Interleukin-17A (IL-17A): A silent amplifier of COVID-19

One of the hallmarks of COVID-19 is the cytokine storm that provokes primarily pneumonia followed by systemic inflammation. Emerging evidence has identified a potential link between elevated interleukin-17A (IL-17A) levels and disease severity and progression. Considering that per se, IL-17A can activate several inflammatory pathways, it is plausible to hypothesize an involvement of this cytokine in COVID-19 clinical outcomes. Thus, IL17A could represent a marker of disease progression and/or a target to develop therapeutic strategies. This hypothesis paper aims to propose this unique cytokine as a silent amplifier of the COVID-19 immune response and (potentially) related therapy.

Automated summary

Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between elevated IL-17A levels and the severity and progression of COVID-19. Considering its ability to activate inflammatory pathways, IL-17A may play a role in the clinical outcomes of COVID-19.