Preferential uptake of SARS-CoV-2 by pericytes potentiates vascular damage and permeability in an organoid model of the microvasculature.

ABSTRACT:

Aims

Thrombotic complications and vasculopathy have been extensively associated with severe COVID-19 infection; however, the mechanisms inducing endotheliitis and the disruption of endothelial integrity in the microcirculation are poorly understood. We hypothesized that within the vessel wall, pericytes preferentially take up viral particles and mediate the subsequent loss of vascular integrity.

Methods and results

Immunofluorescence of post-mortem patient sections was used to assess pathophysiological aspects of COVID-19 infection. The effects of COVID-19 on the microvasculature were assessed using a vascular organoid model exposed to live viral particles or recombinant viral antigens. We find increased expression of the viral entry receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2

SUBMITTER: Khan AO 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9214165 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature