OpenTox Virtual Conference 2021 Session 6

Comparison of the expression of SARS-CoV-2 receptors in in vitro skin and lung models

The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused the pandemic associated with the severe acute pulmonary disease named COVID-19 (coronavirus disease  2019). The exact pathogenesis of severe COVID-19 remains unclear, but it typically involves a  hyperinflammatory response following viral infection and induces significant damage in the respiratory tract.  

The recommended hygiene procedures for the fight against COVID-19 include repeated handwashing and frequent use of hand sanitizer that can disrupt the skin barrier integrity. Loss of skin barrier integrity represents a potential transmission route for SARS-CoV-2 through the skin. 

The entry of SARS-CoV-2 in host cells depends on the availability of virus receptors and entry cofactors on the surface of host cells. The most important receptors identified so far are the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, the transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), and the  Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1), all three receptors are under the control of the Androgen Receptor (AR).  

In this talk, we will present the constitutive expression of SARS-CoV-2 key receptors; ACE2, TMPRSS2,  NRP1, and AR in primary culture of human epidermal keratinocytes and human dermal fibroblasts, in  3D-reconstructed human epidermis model and in human skin biopsies. Comparison will be made with  Calu-3 cell line and 3D-EpiAirway model, representing lung models. Moreover, the effect of stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (inflammatory agent) on the modulation of mRNA expression of cytokines markers and SARS-CoV-2 receptors will be measured and compared in the in vitro skin and lung models. 

CV: Manon Barthe is doing a Ph.D. research program at the University of Côte d’Azur and PKDERM The Ph.D. project is dealing with the impact of COVID-19 on the skin barrier and immune system and how to prevent infection of the skin with SARS-CoV-2. 

Manon has a Master of Science Degree in Health Engineering, Medicines and Health Products, mention  Pharmacokinetics from Aix-Marseille University and a Bachelor of Sciences in Technologies and Health,  mention Pharmacology from Clermont Auvergne University. From her university education, she gained solid biotechnology, pharmacokinetics, and modeling skills. She participated in several research projects, student programs, and internships. Manon is highly curious and fascinated by science and biotechnology. 

Manon Barthe is doing a Ph.D. research program at the University of Côte d’Azur and PKDERM The Ph.D. project is dealing with the impact of COVID-19 on the skin barrier and immune system and how to prevent infection of the skin with SARS-CoV-2. 

Manon has a Master of Science Degree in Health Engineering, Medicines and Health Products, mention  Pharmacokinetics from Aix-Marseille University and a Bachelor of Sciences in Technologies and Health,  mention Pharmacology from Clermont Auvergne University. From her university education, she gained solid biotechnology, pharmacokinetics, and modeling skills. She participated in several research projects, student programs, and internships. Manon is highly curious and fascinated by science and biotechnology.