Analysis of the dynamics of gene expression in patients with acute COVID-19 and in recovery period

Abstract

Massive infections of people with the previously unidentified SARS-CoV-2 virus have been a shock to the global healthcare system. While many studies have focused on the clinical manifestations of the disease and its treatment methods, understanding the molecular and genetic aspects of infection has proved critical to understanding the pathogenetic mechanisms of host-pathogen interaction. The scientists focused on issues of gene expression and their regulation in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection. In particular, we conducted a study of gene expression within the framework of the project «COVID-19: Scientific and technological justification of the response system to the spread of new respiratory infections, including coronavirus infection», the results of which are presented in the article [1].Hence, variations in the gene expression profiles of TLR 3 (Toll-Like receptor), TLR 7, TLR 4, ACE 2 (Angiotensing converting enzyme), TMPRSS 13 (Transmembrane serine protease), INF-Ɣ (Interferon gamma), and IL 4 (Interleukin) were discerned across all investigated cohorts, including those assessed six months post-recovery. There is a complex of pathways of immune system to defense with the infection including the involvement of toll-like receptor signaling pathways which contact of viral particles. Moreover, the surge in ACE2 expression demonstrates the multifunctional role as gates for Sars-Cov-2 to enter cells and activation of innate immunity responses. Although, the upregulation of INF-Ɣ and IL-4 as proinflammatory cytokines were contributed to the initiation and the progression of the cytokine storm.