Roles of mitochondrial DNA in dynamics of the immune response to COVID-19.

Authors :: Mahmoodpoor A
Sanaie S
Ostadi Z
Eskandari M
Behrouzi N
Asghari R
Zahirnia A
Sohrabifar N
Kazeminasab S
Source :: Gene [Gene] 2022 Aug 20; Vol. 836, pp. 146681. Date of Electronic Publication: 2022 Jun 18.
Publication Year :: 2022
Abstract: Mitochondria dynamics have a pivotal role in many aspects of immune function. Viral infections affect mitochondrial dynamics and trigger the release of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in host cells. Released mtDNA guides the immune response towards an inflammatory response against pathogens. In addition, circulating cell-free mtDNA (ccf-mtDNA) is considered an invaluable indicator for the prognosis and severity of infectious diseases. This study provides an overview of the role of mtDNA in the dynamics of the immune response to COVID-19. We focused on the possible roles of mtDNA in inducing the signaling pathways, and the inflammasome activation and regulation in SARS-CoV-2. Targeting mtDNA-related pathways can provide critical insights into therapeutic strategies for COVID-19.<br /> (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)