Targeting the Complement Cascade in the Pathophysiology of COVID-19 Disease

Severe coronavirus disease 2019 causes multi-organ dysfunction with significant morbidity and mortality. Mounting evidence implicates maladaptive over-activation of innate immune pathways such as the complement cascade as well as endothelial dysfunction as significant contributors to disease progression. We review the complement pathways, the effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on these pathways, and promising therapeutic targets in clinical trials.

Automated summary

Severe coronavirus disease 2019 leads to multi-organ dysfunction mainly due to maladaptive activation of innate immune pathways and endothelial dysfunction. Clinical trials show that targeting the complement pathways is a promising therapeutic approach.