Determining the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection, dopamine, and COVID-19 complications

• Published in: Journal of Taibah University Medical Sciences Vol. 15; no. 6; pp. 550 - 553
• Main Authors: Khalefah, Muad M., Khalifah, Ayman M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Saudi Arabia Elsevier Ltd 01.12.2020; Taibah University; Elsevier
• Subjects: Brief Communication; Central nervous system infection; COVID-19; Dopamine; SARS-CoV-2; COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; Dopamine; Central nervous system infection
• ISSN: 1658-3612; 1658-3612
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2020.10.006

There is compelling evidence that aged, immunosuppressed, and chronically ill patients are a high-risk group for increased mortality upon infection with the new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This study investigated the contribution of morbidities and related prescribed medications to COVID-19 associated mortality. Based on the various recently reported clinical scenarios a theoretical framework was designed to shed light on the mode of infection of the central nervous system by SARS-CoV-2 and possible management options. Dopamine-release mechanisms in the central nervous system may play a major role in the entry and propagation of coronaviruses. This study emphasizes the need for a thorough and urgent investigation of the dopamine-release pathways in the central nervous system. These efforts will help find a definitive cure for the pandemic coronavirus disease (COVID-19).