Renal consequences of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and
hydrogen sulfide as a potential therapy
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, is
a global pandemic which is primarily considered a respiratory illness.
However, emerging reports show that the virus exhibits both pulmonary
and extra-pulmonary manifestations in humans, with the kidney as a major
extra-pulmonary target due to its abundant expression of
angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and transmembrane protease serine 2,
which facilitate entry of the virus into cells. Acute kidney injury has
become prevalent in COVID-19 patients without prior any history of
kidney dysfunction. In addition, the virus also worsens kidney
conditions and increases mortality of COVID-19 patients with
pre-existing chronic kidney disease, renal cancer, diabetic nephropathy,
end-stage kidney disease as well as dialysis and kidney transplant
patients. In the search for antiviral agents for the treatment of
COVID-19, hydrogen sulfide (H2S), the third established member of
gasotransmitter family, is emerging as a potential candidate, possessing
important therapeutic properties including antiviral, anti-inflammatory,
anti-thrombotic and antioxidant properties. A recent clinical study
revealed higher serum H2S levels in survivors of COVID-19 pneumonia with
reduced interleukin-6 levels compared to fatal cases. In this review, we
summarize the global impact of COVID-19 on kidney conditions and discuss
the emerging role of H2S as a potential COVID-19 therapy.