Project leader: Dr. Vladan Čokić
Project collaborators: Dr. Juan Santibanez, Dr. Olivera Mitrović Ajtić, Dr. Milica Vukotić, Dr. Dragoslava Đikić, Dr. Tijana Subotički, Dr. Teodora Dragojević
Project number: 7547934
Duration of the project: 2021-2022.
Leading institution: Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade
Description of the project:
Severe acute coronavirus virus syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-induced hyperinflammation is a major reason for severe clinical outcome of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), principally in male patients. Cell entry of SARS-CoV-2 depends on binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and androgen-regulated transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2). We propose a novel androgen-dependent mechanism of ACE2 activation by SARS-CoV-2 in endothelial and immune cells; as well as endothelial dysfunction and hyperinflammation stimulated immune response predispose to thrombus formation in COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 will be isolated, in vitro expanded, and used to monitor cell signaling and cytokine storm by immune assays and viral load by RT-qPCR. Related androgen pathways will be pharmacologically targeted. Immune-endothelial cell co-cultures will be performed for thrombosis development. We expect androgen-dependent SARS-CoV-2 host cell infection and mediated inflammation in thrombotic complications. This translational research will reveal androgen pathways implication in SARS-CoV-2 infection and therapeutic strategies to speed up patient recovery.