SARS-CoV-2 host receptors ACE2 and CD147 (BSG) are present on human oocytes and blastocysts

Abstract

Purpose: To visualize SARS-CoV-2 host receptors ACE2 and CD147 on human oocytes and blastocysts. Methods: Immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy on human primary oocytes and pre (5 days post fertilization (dpf5) and (dpf6))- and peri (dpf7)-implantation blastocysts donated to research. Results: SARS-CoV-2 host receptors ACE2 and CD147 are present on the membrane of trophectoderm, epiblast and hypoblast cells in human blastocysts. CD147 is also present on the oolemma. Conclusion: Theoretically, the earliest stages of embryonic development may be vulnerable for SARS-CoV-2 infection.