Covid-related alteration in the balance between pro-and anti/inflammatory bioactive lipids and cytokines

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INTRODUCTION
COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2), an enveloped virus, is composed of spike proteins (see Figure 1 for the structure of the virus) on their surface which utilize angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and the cellular protease transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) to enter target cells and lead to the clinical manifestations of the disease. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, the emergence of mutant strains is worrisome and has led to the continuation of the pandemic though at a low scale. Hence, it is necessary to develop other methods of inactivating the virus. In this context, it is noteworthy that certain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can inactive viruses. Furthermore, PUFAs and their metabolites can inlfuence the production and action of both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines that may account for some of the serious complications seen in COVID-19. In this context, understanding the interaction between PUFAs and their metabolites and cytokines may throw new light in the pathophysiology of COVID-19 and developing newer therapeutic strategies.