Macrophage Activation in Follicular Conjunctivitis during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Carla Enrica Gallenga, Martina Maritati, Marco Mura, Francesco di Virgilio, Pio Conti, Carlo Contini

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Among the symptoms of SARS-CoV-2, follicular conjunctivitis has become relevant. The conjunctiva acts as an open lymph node, reacting to the viral antigen that binds the epithelial cells, forming follicles of B cells with activated T cells and NK cells on its surface, which, in turn, talk to monocyte-derived inflammatory infected macrophages. Here, the NLRP3 inflammasome is a major driver in releasing pro-inflammatory factors such as IL-6 and caspase-1, leading to follicular conjunctivitis and bulbar congestion, even as isolated signs in the ‘asymptomatic’ patient.
Original languageEnglish
Article number2198
JournalMicroorganisms
Volume11
Issue number9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Sept 2023

Keywords

  • ACE2&TMPRSS2
  • COVID-19
  • P2X7R
  • follicular conjunctivitis
  • macrophages and activated T cells

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