A double edged-sword - The Complement System during SARS-CoV-2 infection.

ABSTRACT: In the past 20 years, infections caused by coronaviruses SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 have posed a threat to public health since they may cause severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in humans. The Complement System is activated during viral infection, being a central protagonist of innate and acquired immunity. Here, we report some interactions between these three coronaviruses and the Complement System, highlighting the central role of C3 with the severity of these infections. Although it can be protective, its role during coronavirus infections seems to be contradictory. For example, during SARS-CoV-2 infection, Complement System can control the viral infection in asymptomatic or mild cases; however, it can also intensify local and systemic damage in some of severe COVID-19 patie

SUBMITTER: Santiesteban-Lores LE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7889033 | biostudies-literature | 2021 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature