A metabolic blueprint of COVID-19 and long-term vaccine efficacy

Drug Metab Pers Ther. 2022 Sep 28;38(1):15-29. doi: 10.1515/dmpt-2022-0148. eCollection 2023 Mar 1.

Abstract

Viruses are obligatory protein-coated units and often utilize the metabolic functions of the cells they infect. Viruses hijack cellular metabolic functions and cause consequences that can range from minor to devastating, as we have all witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic. For understanding the virus-driven pathogenesis and its implications on the host, the cellular metabolism needs to be elucidated. How SARS-CoV-2 triggers metabolic functions and rewires the metabolism remains unidentified but the implications of the metabolic patterns are under investigation by several researchers. In this review, we have described the SARS-CoV-2-mediated metabolic alterations from in vitro studies to metabolic changes reported in victims of COVID-19. We have also discussed potential therapeutic targets to diminish the viral infection and suppress the inflammatory response, with respect to evidenced studies based on COVID-19 research. Finally, we aimed to explain how we could extend vaccine-induced immunity in people by targeting the immunometabolism.

Keywords: COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; immune therapy; metabolic drugs; metabolism; vaccination.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Pandemics / prevention & control
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Vaccine Efficacy