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J Inflamm Res
. 2020 Sep 9;13:507-518.
doi: 10.2147/JIR.S267280. eCollection 2020.
Role of IFN and Complements System: Innate Immunity in SARS-CoV-2
Tewodros Shibabaw 1 , Meseret Derbew Molla 1 , Banchamlak Teferi 2 , Birhanu Ayelign 3
Affiliations
- PMID: 32982366
- PMCID: PMC7490109
- DOI: 10.2147/JIR.S267280
Abstract
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: IFNs; SARS-CoV-2; complement; cytokines; innate immune system; virulent.