Endothelial Cell Activation by SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and Its RBD: Central Player of the Immunothrobotic Response in COVID-19.

ABSTRACT: COVID-19 has been associated with an active immunothrombotic process. The involvement of endothelial cells (ECs) in the feedback loop of the inflammatory and thrombotic process characteristic of COVID-19, as well as its differences with other infectious inflammatory conditions, remains an area requiring further elucidation. This study aimed to assess the immunothrombotic phenotype induced by the SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) protein and its receptor-binding domain (RBD) in endothelial-derived cell lines. HUVEC and EA.hy926 cell lines were exposed to S protein and to its RBD. Inflammatory, thrombotic, and fibrinolytic mediators were quantified. Molecular docking assays were conducted to identify potential EC receptors for S protein. EC activation was dependent on both protein concentration and stimu

SUBMITTER: Cano-Mendez A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12939624 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature