Journal article

Age-related differences in SARS-CoV-2 binding factors: An explanation for reduced susceptibility to severe COVID-19 among children?

T Abrehart, R Suryadinata, C McCafferty, J Jacobson, V Ignjatovic, P Robinson, NW Crawford, P Monagle, K Subbarao, C Satzke, D Wurzel

Paediatric Respiratory Reviews | Published : 2022

Abstract

Context: In contrast with other respiratory viruses, children infected with SARS-CoV-2 are largely spared from severe COVID-19. Objectives: To critically assess age-related differences in three host proteins involved in SARS-CoV-2 cellular entry: angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) and furin. Methods: We systematically searched Medline, Embase, and PubMed databases for relevant publications. Studies were eligible if they evaluated ACE2, TMPRSS2 or furin expression, methylation, or protein level in children. Results: Sixteen papers were included. Age-dependent differences in membrane-bound and soluble ACE2 were shown in several studies, with ACE2 ..

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