How the coronavirus affects lung cells

Researchers have deciphered the chain of molecular responses in human lung cells to infection with the new coronavirus.According to analysts, this advance could help identify clinically approved medicines that can be reused. COVID-19 (new coronavirus infection) (# If there is no character limit, add parentheses when it first appears processing. Read again- 38 UK returnees tested positive for COVID-19 in London. 4 new strains detected

This study, published in Immunity, may contribute to the future treatment of COVID-19, among other diseases. Read again- COVID-19 LiveUpdate: Indian cases surged to 10,244,852 and deaths reached 1,48,439

The structure of the lungs exposes the lungs to viruses and bacteria from both air and blood. Macrophages are, among other things, immune cells that protect the lungs from such attacks.However, under certain conditions, lung macrophages can also contribute to severe lung disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. disease (COPD) and COVID-19. Read again- COVID-19 vaccine not yet approved in India: SII, drug regulator analyzing Bharat Biotech data

To date, research on the development of human lung macrophages has been limited.

How Blood Monocytes Become Human Lung Macrophages

Researchers used a model to study the development of lung macrophages directly in the living lung. It was combined with a method of studying the genetic activity of individual cells, the RNA sequence, to discover how blood monocytes become human lung macrophages.

This study shows how classical monocytes migrate to the airways and lung tissue and are transformed into macrophages that protect health and function. lung..

“We have identified a special type of monocyte, HLA-DRhi, which is an intermediate immune cell between blood monocytes and airway macrophages,” said one of the researchers.

What is an HLA-DRhi monocyte?

These HLA-DRhi monocytes can leave the blood circulation and migrate to lung tissue.

Macrophages are, among other things, immune cells that protect the lungs from such attacks.

However, under certain conditions, lung macrophages can also contribute to severe lung disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and Covid-19.

How nonclassical monocytes develop into macrophages

However, non-classical monocytes develop into macrophages in many blood vessels of the lung and do not migrate to lung tissue.

In infection with new coronavirus SARS-COV-2, Causes Covid-19, researchers believe that protective, anti-inflammatory macrophages are replaced by pro-inflammatory lung macrophages from blood monocytes.

“Given their important role in the rapid inflammatory response, our results show that future treatments will focus on inflammatory macrophages and monocytes to reduce lung damage and mortality from severe Covid-19. It shows that it should be, “Willinger said.

How does the coronavirus attack your body?

The virus that has caused havoc in humans has a very unique way to infect you. Wondering how it gets into your body? Now, there are many studies that have answered this question, but you need to know that this virus infects your body by invading healthy cells. There, the intruder makes a copy of itself and propagates throughout your body. Coronavirus latches its pointed surface proteins into receptors in healthy cells, especially the lungs. Specifically, viral proteins rupture into cells via the ACE2 receptor. Once inside, the coronavirus hijacks and takes command of healthy cells. Ultimately, it kills some of the healthy cells.

What happens when the coronavirus enters your body?

When the coronavirus invades the body, it first binds to two cells in the lung, the goblet cells that produce mucus and the ciliated cells that have hair. The function of these cells is to keep the lungs safe from external dust and contamination. They usually prevent the lungs from filling with debris and liquids such as viruses, bacteria, dust and pollen particles.

After entering the body, the coronavirus attacks these cells and begins to kill them. As a result, the lungs begin to fill with fluid, making it difficult to breathe. Studies show that this particular stage of the disease lasts about a week.

At this point, your immune system begins to attack and repel the invader coronavirus. It is during this time that you have a fever. It also begins to remove mucus in the form of a cough or runny nose.

However, in some people, especially the elderly and other healthy people, the immune system can overdrive. Not only does it kill the virus, it also begins to kill healthy cells.

Now because you know what actually happens in your body COVID-19 virus enter. It is also important to understand how it affects your lungs and other organs.

How to keep yourself safe?

The best thing you can do to stop the virus is to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. Touch your face and other body parts, especially before eating. Always carry a hand sanitizer and wear a high quality mask to protect yourself. Also, do not use the same mask twice. You can use a cotton mask to wash it off as soon as you get home. Alternatively, you can get some face masks to use and throw.

When the virus touches the nose, eyes, or mouth, it is most likely to enter the body through one’s contaminated hands. Therefore, keeping your hands clean is very important. Also, try to maintain a social distance. Try to eat healthy and include fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C in your diet. why? Because this can boost your immunity and help your body stay safe from the new coronavirus.

(With input from IANS)

Release date: December 31, 2020 15:12