Chemokines and chemokine receptors during COVID-19 infection

Chemokines are crucial inflammatory mediators needed during an immune response to clear pathogens. However, their excessive release is the main cause of hyperinflammation. In the recent COVID-19 outbreak, chemokines may be the direct cause of acute respiratory disease syndrome, a major complication leading to death in about 40% of severe cases. Several clinical investigations revealed that chemokines are directly involved in the different stages of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Here, we review the role of chemokines and their receptors in COVID-19 pathogenesis to better understand the disease immunopathology which may aid in developing possible therapeutic targets for the infection. (C) 2021 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Research Network of Computational and Structural Biotechnology.

Automated summary

Chemokines play a crucial role in the immune response by clearing pathogens, but their excessive release can lead to hyperinflammation and severe complications. In COVID-19, chemokines may directly cause acute respiratory distress syndrome, increasing the risk of death. Understanding the role of chemokines in COVID-19 pathogenesis is important for developing potential therapeutic targets.