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Increased expression of SCARF genes favoring SARS-CoV-2 infection in key target organs in CKD

Sol Carriazo1,2, Marta Ribagorda1,2, Aranzazu Pintor-Chocano1,2

  • 1Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, IIS-Fundacion Jimenez Diaz UAM, Madrid, Spain.

Clinical Kidney Journal
|December 4, 2023
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) alters the expression of SARS-CoV-2 and coronavirus-associated receptors and factors (SCARFs) in COVID-19 target organs. These changes may increase infection risk and severity in patients with CKD.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Virology
  • Genomics

Background:

  • Chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly diabetic CKD, significantly elevates the risk of fatal COVID-19.
  • The molecular mechanisms linking CKD and severe COVID-19 remain unclear.
  • SARS-CoV-2 and coronavirus-associated receptors and factors (SCARFs) are critical for viral entry and replication.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate whether CKD alters the expression of SCARF genes.
  • To identify potential molecular pathways contributing to increased COVID-19 severity in CKD patients.

Main Methods:

  • A literature search identified 34 SCARF genes.
  • mRNA expression of 21 selected SCARFs was assessed in kidney, lung, aorta, and heart tissues of mice with adenine-induced CKD.
  • Differential gene expression was validated using human CKD kidney transcriptomics datasets.

Main Results:

  • Twenty SCARF genes showed differential expression in at least one organ in CKD mice.
  • Fifteen genes exhibited expression patterns potentially favoring SARS-CoV-2 infection or severity.
  • Two protective genes, IFITM3 and LY6E, were downregulated in non-kidney target organs.

Conclusions:

  • CKD is associated with altered SCARF gene expression in COVID-19 target organs.
  • These alterations may predispose individuals with CKD to SARS-CoV-2 infection and increased severity.
  • Findings may inform therapeutic strategies to mitigate COVID-19 outcomes in CKD patients.
Keywords:
SARS-CoV-2SCARFchronic kidney diseasemortalityrisk factor

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