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Critical Care
Published in: Critical Care 1/2020

Open Access 01-12-2020 | Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus | Viewpoint

Molecular mechanisms of sex bias differences in COVID-19 mortality

Authors: Yuchong Li, Mirjana Jerkic, Arthur S. Slutsky, Haibo Zhang

Published in: Critical Care | Issue 1/2020

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Abstract

More men than women have died from COVID-19. Genes encoded on X chromosomes, and sex hormones may explain the decreased fatality of COVID-19 in women. The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 gene is located on X chromosomes. Men, with a single X chromosome, may lack the alternative mechanism for cellular protection after exposure to SARS-CoV-2. Some Toll-like receptors encoded on the X chromosomes can sense SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acids, leading to a stronger innate immunity response in women. Both estrogen and estrogen receptor-α contribute to T cell activation. Interventional approaches including estrogen-related compounds and androgen receptor antagonists may be considered in patients with COVID-19.
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Metadata
Title
Molecular mechanisms of sex bias differences in COVID-19 mortality
Authors
Yuchong Li
Mirjana Jerkic
Arthur S. Slutsky
Haibo Zhang
Publication date
01-12-2020
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Critical Care / Issue 1/2020
Electronic ISSN: 1364-8535
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13054-020-03118-8

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