The Correlation between HSP27 Protein Levels and Gene Expression with Symptoms Severity in COVID-19 Patients

 Heat shock proteins (HSPs) have garnered significant interest as a potential host factor in COVID-19. By exerting control over HSP levels, the invading virus can effectively manipulate the destiny of host cells, capitalizing on their essential roles in cellular pathways and viral life cycles. Within this investigation, we present novel findings elucidating the variations in HSP27 protein and mRNA expression between patients exhibiting mild symptoms and those manifesting moderate-to-severe symptoms of COVID-19, juxtaposed against a control cohort.

 A total of 102 patient samples were included in the study, comprising 54 individuals with moderate-to-severe COVID-19 symptoms and 48 with mild symptoms. Additionally, 42 samples from healthy individuals constituted the control group. HSP27 protein levels were quantified using ELISA, while the transcript content was assessed using Real-Time PCR.

 Our initial findings revealed a statistically significant reduction in serum HSP27 levels among patients displaying mild COVID-19 symptoms when compared to the control group (P< 0.05). Nonetheless, this disparity did not achieve statistical significance in patients with moderate-to-severe symptoms. In contrast, the transcriptomic profile of HSP27 exhibited striking similarity across all groups, including mild, moderate-to-severe, and controls (P=0.25 and P=0.56, respectively).

 The present study, to date, is the first to investigate HSP27 gene expression levels in COVID-19 patients. Conducting further studies on HSP27 is of considerable help to clarify the importance of this molecule in SARS-CoV-2 infection.