Targeted Mitochondrial Therapy With Over-Expressed MAVS Protein From Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A New Therapeutic Approach for COVID-19

The SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, has infected millions of people worldwide. The symptoms of this disease are primarily due to pulmonary involvement, uncontrolled tissue inflammation, and inadequate immune response against the invader virus. Impaired interferon (IFN) production is one of the leading causes of the immune system's inability to control the replication of the SARS-CoV-2. Mitochondria play an essential role in developing and maintaining innate cellular immunity and IFN production. Mitochondrial function is impaired during cellular stress, affecting cell bioenergy and innate immune responses. The mitochondrial antiviral-signaling protein (MAVS), located in the outer membrane of mitochondria, is one of the key elements in engaging the innate immune system and interferon production. Transferring healthy mitochondria to the damaged cells by mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is a proposed option for regenerative medicine and a viable treatment approach to many diseases. In addition to mitochondrial transport, these cells can regulate inflammation, repair the damaged tissue, and control the pathogenesis of COVID-19. The immune regulatory nature of MSCs dramatically reduces the probability of an immune rejection. In order to induce an appropriate immune response against the SARS-CoV-2, we hypothesize to donate mitochondria to the host cells of the virus. We consider MSCs as an appropriate biological carrier for mitochondria. Besides, enhancing the expression of MAVS protein in MSCs and promoting the expression of SARS-CoV-2 viral spike protein as a specific ligand for ACE2(+) cells will improve IFN production and innate immune responses in a targeted manner.