An astounding new research by Stony Brook University on Long Island has conclusively pointed out that getting seriously ill due to COVID-19 is similar to getting bit by a rattlesnake.
In an analysis published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, the researchers from the SUNY School wrote that they have identified an enzyme in the coronavirus that ravages the body like the neurotoxins from rattlesnake venom.
Source: Live Science (Image credit: Shutterstock)
The joint study by Stony Brook University, University of Arizona, and Wake Forest University went on to show that targeting the enzyme, which causes severe inflammation, could better treat and save the lives of COVID-19 patients amid the virus’ resurgence with the Delta variant.
The enzyme sPLA2-II has similarities to an active enzyme in rattlesnake venom that is typically found in low concentrations in healthy individuals and has long been known to play a critical role in humans’ defense against bacterial infections, the study says. But when the same enzyme circulates at high levels, it can “shred” the membranes of vital organs.
Co-author Doctor Maurizio Del Poeta of Stony Brook’s Renaissance School of Medicine stated that “The study supports a new therapeutic target to reduce or even prevent COVID-19 mortality. Because inhibitors of sPLA2-IIA already exist, our study supports the use of these inhibitors in patients with elevated levels of sPLA2-IIA to reduce, or even prevent, COVID-19 mortality.”
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