Scientists from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden have discovered several types of cells that play a key role in the immune response to the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and contribute to hyperphosphatemia observed in life-threatening cases. The causes of complications are called in the Cell Reports article Medicine.
The researchers analyzed blood samples taken from patients with severe COVID-19. It turned out that white blood cells called eosinophils play an important role in the development of complications. These cells are found in abundance in the blood shortly before the patients develop an excessive inflammatory response in the lungs and acute respiratory distress syndrome, requiring intensive care. In addition, other white cells — basophils — involved in the development of a strong immune response during infection.
Earlier it was reported that scientists at the University of Kansas (USA) has successfully tested a therapeutic tool against coronavirus. It turned out that 3C-like protease, 3CLpro is known as, is a major enzyme in the development of COVID-19. Protease inhibitors help to fight against the coronavirus.
