COVID-19: A Possible Contribution of the MAPK Pathway

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Molecular Biology
• Virology

Background:

• COVID-19 involves uncontrolled inflammation and cytokine production, often via intracellular pathways like mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK).
• The specific role of the MAPK pathway in severe COVID-19 pathogenesis remains unclear.
• Viruses can manipulate host cell pathways, including MAPK, for their replication and spread.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify biomarkers associated with the MAPK pathway in individuals with and without SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• To explore the potential association between MAPK pathway biomarkers and clinical manifestations of COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• Quantification of H-RAS, C-RAF, MAPK1, MAPK2, and ERK proteins using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA).
• Evaluation of genetic polymorphisms in MAPK pathway-related genes via real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
• Prospective recruitment of 201 participants (158 SARS-CoV-2 positive, 43 negative).

Main Results:

• MAPK pathway biomarker levels were significantly higher in SARS-CoV-2 positive individuals compared to negative controls.
• Shortness of breath (dyspnea) in positive participants correlated with peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) C-RAF levels and ventilation type.
• A significant portion of positive participants required respiratory support, including invasive ventilation and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).

Conclusions:

• This research provides the first evidence linking MAPK pathway biomarkers to specific clinical features of COVID-19.
• Elevated MAPK biomarkers may serve as indicators for identifying COVID-19 patients at higher risk of developing severe complications.
• Further investigation into the MAPK pathway could lead to improved diagnostic and prognostic tools for COVID-19.