Genotoxic risks in patients with COVID-19

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused numerous deaths worldwide. Despite the mitigation of infection manifestations in recent months, the possible consequences of the epidemic remain difficult to predict. Genotoxicity and subsequent development of neoplasms are possible outcomes. This review summarises the data on these questions. Studies from several countries have reported increased levels of DNA damage in nucleated blood cells of patients with severe forms of COVID-19 infection. The level of DNA damage can be used as a prognostic factor for the disease outcome. It is considered that SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins play a crucial role in DNA damage; however, the virus also inhibits the DNA repair system. Co-morbidities and use of antiviral drugs may also contribute to DNA damage in patients with COVID-19.