Elevated serum mtDNA in COVID-19 patients is linked to SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein targeting mitochondrial VDAC1, inducing apoptosis and mtDNA release
“These findings suggest that SARS-CoV-2 E-protein induces mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, and mtDNA release via VDAC1 modulation. mtDNA that accumulates in the blood activates the cGAS-STING pathway, triggering inflammatory cytokine and chemokine expression that contribute to the cytokine storm and tissue damage”
These findings suggest that SARS-CoV-2 E-protein induces mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, and mtDNA release via VDAC1 modulation. mtDNA that accumulates in the blood activates the cGAS-STING pathway, triggering inflammatory cytokine and chemokine expression that contribute to the cytokine storm and tissue damage
SARS-CoV-2 can cause lasting damage to cells’ energy production
“SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, can cause lasting damage to energy production by mitochondria in many organs of the body.
Stopping the virus from hijacking mitochondrial energy production may be a novel way to prevent serious complications from SARS-CoV-2 infection.”
