Currently submitted to: JMIR Preprints
Date Submitted: Jun 18, 2020
Open Peer Review Period: Jun 18, 2020 - Jun 3, 2021
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SARS-CoV-2 Biology Insights, Part III. The COVID-19 latency hypotheses and the fertility question.
ABSTRACT
Background:
As already reviewed in Part I, SARS-CoV-2 Spike is optimized for infection of multiple cell types, including immune cells. Accordingly, as reviewed in Part II, it can generate a systemic persistent infection.
Objective:
Now, two questions are addressed. First, whether it can be discarded that SARS-CoV-2 might remain as a latent infection to be reactivated by a stress years later. Second, whether it can or not be transmitted to descendants.
Methods:
A literature review was done through Google searches in order to know, first, if ss(+)RNA virus can establish latent infections. Then, regarding partially known mechanisms to do so. Third, wondering whether SARS-CoV-2 has the necessary elements to establish a latent infection using mechanisms similar to the ones previously reported. Apart from that, it was also searched whether there were reports of SARS-CoV-2 in semen, maternal transmission or fertility issues.
Results:
An hypotheses regarding COVID-19 latency is raised. The question regarding fertility is unanswered.
Conclusions:
There is plenty of work to be done. In the meantime, as will be discussed in Part V Viewpoint, it is a good idea to make an effort to stay uninfected if possible, particularly for the young generations.
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