Researchers discover new cause of cytokine storm in COVID-19
“RAAS, a hormone system that normally turns on and off to help regulate blood pressure, body fluids and electrolytes, is the spark that pushes the immune response into overdrive.”
A peptide derived from the SARS-CoV-2 S1 spike protein, named P3, can stimulate a significant portion of human T cells.
This stimulation leads to increased production of inflammatory cytokines and granzyme B.
COVID-19 can cause a severe immune response known as a cytokine storm, leading to poor prognosis and potentially fatal outcomes.
The virus triggers excessive infiltration of immune cells, such as macrophages and T-helper 17 cells.
“SARS-CoV-2 can trigger an overactive immune response, leading to the release of large amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
This excessive cytokine release can cause widespread inflammation, leading to damage in various organs, including the lungs, heart, and kidneys.”