Role of glutathione reduction in causation severe complications of coronavirus disease-2019

Abstract

Abstract Background: Coronavirus is a pandemic disease that emerged in China in 2019 with severe respiratory syndromes in conjunction with organ failure and advanced mortality rate where it has attracted worldwide interest. The pathogenicity of the virus increases by exacerbated oxidative stress that leads to the accumulation of free radicals in the body. Frequently, those free radicals are neutralized by antioxidants, especially glutathione. Objective: Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the role of glutathione in the pathogenicity of the virus alongside certain blood parameters. Materials and Methods: In this study, 90 participants were examined for glutathione levels using a specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit in addition to the levels of hemoglobin (Hb). Ferritin and vitamin D3 were also measured as they are linked to the level of glutathione in coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). Result: The lowest level of Reduced glutathione in COVID-19 hospitalized patients especially male patients alongside with vitamin D3 and Hb levels. Whereas a significant (P < 0.05) increase in ferritin level was recorded. However, a significant (P < 0.05) increase in ferritin level was recorded. Conclusion: This study showed a significant relationship between glutathione level and disease severity in hospitalized patients with COVID-19, where the depletion of the glutathione level may have a central role in COVID-19 severity and pathophysiology.