The potential roles of micronutrient deficiency and immune system dysfunction in COVID-19 pandemic

Gorji, Ali; Ghadiri, Maryam Khaleghi

Preliminary studies indicate that a robust immune response across different cell types is crucial in the recovery from COVID-19. An enormous number of investigations point to the vital importance of various micronutrients in the interactions between the host immune system and viruses, including COVID-19. There are complex and multifaceted links between micronutrient status, the host immune response, and the virulence of pathogenic viruses. Micronutrients play a critical role in the coordinated recruitment of innate and adaptive immune responses to viral infections, particularly in the regulation of pro-and anti-inflammatory host responses. Furthermore, inadequate amounts of micronutrients not only weaken the immune system in combating viral infections, but also contribute to the emergence of more virulent strains via alterations of the genetic make-up of the viral genome. This study aimed to evaluate the evidence which suggests the contribution of micronutrients in the spread as well as the morbidity and mortality of COVID-19. Both the presence of micronutrient deficiencies among infected subjects and the effect of micronutrient supplementation on the immune responses and overall outcome of the disease could be of great interest to weigh the use of micronutrients in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 infection. These investigations could be of great value in dealing with future viral epidemics.