The role of bradykinin in the de velopment of COVID-19 and other diseases

Abstract

The literature review is devoted to the involvement of bradykinin (BK) in the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) development caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and other pathological conditions, as well as the possibility of using some drugs that affect the signaling of the above-mentioned nanopeptide. ВК is a potent short-lived vasoactive compound that acts as a vasodilator and mediator of inflammation in various signaling cascades. It is part of the kallikrein-kinin system (KKS), which is part of the reninangiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which plays a key role in the pathogenesis of COVID-19. As a factor of KKS, BK depends on other components necessary for its synthesis and maintenance. It is currently hypothesized that the BK pathway is deregulated in patients with COVID-19, leading to various complicated respiratory diseases. The cytokine and BK storm theories offer an explanation for the variety of symptoms and organ systems affected following SARS-CoV-2 infection. The data presented in the review indicate that BК is a molecule of enormous therapeutic potential that deservedly requires appropriate attention. It has been established that the consequence of increased BК formation is severe multisymptomatic pathological changes in the case of COVID-19 infection. Because KKS is significantly affected by COVID-19, there are many mediators that can contribute to disease severity. Therefore, modulation of BK signaling is an important aspect of therapy for COVID-19. The effects of BK have been shown to be offset by some compounds that are B2R antagonists. Factors of the BK pathway and cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-1 may be key to the use of blockers, even as adjuvants. Thus, to prevent severe complications caused by COVID-19 and to improve the results of treatment of this infectious disease, it is necessary to pharmacologically target ККS components related to BK, mainly kinin receptors.