therapy in severe COVID-19. Patient stratification and appropriate time window will be important to be defined to guide successful treatment.
Insights
Treating severe COVID-19 requires a multifaceted approach, combining antiviral drugs and immunomodulators like corticosteroids and anti-cytokine therapies. Patient stratification is key for effective treatment timing and outcomes in this viral sepsis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Severe COVID-19 presents as a viral sepsis with subsequent autoinflammatory responses.
- Therapeutic strategies for bacterial sepsis have informed COVID-19 treatment approaches.
- Antiviral strategies are crucial alongside immunomodulatory treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current therapeutic strategies for severe COVID-19.
- To discuss the role of antivirals, corticosteroids, and targeted immunotherapies.
- To highlight the importance of patient stratification and treatment timing.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of current research on COVID-19 therapies.
- Analysis of immunomodulatory and antiviral treatment options.
- Discussion of stem cell therapy and complement inhibition (anti-C5a).
Main Results:
- Severe COVID-19 involves both viral replication and an overactive immune response.
- Combinations of antivirals, corticosteroids, and cytokine inhibitors (anti-IL-1, anti-IL-6) show promise.
- Stem cell therapy and complement inhibition are being investigated.
Conclusions:
- Effective treatment of severe COVID-19 necessitates a combination of antiviral and immunomodulatory therapies.
- Patient stratification and precise timing of interventions are critical for successful outcomes.
- Further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols for this complex disease.
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