Role of Mast Cells and Basophils in Fighting Major Viral Infections Including COVID-19
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Dec 11, 2024 12 hours, 30 minutes ago
Medical-News: Scientists from the University of Messina in Italy have been diving deep into the world of two vital immune cells, mast cells and basophils. These unsung heroes play key roles in battling some of the world’s deadliest viral infections, including COVID-19, HIV, Influenza A, and Dengue. Their discoveries provide groundbreaking insights into how these cells function, and more importantly, how they could be harnessed for better treatments and vaccines. This
Medical News report explores their findings in detail, offering an easy-to-understand look into the science.
The mechanisms through which SARS-CoV-2 interacts with mast cells and basophils
In the active phases of infection, the virus causes a reduction in the expression of CRTH2 on the surface of basophils and a significant increase in PD-L1, reducing the activation of the polarized T helper response. Active mast cells of the bronchial mucosa release TNF-alpha, IL-1, IL-6, proteases, histamine, prostaglandin D2, and leukotriene C4, promoting lung damage. In addition, the altered gene expressions induced by the virus significantly reduce the antiviral response of the immune system dependent on type I INF
Mast Cells and Basophils in Viral Warfare
Mast cells and basophils serve as the body’s first responders against viral invaders. They are located in tissues like the skin, lungs, and mucosal surfaces, acting as sentinels to detect threats. When activated by viruses, these cells release a storm of chemicals - cytokines and chemokines - that summon reinforcements from other immune cells. However, this defense mechanism can sometimes backfire, causing harmful inflammation.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, these cells were observed to have a double-edged role. On one hand, they help fight the virus; on the other, their hyperactivation can lead to severe complications like cytokine storms and lung damage. Understanding this balance is essential for designing targeted therapies that can maximize their protective effects while minimizing harm.
COVID-19 and the Role of Mast Cells
The study highlights that during COVID-19, mast cells play a pivotal role in airway inflammation. They release inflammatory molecules such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), which contribute to lung injury and, in severe cases, respiratory failure. Interestingly, researchers also found that mast cell stabilizers, such as sodium cromoglicate, could help reduce severe inflammation in COVID-19 patients. This finding could lead to new therapeutic approaches for managing the disease.
Basophils, meanwhile, show a significant decrease in numbers during the acute phase of COVID-19. This depletion correlates with a compromised immune response, making patients more vulnerable to severe outcomes. In contrast, during recovery, basophil levels gradually increase, suggesting their critical role in restoring immunity.
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Influenza A and Immune Response
Influenza A viruses, which have caused devastating pandemics in history, also activate mast cells. These cells release histamine and cytokines, triggering inflammation that damages lung tissues. The study showed that mast cells act as reservoirs for viral replication, which exacerbates the infection. However, treatments like melatonin and mast cell stabilizers could mitigate the harmful effects by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
Basophils, too, are implicated in the immune response to Influenza A. The virus’s neuraminidase protein stimulates these cells to release histamine and leukotrienes, contributing to airway inflammation. Notably, low basophil counts are associated with severe influenza cases, emphasizing the importance of these cells in controlling the infection.
HIV Infection
In HIV infection, mast cells and basophils play unique roles. These cells can capture the virus and transfer it to CD4+ T cells, aiding in viral spread. Mast cells release chemokines like CCL3 and CCL4, which recruit more immune cells to the site of infection. However, this process also creates an environment that the virus exploits for replication.
The research revealed that high levels of IgE, an antibody linked to allergies, enhance the interaction between HIV and these immune cells. This finding opens new avenues for therapeutic interventions, such as using anti-IgE antibodies to block this interaction and reduce viral spread.
Dengue and Mast Cell Activation
Dengue virus, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, also heavily involves mast cells in its pathology. The study found that these cells release histamine and cytokines that drive inflammation and contribute to severe symptoms like vascular leakage and shock. Interestingly, mast cell-deficient mice showed worse outcomes in experimental dengue infections, underscoring their protective role.
In dengue hemorrhagic fever, mast cells release factors that attract natural killer cells, which help clear the virus. However, excessive activation of mast cells can lead to complications. Targeting these cells with specific inhibitors could offer a promising strategy for managing dengue infections.
Conclusions and Implications
The research conducted by the team from the University of Messina highlights the dual nature of mast cells and basophils in viral infections. While these cells are critical for initiating immune responses and containing infections, their overactivation can lead to severe complications. This delicate balance makes them attractive targets for new therapies.
Therapeutic strategies could include mast cell stabilizers to reduce harmful inflammation, as well as approaches to enhance their protective roles. For example, using antihistamines or quercetin supplements could mitigate excessive mast cell activation in COVID-19. Similarly, targeting specific pathways in HIV and dengue could help contain these infections more effectively.
The findings also emphasize the need for further research into the role of these immune cells in other viral diseases. By understanding their functions in greater detail, scientists could develop innovative treatments that harness the power of the immune system without triggering harmful side effects.
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: Cells.
https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4409/13/24/2044
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Medical News.
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