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Impaired immune response against SARS-CoV-2 infection is the major factor indirectly altering reproductive function

Kahindo P Muyayalo1,2, Guang-Shun Gong1, Kahindo Kiyonga Aimeé3,4

  • 1Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P. R. China.

Human Fertility (Cambridge, England)
|October 9, 2023
PubMed

Insights

The COVID-19 virus (SARS-CoV-2) can impact reproductive health through immune system dysregulation. Chronic inflammation and autoimmunity in long COVID may underlie long-term adverse effects on female reproduction.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive immunology
  • Infectious disease pathology
  • Systemic effects of viral infections

Background:

  • Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) affects multiple organ systems, including the reproductive system.
  • SARS-CoV-2 can directly and indirectly damage reproductive organs.
  • Immune system homeostasis is crucial for reproductive function in both sexes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the dysregulation of innate and adaptive immune systems caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection.
  • To examine the impact of altered immune responses on reproductive function and fertility.
  • To summarize long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 on female reproduction, particularly long COVID.

Main Methods:

  • Narrative review of existing scientific literature.
  • Analysis of evidence on SARS-CoV-2-induced immune dysregulation.
  • Synthesis of studies on reproductive outcomes in COVID-19 patients.

Main Results:

  • Altered immune responses in COVID-19 patients are a major indirect cause of adverse reproductive outcomes.
  • Evidence suggests SARS-CoV-2 infection can impair male and female reproductive function.
  • Chronic inflammation and autoimmunity associated with long COVID are proposed mechanisms for long-term female reproductive dysfunction.

Conclusions:

  • SARS-CoV-2 infection significantly impacts reproductive health via immune system alterations.
  • Chronic inflammation and autoimmunity in long COVID are potential key factors in long-term female reproductive issues.
  • Further research is required to elucidate the specific roles of autoimmunity and chronic inflammation in post-COVID-19 reproductive dysfunction.
Keywords:
SARS-CoV-2autoimmunitychronic autoimmunitychronic inflammationcovid-19fertilityinflammationreproductive function

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