SARS-Cov-2 Contributing Factors, Triggering the Risk of Autoimmune Diseases

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2 leads to irregularities in immune response regulation and is believed to contribute to autoimmune diseases, highlighting a significant link between viral infections and autoimmune diseases. This connection arises from the molecular and immunological interactions between the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the host. Autoimmunity can be triggered by various factors that create an overly stimulated immune system. The virus activates both innate and adaptive immunity, which can result in disease progression. COVID-19 disrupts normal antiviral immunity and plays a role in the onset of autoimmune diseases. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon, including molecular mimicry, bystander activation of T-cells, transient immunosuppression, and inflammation. Additionally, vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 may also provoke autoimmunity. In this review, we explore the various factors through which SARS-CoV-2 may contribute to autoimmune diseases, aiming to minimize the risk of developing such conditions following COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.