Dr.Sharon Dsouza

Dr. ROHIT SHETTY, Dr.Gairik Kundu, Dr.Pooja Khamar

Abstract

Aim: To study expression of cellular genes needed by SARS-CoV2 virus for infection& host protective response &finding possible targets for COVID prophylaxis and therapy

Methods: Cadaveric eyes were dissected by layers-corneal epithelium,stroma,conjunctival epithelium,iris, lens,retina etc (n=5). Pro-viral host genes(ACE2,TMPRSS2,endosomal trafficking) &anti-viral response genes(IFN-α, IFN-ɣ)measured. Since oral chloroquine(CQ) is in trial as COVID therapy, we tested anti-viral response after treating corneal epithelial cells with CQ or Trehalose

Results: Proviral host genes likeACE2 expressed on layers of ocular tissue suggesting susceptibility to infection.Significantly higher in corneal epithelium,stroma, conjepithelium. Trehalose &CQ induced antiviral response expression so may help in prophylaxis

Conclusions: Ocular surface has a risk of infection by aerosolised virus due to ACE2. However, topical treatments which induce potent anti-viral response may offer means of prophylaxis

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