Journal of Inflammation Research (Sep 2020)
Role of IFN and Complements System: Innate Immunity in SARS-CoV-2
Abstract
Tewodros Shibabaw,1 Meseret Derbew Molla,1 Banchamlak Teferi,2 Birhanu Ayelign3 1Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia; 2Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia; 3Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Tewodros Shibabaw Email [email protected]: The critical role of the innate immune system has been confirmed in driving local and systemic inflammation and the cytokine release storm in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This dysregulated immune response is focused on interferon (IFN) and complement activation, which are crucial for the development of metabolic inflammation, local lung tissue damage, and systemic multi-organ failure. IFNs control viral infections by inducing expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) that restrict distinct steps of viral replication. Therefore, in this review article, we propose the mechanism of SARS-CoV-2-associated acute respiratory disease syndrome, and assess treatment options by considering IFNs and by targeting IFN-antagonist SARS-CoV-2 virulent gene products. Furthermore, we elaborate on the mechanism of the amplified complement-mediated inflammatory cytokine storm, and propose an antiviral and immunotherapeutic strategy against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).Keywords: SARS-CoV-2, innate immune system, cytokines, complement, IFNs, virulent
