The Role of Antioxidants in the Covıd-19 Pandemic


Demir H., Kaçmaz R.

International Journal of Biochemistry & Physiology (IJBP), cilt.5, sa.3, ss.3-8, 2020 (Hakemli Dergi)

Özet

Covid-19 disease caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which has spread rapidly in many countries, was declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11, 2020. Covid-19 disease poses a threat to the health systems and economies of countries. Covid-19 is taken into the cell by endocytosis by binding to Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (Angiotensin-Con-verting Enzyme 2, ACE 2), which is found in alveolar macrophages, monocytes and epithelial cells in the respiratory system as a host cell receptor. Here the replicated virus is released intracellularly and infects other target cells. Studies have reported that the cytokine storm that causes the clinical course of Covid-19 patients to deteriorate can be relieved with antioxidant agents. Since there is no drug or other therapeutic substance currently approved for the treatment of Covid-19 disease, keeping the immune system active and strong is vital in terms of preventing and managing the disease. The most important factor in strengthening immunity and protecting health; It is an optimal diet that is adequate and balanced in terms of macronutrients and rich in micronutrients. Experimental studies have shown that antioxidant vitamins (A, C and E), omega-3 fatty acids, pre / probiotics and trace elements (zinc, selenium) play key roles in supporting the human immune system and reducing the risk of infection. In this study, the role of antioxidant substances known to have an important role in the immune system in terms of prevention and treatment of Covid-19 infection was examined.