Distribution of ACE2, CD147, CD26, and other SARS‐CoV‐2 associated molecules in tissues and immune cells in health and in asthma, COPD, obesity, hypertension, and COVID‐19 risk factors

Abstract Background Morbidity and mortality from COVID‐19 caused by novel coronavirus SARS‐CoV‐2 is accelerating worldwide, and novel clinical presentations of COVID‐19 are often reported. The range of human cells and tissues targeted by SARS‐CoV‐2, its potential receptors and associated regulating factors are still largely unknown. The aim of our study was to analyze the expression of known and potential SARS‐CoV‐2 receptors and related molecules in the extensive collection of primary human cells and tissues from healthy subjects of different age and from patients with risk factors and known comorbidities of COVID‐19. Methods We performed RNA sequencing and explored available RNA‐Seq databases to study gene…

• S
  Sanofi
• RP
  Regeneron Pharmaceuticals
• SN
  Schweizerischer Nationalfonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung