Infection of red blood cells by SARS-CoV-2: new evidence

Implication of COVID-19 on Erythrocytes Functionality: Red Blood Cell Biochemical Implications and Morpho-Functional Aspects

“…Others experience a seemingly well state, in which the lungs do not appear severely damaged despite insufficient blood oxygenation (silent hypoxia) [19]. These conditions have led several research groups to suppose a direct involvement of erythrocytes in Coronavirus infections [20][21][22]. Cosic et al, in 2020, through studies performed with the Resonant Recognition Model (RRM), proposed RBCs as an alternative point of access to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which, by entering through the alveoli membrane in the lung, reaches the bloodstream [21].…”

“…Cosic et al, in 2020, through studies performed with the Resonant Recognition Model (RRM), proposed RBCs as an alternative point of access to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which, by entering through the alveoli membrane in the lung, reaches the bloodstream [21]. In the blood, SARS-CoV-2 infects RBCs through the binding between S1 Spike protein and Band-3 protein on the erythrocyte membrane [20]. Moreover, Band-3 has already been indicated as a binding receptor for protozoan parasites, such as Plasmodium falciparum [23].…”

“…Last but not least, it has been shown that Band-3 protein is associated with RBC membrane in a macro-complex that coordinates the shape of the cell (by the cytoskeletal proteins bound), carbon dioxide uptake (by the action of Carbonic anhydrase II bound to the C-terminal domain of Band-3), and the oxygen release from Hb (by the Bhor effect and by the direct binding between the cytoplasmic domain of Band-3 and deoxygenated Hb) [32]. In this context the attack of S1 Spike protein to Band-3 protein on the erythrocyte membrane [20] may affect the release of oxygen to metabolically active tissues.…”

Underreporting of Cases During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Worrying Warning for Africa

“…Moreover, given the potential severity of the disease [5][6][7], the circulation of SARS-CoV-2 variants, and the low vaccination rates against COVID-19 across the African territory [8], it is imminent that governments and health authorities strengthen local surveillance actions [9]. Increased funding towards COVID-19 screening centers may further guarantee access to appropriate treatment and preventative health services in response to the high-cost supplies for the management of severe cases [10,11].…”

Modified Hemagglutination Tests for COVID-19 Serology in Resource-Poor Settings: Ready for Prime-Time?

“…Esmail et al coated group O Rh(D)-positive RBCs with the Spike RBD or the RNA-binding domain of the nucleocapsid (N-RBD) protein through streptavidin–biotin mediated coupling and showed a correlation with an ACE2-binding surrogate VNT [ 26 ].…”