News — COVID-19

Virus-induced actions are associated with oxidative stress and cellular damage. (1) Viruses can effect the cell pro-antioxidant balance by increasing cellular pro-oxidants free radicals and inhibiting the synthesis of antioxidant enzymes. Viral infections have shown that they can trigger the immune system to create cascading release of pro-inflammatory cytokines ("cytokine storm") which can lead to organ failure. (2) In addition, oxidative stress is associated with Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). ARDS is a problem in intensive care units (ICU's) because of it's frequency and low survival rate of less that 50%. The problem is compounded during this epidemic as it...