Regulation of interferon production as a potential strategy for COVID-19 treatment

TL;DR

Targeting upstream regulators of interferon production, such as cGAS, ALK, and STING, offers a promising therapeutic approach for COVID-19 by preventing cytokine storms, with existing drugs like suramin and ALK inhibitors being potential candidates.

Contribution

This paper highlights the potential of targeting upstream cytokine regulators, specifically cGAS, ALK, and STING, as a novel strategy for COVID-19 treatment.

Findings

Dysregulated IFN-I production is linked to COVID-19 severity.

Approved drugs like suramin and ALK inhibitors may be repurposed for therapy.

Targeting upstream regulators could prevent cytokine storm in COVID-19.

Abstract

Regulating the upstream of the cytokines production could be a promising strategy to the treatment of COVID-19. We suggest to pay more attention to the dysregulated IFN-I production in COVID-19 and to considerate cGAS, ALK and STING as potential therapeutic targets preventing cytokine storm. Approved drugs like suramin and ALK inhibitors are worthy of clinical trials.