Researchers from Vanderbilt University Medical Center have recently reported results from a laboratory investigation into Covid-19 infectivity in mice and humans. The virus that causes Covid-19, namely SARS-Cov2 appears to require the receptor protein called ACE2 in order to dock onto human cells via its’ spike protein. Another molecule called TMPRSS2 then snips off the spike to allow the virus genetic material to enter the cell. Consider ACE2 as the gate and TMPRSS2 as the gatekeeper. This is the way in which the coronavirus enters cells including those in the respiratory pathway. This would mean that not having one or both of these proteins – or having less of them – would be beneficial in preventing the SARS-Cov2 virus from entering and infecting cells.
Research Points to Lower Infectivity in Children
Studies done in mice as well as humans are underway to look at whether there is a difference in the presence of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in groups belonging to different genders, age or other demographics. The Vanderbilt group has observed in their initial investigation that the gatekeeper- TMPRSS2 was low during early development and increased in lung cells with age. The results were published in the November 12th issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation. The research was part of a larger collaborative effort that included over 60 investigators.
TMPRSS2 blocking drugs already available for Prostate Cancer
TMPRSS2 is already known to be present in lungs, the nose, prostate, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys and pancreas. Interestingly, the with highest expression levels of TMPRSS2 was found in the prostate. There are drugs already in use for prostate cancer that block TMPRSS2 and provide a method for stopping coronavirus SARS-Cov2 from infecting humans. The Prostate Cancer Foundation has embarked on clinical trials to combat Covid-19.
A Diamond in the Rough
Good news is hard to come by during a pandemic. It is reassuring to know that rapid advancements are being made owing to the tireless efforts of medical and scientific workers across the globe. Donations are possible to support the research at the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Support PCF's Research and Fight Back Against COVID-19 - Prostate Cancer Foundation.
Bibliography
Snyder, Bill. “Why Does COVID-19 Seem to Spare Children? Vanderbilt University Medical Center Study Offers an Answer .” Vanderbilt University, Vanderbilt University, 18 Nov. 1970, news.vumc.org/2020/11/18/why-does-covid-19-seem-to-spare-children-vanderbilt-university-medical-center-study-offers-an-answer/.
“TMPRSS2 And COVID-19.” Prostate Cancer Foundation, 24 June 2020, www.pcf.org/covid-19/tmprss2-and-covid-19/.
