SARS-CoV-2 Targeting the Retina: Host-virus Interaction and Possible Mechanisms of Viral Tropism

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 10 (SARS-CoV-2). Recent studies demonstrated not only retinal impairments but also detected SARS-CoV-2 in the retina of patients with COVID-19. Purpose: This letter discusses the retinal tropism of SARS-CoV-2, describing possible routes for this coronavirus to reach the retina and cellular mechanisms involved in the retinal cell infection. Conclusions: Determining how SARS-CoV-2 can affect the retinal tissue is essential for the development of new therapeutic strategies and preventive measures, as well as for understanding the possible relationship between COVID-19 damage to the retina and to the brain.