Cellular roadmaps predict body's coronavirus vulnerability

Video Credit: ANI
Published on September 4, 2020 - Duration: 01:58s

Cellular roadmaps predict body's coronavirus vulnerability

New research from Cornell University developed potential roadmaps for how the coronavirus infects organs and identifies what molecular factors could help facilitate or restrict infection.

"The data suggest that it's not just a respiratory disease," said lead author Cedric Feschotte, a molecular biology professor.

"It's much broader than that and has the potential to affect many other organs.

Our analyses suggest that there is a wide range of cellular vulnerabilities." The study maps the expression of 28 human genes dubbed 'SCARFs' - SARS-Cov-2 and Coronavirus-Associated Receptors and Factors.

By looking at the single-cell RNA expression of these genes, they can predict which tissues and cell types are most vulnerable to coronavirus infection - in both adults and embryos.

The team analyzed the RNA expression of healthy human tissues to develop a comprehensive profile of the molecular factors that both facilitate and restrict SARS-CoV2 infection.

Without the immune system's ability to respond quickly, Feschotte said, naturally occurring restriction factors already present in the tissues represent the body's main line of defense against SARS-CoV-2.

Mapping the different entry points for the virus also is essential for trying to predict where the virus will go after it enters the body.

Moreover, by pinpointing the molecular routes of infection, other researchers can use those areas as targets for developing drugs to overcome the infection.

The study indicates alternate entry paths for how the virus could enter the lungs, central nervous system, and heart.

Their research also supports emerging clinical data that shows SARS-CoV-2 also infect the intestines, kidney, and placenta.

They noted that specific groups of cells within the prostate and testes are likely to be permissive for SARS-CoV-2 and may help explain male-specific vulnerabilities.

As part of this project, the team also developed an open-access, user-friendly web interface where anyone can look up the single-cell RNA expressions of SCARFs.

This will facilitate easy access to data that will help scientists around the world.


You are here

Related videos from verified sources

Government is ‘pro spit, pro breath and pro poo’ on student testing 00:22
Video credit: PA - Press Association STUDIO - Published on September 28, 2020 

Researchers Find Light Frequency That Kills COVID-19 Virus Without Harming Humans 00:38
Video credit: Wochit Tech - Published on September 21, 2020 

Covid update: 1,500 crore vaccine doses; onion export ban; Oct-Nov warning 02:18
Video credit: HT Digital Content - Published on September 14, 2020 

You might like