Fig. 1: Proposed model for the development of SARS-CoV-2 induced osteoarthritis. | npj Viruses

Fig. 1: Proposed model for the development of SARS-CoV-2 induced osteoarthritis.

From: Cracking the code: ET-1 signaling unlocks new therapies for virus-induced osteoarthritis

Fig. 1

SARS-CoV-2 infection induces osteochondral damage by activating the interaction between the viral spike protein and the ET-1 signaling pathway. ET-1 increases vascular permeability, facilitating the infiltration of inflammatory cells into joint tissues and elevating levels of TNF, IL-6, and IL-1β. The spike protein activates RANKL, disrupting the RANKL-OPG balance, while also upregulating MMP1 and MMP13, leading to collagen breakdown, bone resorption, and cartilage degradation. The effect of ET-1 can be mitigated by using Macitentan, which helps alleviate SARS-CoV-2-induced joint damage.

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