Figure 5

Schematic view of SARS-CoV-2 infection and potential mechanisms of symptom generation involving significantly altered metabolites. (1) After viral entry into the cell an increase in lipid generation occurs through viral hijacking of cell machinery. (2) Lipids are used to generate double membrane vesicles for replication. (3) Release of new Coronavirus. (A) SARS-CoV-2 leads to an elevation in oxidative stress by generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). (B) Decreased levels of Carnosine results in a reduced ability for antioxidant clearance of ROS. (C) Oxidative stress and inflammation can damage the lungs and lead to further symptoms of COVID-19. (D) Reduction of Carnosine within the cells of the olfactory may be implicated in anosmia, a common symptom of COVID-19.