SARS-CoV-2 targets the liver and manipulates glucose metabolism

Trends Mol Med. 2023 Sep;29(9):681-683. doi: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.06.001. Epub 2023 Jun 7.

Abstract

A recent publication by Barreto and colleagues showed that SARS-CoV-2 directly triggers hyperglycemia by infecting hepatocytes and inducing phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK)-dependent gluconeogenesis. Here, we discuss the biological importance of these findings, including the hepatic tropism of SARS-CoV-2. We also comment on the clinical implications of the bidirectional connection between COVID-19 and noncommunicable diseases.

Keywords: SARS-CoV-2; glucose metabolism; liver.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19* / metabolism
  • Gluconeogenesis
  • Glucose / metabolism
  • Hepatocytes / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Liver / metabolism
  • Phosphoenolpyruvate Carboxykinase (GTP) / metabolism
  • SARS-CoV-2* / metabolism

Substances

  • Phosphoenolpyruvate Carboxykinase (GTP)
  • Glucose