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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

SARS-COV-2 and Ocular Surface: From Physiology to Pathology, a Route to Understand Transmission and Disease

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Author(s):
Santoro, Dalton de Freitas [1] ; de Sousa, Luciene Barbosa [1] ; Camara, Niels O. S. [2, 3] ; de Freitas, Denise [1] ; de Oliveira, Lauro Augusto [1]
Total Authors: 5
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Fed Sao Paulo, Dept Ophthalmol & Visual Sci, Sao Paulo, SP - Brazil
[2] Univ Fed Sao Paulo, Nephrol Div, Sao Paulo, SP - Brazil
[3] Univ Sao Paulo, Inst Biomed Sci 4, Dept Immunol, Sao Paulo, SP - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 3
Document type: Review article
Source: FRONTIERS IN PHYSIOLOGY; v. 12, FEB 12 2021.
Web of Science Citations: 5
Abstract

Coronaviruses gained public attention during the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak in East Asia in 2003 and spread of Middle Eastern respiratory syndrome (MERS) in 2012. Direct human-to-human contact and droplet are the main methods of transmission. Viral stability in aerosols on different surfaces supports evidence on indirect viral acquisition from fomites through the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, and eyes. Given the pandemic circumstances, the level of evidence in COVID-19 and ophthalmology regarding eye infection, conjunctival transmission, and viral shedding through tears is insufficient. Presently, conjunctival transmission of coronaviruses has not been confirmed and remains controversial. Considering the physiology of the lacrimal system and ocular surface, the eyes are considered an immunoprotective site, with several antiviral molecules and anti-inflammatory proteins. Nevertheless, they represent an interface with the exterior world and face daily putative aggressors. Understanding the host's ocular surface immunological and protective environment is crucial to clarify the potential of the conjunctiva as an entry route for SARS-CoV-2 and as part of this viral infection. We will discuss hypothetical ocular surface transmission mechanisms and related counterarguments addressed to both angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors found on the conjunctival and corneal epithelia and lactoferrin, lysozyme, lipocalin and secretory IgA levels in the tear film. Hopefully, we will promote better understanding of this organ in COVID-19 infection and the potential transmission route that can be helpful in setting recommendations on best practices and protective guidelines to mitigate the disease spread. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 17/05264-7 - Cell metabolism, microbiota and immune system: new paradigms in renal diseases physiopathology
Grantee:Niels Olsen Saraiva Câmara
Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants