El sistema inmune y la infección por SARS-CoV-2. ¿Son los antioxidantes una terapia preventiva?

Resumen

The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) causes severe acute respiratory distress syndrome COVID-19. An increased production of oxygen reactive species along with disturbance of antioxidant systems are present in respiratory viral infections, such as COVID-19. We provide an overview about the role of antioxidants in immune system and the effect of ascorbic acid, tocopheroles, carotenoids and retinoids in a viral infection. The immunostimulant effects of vitamin C are related to an increase in cellular and humoral response as well as antinflammatory and antiviral effects. Vitamin C plays an important role for reversing the endothelial damage, hence supporting the use of ascorbate in preventing COVID-19 and its vascular complications in infected subjects. Also, Vitamin C prevents the pro-oxidant activity of vitamin E. Antioxidant protection of immune cells and decreased the pro-inflammatory cytokines are effects attributed to vitamin E. The immune regulatory role of this vitamin could be relevant for reducing the risk of respiratory diseases, such as influenza and pneumonia or COVID-19. Vitamin A is vital for maintaining the integrity of mucosal and epithelia as part of the primary unspecific defense mechanisms, and for cellular and humoral immune response. The incorporation of exogenous antioxidants such as vitamins C, E and A, in well tolerated doses may be useful as supporting therapy during the active period of the disease and the recovery stage.