1. Exploring the Role of Immune System and Inflammatory Cytokines in SARS-CoV-2 Induced Lung Disease: A Narrative Review
- Author
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Claudio Tirelli, Mara De Amici, Cristina Albrici, Sabrina Mira, Giulia Nalesso, Beatrice Re, Angelo Guido Corsico, Michele Mondoni, and Stefano Centanni
- Subjects
SARS-CoV-2 ,COVID-19 ,cytokine storm ,immune system ,immunotherapy ,vaccine ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 - Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative pathogen of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). COVID-19 can manifest with a heterogenous spectrum of disease severity, from mild upper airways infection to severe interstitial pneumonia and devastating acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). SARS-CoV-2 infection may induce an over activation of the immune system and the release of high concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines, leading to a “cytokine storm”, a recognized pathogenetic mechanism in the genesis of SARS-CoV-2-induced lung disease. This overproduction of inflammatory cytokines has been recognized as a poor prognostic factor, since it can lead to disease progression, organ failure, ARDS and death. Moreover, the immune system shows dysregulated activity, particularly through activated macrophages and T-helper cells and in the co-occurrent exhaustion of lymphocytes. We carried out a non-systematic literature review aimed at providing an overview of the current knowledge on the pathologic mechanisms played by the immune system and the inflammation in the genesis of SARS-CoV-2-induced lung disease. An overview on potential treatments for this harmful condition and for contrasting the “cytokine storm” has also been presented. Finally, a look at the experimented experimental vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 has been included.
- Published
- 2023
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