Abstract

COVID-19 invades human cells with its homotrimer spike glycoprotein (SPK) located in the viral envelope by binding to its target human receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), as well as is responsible for having its own negative physiological and cellular effects. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of SPK on U937 (human histiocytic lymphoma) cells while highlighting the mitigating effects of artemisinin (A1) and artesunate (A2) on SPK pathogenesis. This research utilizes MTT, LDH, caspase, cell adhesion, ELISA, and molecular docking assays to determine the effects of these chemicals on various cellular parameters such as cellular survival, cytotoxicity, necrosis, apoptosis, adhesion, and cytokine expression. The results support that SPK has many negative effects on U937 cells such as decreased cell survival, as well as increased cytotoxicity, necrosis, apoptosis, adhesion, and cytokine expression. These negative effects were significantly mitigated by individual treatments of A1 or A2. Additionally, results from the LDH and caspase assays suggest that A1 and A2 may have protective effects against general cellular damage, necrosis, and apoptosis, while also limiting the direct effects of SPK. Future studies must continue to evaluate the effects of these chemicals on cellular and animal models, as well as determine the safety and efficacy of higher doses. This study is limited by using a single cell line (U937) and by concentrations of A1 and A2 being used (1μM and 10μM). Overall, this research supports that A1 and A2 may be potential candidates for mitigating SPK induced adverse effects. 

Key words: Artemisinin, Artesunate, apoptosis, Covid-19, vaccine side effects.