Insights into the modulation of the interferon response and NAD+ in the context of COVID-19.

Habeichi, Nada J; Tannous, Cynthia; Yabluchanskiy, Andriy; Altara, Raffaele; Mericskay, Mathias; Booz, George W; Zouein, Fouad A

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has resulted in dramatic worldwide mortality. Along with developing vaccines, the medical profession is exploring new strategies to curb this pandemic. A better understanding of the molecular consequences of SARS-CoV-2 cellular infection could lead to more effective and safer treatments. This review discusses the potential underlying impact of SARS-CoV-2 in modulating interferon (IFN) secretion and in causing mitochondrial NAD+ depletion that could be directly linked to COVID-19's deadly manifestations. What is known or surmised about an imbalanced innate immune response and mitochondrial dysfunction post-SARS-CoV-2 infection, and the potential benefits of well-timed IFN treatments and NAD+ boosting therapies in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic are discussed.