A comprehensive SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 review, Part 2: Host extracellular to systemic effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection
- Narayanan SA, Jamison DA Jr, Guarnieri JW, Zaksas V, Topper M, Koutnik AP, Park J, Clark KB, Enguita FJ, Leitão AL, Das S, Moraes-Vieira PM, Galeano D, Mason CE, Trovão NS, Schwartz RE, Schisler JC, Coelho-dos-Reis JG, Wurtele ES, Beheshti A
- November 8, 2023
This research paper discusses how certain tiny molecules in our bodies called microRNAs or miRNAs can help fight off the COVID-19 virus that causes respiratory issues. These special RNA pieces are like little soldiers inside us, and they've been found to potentially block SARS-CoV-2 from causing harm when tested on hamsters in a lab setting-a small step towards understanding how we might defend ourselves against the illness better. The study also points out that miRNAs are not just about fighting viruses; they play many roles, like helping our bodies respond to inflammation or even influencing heart health during COVID-19 infections. This is important because it shows us how interconnected different parts of the body can be when dealing with a virus and why looking at miRNAs might help doctors find new ways to treat patients, not just through vaccines but also by understanding our bodies' natural responses better.
The research paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the role played by miRNA in modulating SARS-CoV-2 infection outcomes within hamster models expressing human ACE2 receptors. The study identifies several additional microRNAs that are implicated in COVID-19 pathogenesis, focusing on their involvement with viral load levels and biomarker profiles associated with the disease's progression or resolution. Methodologically, hamster models expressing human ACE2 receptors were utilized to investigate SARS-CoV-2 infection dynamics. The researchers employed high-throughput sequencing techniques alongside bioinformatic analyses and functional assays to identify miRNA expression patterns correlated with viral replication, immune response modulation, cytokine storm development, and activation of signaling pathways relevant to COVID-19 outcomes. Key findings from the study reveal that specific microRNAs are differentially expressed in hamster models post SARS-CoV-2 infection compared to controls or uninfected animals.
MLA
SA, Narayanan, et al. “A comprehensive SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 review, Part 2: Host extracellular to systemic effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection.” PubMed Central, National Center for Biotechnology Information, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10772081/. Accessed 30 Sept 2026.
Chicago
SA, Narayanan, et al. “A comprehensive SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 review, Part 2: Host extracellular to systemic effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection.” PubMed Central. 30 September 2026. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10772081/.
