Immune Dysfunction in Covid-19 Infections – time to think about improving immune health of the population

Current data shows that there is an age dependent increase in morbidity and mortality associated with Covid-19 pandemic.  For example, less that 0.1% mortality for children under 10 years while greater than 15% mortality for seniors over 80 years. 

There is also a sex dependent increase in mortality observed among men compared to women.  As much as 50% to 80% increased mortality is observed in men verses women in various countries.

Current data shows that the infection and mortality in current Covid-19 pandemic is age and sex biased. Our immune system, both native and adaptive, provide us protection from invading pathogens. Disease, morbidity and mortality occurs when our body defenses fail, and infections causes injury to our vital organs. This morbidity and mortality are linked to immune disfunction. As we age our immune systems weakens and can lead to increased diseases.  However, in case of Covid-19 a higher age-related sex related incidence is seen than normally observed with age.  This may be due to increased impaired immune responses linked lifestyle changes.  Unfortunately, we have not yet developed a paradigm for evaluating optimal immune response and mechanisms to modulate it positively to protect individual from infections.  

Extensive scientific evidence suggests a direct correlation between some of the immune modulating molecules in the body, especially those related to ACE2 which is the receptor by SAR-Cov-2, and protection in an age and sex related manner.  Nuclear hormones, including many sex hormones and vitamin-D plays crucial role in the regulation of immune response. 

We are developing a matrix assay for measurement of immune modulators and potential treatment to balance these modulators to provide best protection. Our hypothesis is that Covid-19 is an immunity and inflammation related disease and mortality is directly proportional to the immune status of the individual. Checking or measuring the immune and inflammation status biomarkers of affected individuals and modulating the immune response will provide protection.